In many ways, the first half of December represented a continuation of November on the French recovered paper market. Prices for most grades were unchanged and demand remained weak, except from Asian buyers, who were once again snapping up large volumes at attractive prices. In mid-December, however, there were first signs of a trend reversal, so recovered paper merchants are now looking ahead to the new year with mixed feelings.
Over the past few months, exports to Asia have helped merchants survive the weak demand in Europe. In December, significant volumes were once again being shipped to the Far East. The good demand in late November and early December led to another price hike for old corrugated containers on the Asian export market....
