Cepi's preliminary statistics for 2025 show that European paper and cardboard production fell by 1.5% to 77.6 million tonnes. The sector continues to face a weak economic environment, increasing regulatory pressure and international trade tensions.

Against this backdrop, paper and paperboard for packaging confirm their key structural role. In 2025, 63.9% of total production was destined for packaging, a further increase compared to 2024. The production of packaging paper and paperboard remained virtually stable (+0.2%), while graphic paper grades again declined sharply.

There are clear differences within the packaging segment. Paper and cardboard for corrugated transport packaging rose by 1.7% and also remained relatively stable on the demand side (-0.2%). Cardboard for consumer and retail packaging, on the other hand, saw a 5.6% decline in production and a 3.5% decline in demand. Paper for bags and wrappers showed slight growth.

Packaging flows also confirm their central role in recycling. Although the total use of paper for recycling fell by 1.3%, the use of old corrugated cardboard and kraft flows rose by 1.7%. Packaging thus forms the backbone of the European paper recycling system.

Total pulp production fell by 1.2%, but market pulp rose by 2.1%, indicating more stable market conditions.

In summary, the figures show that, despite economic headwinds, packaging paper and cardboard remain the mainstay of the European paper industry — with transport packaging as a stable driver and recycling as the foundation of the circular value chain.

IBE BVI members can request the CEPI Preliminary Statistics 2025-European pulp & paper industry on simple request: click here