Europe’s Paper Industry Faces Slow Decline as CEPI Warns of Growing Import Pressure and Mill Closures.

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Europe’s paper industry is experiencing a slow but steady decline, prompting the Confederation of European Paper Industries (Cepi) to urge EU policymakers to take immediate action before more manufacturing capacity is lost. According to Cepi’s latest industry report, European paper and board production fell 1.6% in 2025, with further declines already recorded in early 2026, while imports reached a record share of EU paper consumption. The organization warns that rising production costs, burdensome regulations, and increasing competition from lower-cost foreign producers are eroding Europe’s global competitiveness despite significant investments in sustainability and recycling. Graphic paper demand continues to weaken as digitalization accelerates, while mill closures and shrinking exports raise concerns about the long-term future of one of Europe’s most important manufacturing industries. Cepi is calling for stronger trade protections, pro-investment policies, and regulatory reforms to help prevent further industrial erosion and preserve the region’s paper, packaging, and pulp manufacturing base.

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July 7, 2026 at 10:54 AM