The paper sector experienced a 2010 of growth. But only thanks to the export boom

Despite Italy and the limitations of its national system, the Italian paper industry is growing. In 2010, production recorded an increase of 6,9% with almost 9 million tons produced, while the total turnover was over 6,8 billion euros (+14%) mainly thanks to exports, which increased by 14% in by volume and 18% by value. In the presence of a national demand which also in 2010 was confirmed as not very dynamic, the paper mills exported almost 40% of their production, the highest quota ever reached. “The strong foreign component – ​​explains Paolo Culicchi, President of Assocarta – is also evident in the publishing, paper, printing and converting production chain which in 2010 recorded an increase in turnover of 3,3% (36 billion Euros) maintaining a positive balance of trade which grew from 1,8 to 2,9 billion Euros between 2002 and 2009”. Positive signals also in the first quarter of 2011 which show a general trend improvement in volumes (+3,2%) but with significant differences between the various sectors, while turnover (+15%) reflects the need for paper mills to recover from the pressing increases in fibrous raw materials which continue to exert strong pressure on margins. The issue of the cost of energy is also increasingly complex to solve, which for Italian paper mills can account for 30% of the total cost of production.