Navigator Raises Uncoated Paper Prices by $30 Per Ton Globally

Global Price Adjustment

Navigator's price increase applies across its full range of UWF paper grades sold in overseas markets. The Portuguese producer cited ongoing cost pressures and the need to restore margins as the primary drivers behind the adjustment.

Industry demand has remained solid, with order books strengthening across UWF producers. This demand strength provides the market conditions necessary for price increases to hold.

North American Market Treatment

Navigator is implementing a separate pricing structure for North American customers. The 5-8% increase will vary by product grade and will take effect for shipments from March 1 onwards. This allows current orders and contracts to complete at existing pricing.

Cost Factors Behind the Increase

Several input costs have risen faster than paper prices in recent periods:

• Energy costs remain elevated compared to historical norms
• Raw material prices have increased
• Logistics and transportation expenses continue rising
• Labor costs reflect tight employment markets

These cost increases have compressed margins across the UWF sector, making price recovery necessary for sustained profitability.

Industry Implications

Navigator's announcement may signal broader pricing action across the UWF segment. When a major producer successfully implements increases, competitors often follow with similar adjustments. Market observers expect other European and global UWF manufacturers to evaluate their own pricing in the coming weeks.

The ability to raise prices reflects underlying demand strength in certain paper grades, even as the industry overall faces structural challenges in graphic paper categories.