1 Global Non-Wood Pulp Market Scope
The global non-wood pulp market is poised for steady growth in the coming years, with a projected value of $15,466.13 million by 2025. This growth is anticipated to occur at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.03% from 2025 to 2030. Non-wood pulp, derived from non-lignocellulosic plant materials such as straw, bamboo, and cotton, offers a sustainable alternative to traditional wood-based pulp. This type of pulp is increasingly being utilized in various applications, including tissue paper and book paper, due to its environmental benefits and unique properties.
Figure Global Non-Wood Pulp Market Revenue and CAGR 2025-2030
2 Non-Wood Pulp Market Dynamics
2.1 Drivers Analysis
The growth of the non-wood pulp market is driven by several key factors. Firstly, the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products is a significant driver. As consumers and governments worldwide become more environmentally conscious, there is a growing preference for products made from renewable and non-wood sources. This shift in consumer behavior and regulatory support has encouraged the adoption of non-wood pulp in various industries.
Secondly, the rising global population and economic growth, particularly in emerging markets like China and India, have led to an increased demand for paper and paperboard products. These regions are experiencing rapid urbanization and industrialization, which in turn is driving the need for more paper products, thus boosting the demand for non-wood pulp.
2.2 Limitations Analysis
One of the primary challenges is the high production costs associated with non-wood pulp. The raw materials and processing technologies required for non-wood pulp production can be more expensive compared to traditional wood pulp. Additionally, the storage and transportation of non-wood pulp fibers can be problematic due to issues like color change and potential fire hazards, which can affect the quality and availability of the product.
3 Non-Wood Pulp Market Technological Innovations and M&A Analysis
Technological advancements are playing a crucial role in shaping the non-wood pulp market. Innovations in pulping processes and the development of new, more efficient technologies are helping to reduce production costs and improve the quality of non-wood pulp. For instance, the application of biotechnology in pulping processes, such as the use of enzymes for pre-treatment, has shown promise in enhancing the brightness and strength of the pulp while reducing the environmental impact of production.
Furthermore, the industry has witnessed several mergers and acquisitions in recent years. These strategic moves are aimed at consolidating market positions, expanding production capacities, and gaining access to new technologies and markets. For example, major players like Shandong Silver Hawk Chemical Fiber Co., Ltd. and Georgia-Pacific have been actively involved in such activities to strengthen their market presence and enhance their product offerings.
4 Global Non-Wood Pulp Market Analysis by Type
The global non-wood pulp market is expected to witness significant growth by 2025, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional wood-based pulp.
Straw Pulp: This type of pulp, derived mainly from grasses like wheat straw, is expected to have a market value of $5,702.11 million in 2025. Straw pulp is known for its high hemicellulose content, which makes it easy to beat and size, suitable for various paper products.
Bamboo Pulp: With a forecasted market value of $3,533.34 million, bamboo pulp is gaining popularity due to its sustainable sourcing and the unique properties of bamboo fibers. It is produced using methods like the sulfate and caustic soda processes, offering a balance between wood and grass fibers in terms of fiber morphology and length.
Hemp Pulp: Hemp pulp, made from hemp fibers, is projected to reach a market value of $1,051.31 million by 2025. It is particularly suitable for producing high-grade paper and industrial technology paper, such as banknote paper and cigarette paper, due to its high-quality fibers.
Cotton Pulp: This type of pulp, made from waste cotton and cotton linters, is expected to have a market value of $2,395.87 million in 2025. Cotton pulp contains pure cellulose and is known for its slender, elastic, tough, and durable fibers, making it ideal for high-quality paper products.
Table Global Non-Wood Pulp Market Size and Share by Type in 2025
|
Type |
Market Value (M USD) |
Market Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
|
Straw pulp |
5,702.11 |
36.87 |
|
Bamboo pulp |
3,533.34 |
22.85 |
|
Hemp pulp |
1,051.31 |
6.80 |
|
Cotton pulp |
2,395.87 |
15.49 |
5 Global Non-Wood Pulp Market Analysis by Application
The global non-wood pulp market is anticipated to expand significantly by 2025, driven by various applications that cater to the growing demand for sustainable and high-quality paper products.
Tissue Paper: This application segment is expected to dominate the market with a forecasted value of $10,459.52 million in 2025. Tissue paper, often made from a mixture of bagasse and bamboo, is known for its softness and faster fiber, making it ideal for high-quality paper products. The demand for tissue paper is driven by its widespread use in personal care, hygiene, and household applications.
Book Paper: The market for book paper, used primarily for printing writing books, is projected to reach $3,481.51 million by 2025. Non-wood pulp book paper is relatively environmentally friendly and offers slender and tough fibers, suitable for high-quality printing needs.
Table Global Non-Wood Pulp Market Size and Share by Application in 2025
|
Application |
Market Value (M USD) |
Market Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
|
Tissue paper |
10,459.52 |
67.63 |
|
Book paper |
3,481.51 |
22.51 |
6 Global Non-Wood Pulp Market Analysis by Region
North America is anticipated to maintain a steady growth in the non-wood pulp market, reaching a value of $3,641.68 million by 2025. The region’s growth rate is expected to be 1.69% in 2025, reflecting a mature market with established demand and supply chains. The consistent growth in North America can be attributed to the region’s robust economic activities and the presence of major players in the non-wood pulp industry. The United States, in particular, contributes significantly to the region’s market value due to its large consumer base and advanced industrial capabilities.
Europe’s non-wood pulp market is projected to grow to $3,333.65 million by 2025, with a growth rate of 2.23%. The region’s growth is supported by increasing environmental regulations that favor sustainable paper products and a growing awareness among consumers about the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions. Additionally, Europe’s diverse economic landscape, with developed markets in the west and emerging markets in the east, provides a broad base for the non-wood pulp industry to expand.
China stands out as the fastest-growing market among the three, with an expected market value of $4,890.70 million by 2025 and a growth rate of 2.74%. This significant growth is driven by China’s rapid industrialization, urbanization, and the government’s push for sustainable development practices. The increasing demand for paper products in various sectors, including packaging, publishing, and tissue paper-based consumer goods, is fueling the expansion of the non-wood pulp industry in China. Furthermore, China’s large agricultural sector provides a abundant supply of raw materials like bamboo and straw, which are crucial for non-wood pulp production.
Figure Global Non-Wood Pulp Revenue (M USD) by Region in 2025
7 Analysis of the Top 3 Companies in the Global Non-Wood Pulp Market
7.1 Shandong Silver Hawk Chemical Fiber Co., Ltd.
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Established in 1994, Shandong Silver Hawk Chemical Fiber Co., Ltd. is a leading privately-run enterprise in China. The company specializes in the purification and deep processing of natural cellulose and has diversified its operations into various industries including chemical, energy, textile, education, and tourism. With a global sales reach, Silver Hawk has established itself as a major player in the non-wood pulp market, particularly known for its innovation and quality products.
Products Offered:
Silver Hawk’s product range includes high-quality cotton linter pulp, which is widely used in the production of cellulosic man-made fibers, paper-making, pharmaceuticals, and chemical industries. The company offers specialty pulps with an average degree of polymerization ranging from 500 to 2700 and a brightness higher than 90% (ISO). These pulps are available in both sheets and rolls, catering to a broad spectrum of industrial applications. Silver Hawk’s commitment to quality and innovation has seen its products exported to over 20 countries worldwide, solidifying its position in the global market.
7.2 Georgia-Pacific
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Founded in 1927, Georgia-Pacific is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and operates primarily in North America. The company is known for producing and selling a variety of consumer products including handkerchief paper, wood paddles, toilet paper, packaging, construction materials, and chemicals. Georgia-Pacific’s extensive operations span across the United States, making it a significant contributor to the non-wood pulp market, especially in terms of volume and product diversity.
Products Offered:
Georgia-Pacific operates four world-class, non-integrated wood pulp mills, one cotton linters pulp mill, and one cotton converting plant, all located in the Southeastern United States. Their portfolio includes branded products such as Golden Isles® Fluff Pulp and CelluFLEX®, paper pulp, specialty cellulose, and customized fibers. These products are tailored to meet the specific needs of various industries, including paper manufacturing and specialty applications. Georgia-Pacific’s focus on quality and its broad product range have helped it maintain a strong presence in the market.
7.3 Hebei Jigao Chemical Fiber Co., Ltd.
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Hebei Jigao Chemical Fiber Co., Ltd. was established in 1988 and is based in China. The company is a comprehensive enterprise integrating chemical fiber pulp, viscose fiber, and thermoelectricity across the province of Jilin Chemical Fiber Group Corporation. Jigao’s operations are not limited to chemical fibers but also extend to related energy production, making it a significant player in the non-wood pulp industry.
Products Offered:
Jigao’s primary product is viscose fiber pulp, known under the brand “Dujuan”. This pulp is produced from Class II and Class III cotton linters using alkaline cooking, multi-stage bleaching, selection, and copying processes. The company offers both filament cotton pulp for viscose fiber and staple cotton pulp for viscose fiber, which are primarily used in the production of rayon, viscose staple fiber, industrial cellophane, civil cellophane, film, and other related fields. Jigao’s focus on quality and its diverse product offerings have helped it establish a strong foothold in the market.