Paper and packaging board prices may face cost pressure through March 2027, T. Kishan Singh, President of the Federation of Paper Traders Associations (FPTA), has warned traders. In a message dated 17 October 2026 and reported by The Pulp and Paper Times on 18 October, Singh said the pressure on paper board prices could persist in the coming months, potentially extending through March 2027.
What Is Driving Paper Board Prices Higher?
Singh cited several cost drivers: geopolitical tensions, coal availability constraints, rising energy costs, sharply higher international freight charges and rising Brent crude prices. He also pointed to recent mill price revisions and said inventory levels at several mills appear to be falling.
Future price movements, he said, will depend on raw material availability, energy costs, freight, geopolitics and the balance between demand and supply.
What Has the FPTA Advised Traders to Do?
The FPTA president advised traders to plan inventories early and to reconfirm prices, material availability and delivery schedules with mills. He also asked them to exercise caution while quoting prices when accepting long-term orders.
Why Does the Timing Matter?
The message was issued around Dussehra and Vijayadashami, as notebook makers and other seasonal units begin preparations for the upcoming season, according to the report.
Market Reaction and Industry Response
The FPTA message is a trader-body advisory and the source report did not include specific price levels, stock-market reaction or responses from mills. Those details are not reported here.
What Happens Next?
Traders and converters will watch for further mill price revisions and any change in coal availability, energy costs and freight rates. The FPTA has indicated that the outlook runs to March 2027, so clarity on those inputs will shape pricing in the months ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who warned about paper board price pressure?
T. Kishan Singh, President of the Federation of Paper Traders Associations, in a message to traders dated 17 October 2026.
How long could the pressure last?
Singh said it could potentially extend through March 2027, depending on raw material availability, energy costs, freight, geopolitics and demand-supply balance.
What should traders do?
Plan inventories early, reconfirm prices and delivery schedules with mills, and be cautious when quoting prices for long-term orders.
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