Fastmarkets and NOREXECO Launch Innovative European Pulp Futures Contracts

Innovation in the Pulp Market

On December 10, 2025, in an ambitious stride towards transforming the pulp industry, Fastmarkets and NOREXECO unveiled two groundbreaking futures contracts dedicated to the European pulp market. These contracts, which mark a significant milestone in pulp pricing, encompass two key categories: Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft (NBSK) and Bleached Eucalyptus Kraft (BEK). Designed with the current market dynamics in mind, the contracts aim to provide improved tools for pricing risk management amid fluctuating pulp prices.

The introduction of these contracts is especially pertinent considering the recent volatility in pulp prices, a situation that calls for more effective and transparent pricing mechanisms. The preceding futures contracts were tied to the PIX benchmark index, reflecting gross pricing levels. In contrast, the newly launched contracts are structured around spot price levels, thus enhancing their role as crucial benchmarks in the sector.

“Today signifies a pivotal moment in the evolution of the European pulp market,” stated Matt Graves, Senior Vice President of Fastmarkets. “By closely aligning with the dynamics of net price levels, we are providing market participants a robust tool for more effective risk management, allowing them to adapt to evolving price trends.”

Notably, this initiative expands Fastmarkets’ price coverage globally, supplementing existing assessments for North America and China, and providing a more comprehensive and transparent view of the global market.

Stein Ole Larsen, CEO of NOREXECO, further emphasized the importance of these contracts, stressing their role in providing necessary liquidity and allowing operators and arbitrators enhanced opportunities in the market. This is vital for reinforcing trust and stability within the industry.

Additionally, Przemek Koralewski, Global Market Development Director at Fastmarkets, expressed excitement about the collaboration with NOREXECO: “This launch directly responds to the market's need for sophisticated risk management tools and underscores our commitment to delivering solutions that meet the industry’s evolving needs. It’s a notable advancement for the sector.”

The launch of these contracts falls within a broader context of successful collaborations between Fastmarkets and NOREXECO, which includes previously established contracts focusing on net prices for NBSK and BHKP in China, as well as recycled carton for containers. This ongoing partnership highlights the continuous effort to adapt to market demands across various regions.

Fastmarkets, known for its market risk analysis and data services, is a reputable provider of vital pricing information across agricultural, forest, metals, and energy sectors globally. Established in 1865, Fastmarkets continues to enhance market transparency and support actionable insights for its clients through reliable data and analysis.

NOREXECO, a regulated market for pulp and paper futures, operates under a license from the Norwegian Ministry of Finance, offering electronic trading and a modern platform designed to streamline transactions. The development of these futures contracts addresses not only the current needs of the pulp market but sets a precedent for future innovations in trading practices within the sector.

For further inquiries on how Fastmarkets can support your trading needs, please connect through their dedicated contact channels. This launch not only marks a significant leap in pulp market capabilities but also emphasizes the evolving landscape and the necessity for robust risk management strategies in today’s dynamic environment.