The increase follows Sdras 18-21-per-tonne increase for its northern birch and eucalyptus pulp, which rose to 291 per tonne earlier this month (PrintWeek, 5 April).

"The background to the situation is the improved market situation for paper products," said Sdra Cell marketing director Ulf Edman, who added that the increase also marked a rise in demand for pulp.

"Our stocks of pulp have reduced, and the supply/ demand balance has improved," he said.

The rise follows continued pressure on softwood pulp market prices, with spot supplies and deals drying up as prices have fallen.