In 2017, North American nonwovens capacity increased by 2.5% to 4.96 million tons. This growth figure accounts for not only the addition of new lines, but also machine productivity increases and line closures (11 in 2017) to arrive at a net increase growth figure. Through the last 5 years (2012-2017) an additional 663,000 tons of net capacity have been added to the North American market, with the drylaid forming process accounting for 58%.
The Association of the Nonwovens Fabrics Industry (INDA), Cary, NC/USA, has published the 5th edition of the annual North American Nonwovens Supply Report. Based on extensive research, producer surveys and interviews with industry leaders, the report provides an overall view of North American supply, including the key metrics of capacity, production and operating rates, in addition to regional trade. New in this year’s report is the inclusion of production by end-use markets and regional trade figures in dollar value, in addition to the previously reported tonnage.
North American imports and exports, in tonnage, declined 2.9% and 2.3% respectively year-on-year. However, the downward trend of exports and upward trend in imports continue, as over the last 5 years exports have declined 7.9% annually and imports have increased 10.4% annually.
For further information: www.inda.org