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North American nonwovens capacity quadruple in 25 years

02 Jul '16

2 min read

From 1990 to 2015, North American nonwovens capacity has increased an average of 5.4 per cent per year, outpacing US real GDP, which grew at 2.4 per cent per year over the same period. During this time the industry has more than quadrupled in size, adding over two million tonnes, according to INDA's (the Association of the Nonwovens Fabrics Industry) annual report.

“This report is the benchmark for North American capacity, production, and supply information. It brings the clearest view available of the all-important supply/demand balance in the major nonwoven process categories. This is the only report we are aware of that publishes an industry operating rate; an essential element for our members' strategic planning and business decisions,” said Dave Rousse, INDA President.

The North American Nonwovens Supply Report for INDA's members, says in 2015, North America's nonwoven capacity increased to 2.98 million tonnes, (2.7 per cent annual growth compared to the previous year's growth of 1.2 per cent). Suppressed investments due to the recession, (2007 through 2009), subdued capacity growth through the end of 2014, producing a minimal additional 110,000 tonnes in North America, at an annual increase of 1.3 per cent.

“It appears accelerated growth in North American nonwoven capacity investments will continue through the next few years,” said Brad Kalil, Director of Market Research and Statistics, INDA.

Imports and exports are an important consideration in supply. North America receives imports (294,000 tonnes) comparable to ten per cent of the region's capacity; while exporting 163,000 tonnes. Contrary to industry assumptions, imports from overseas into North America are not substantial, accounting for — on a net/net basis — just 4 per cent of the regions nonwoven capacity.

“It is INDA's objective to continue to provide and improve the quality of data and industry information. I continue to be pleased with the increasing participation of nonwoven producers completing the survey and our ability to identify new or previously unreported nonwovens capacity,” said Kalil. (SH)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India

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