INDA, the Association of the Nonwovens Fabrics Industry, has published the fifth edition of the annual North American Nonwovens Supply Report for its members.

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. The 64-page report offers 34 figures and 13 tables.

“This report is the benchmark for North American nonwovens supply information, including not only rolled goods information, but also material produced for internal consumption. It details the industry operating rate; an essential element for our members’ strategic planning and business investment decisions,” says Dave Rousse, INDA president.

The report — and the quarterly INDA Market Pulse and monthly Price Trends Summary — are provided to the 360-plus INDA member companies and associates as part of their membership.

New findings include:

• In 2017, North American nonwoven capacity increased to 4.96 million tons, a net increase of 2.5% (122 thousand tons) over 2016. 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 five years (2012-2017) an additional 663 thousand tons of net capacity have been added to the North American market, with the drylaid forming process accounting for 58% of those tons.
• North American imports and exports, in tonnage, declined 2.9% and 2.3% respectively year-over-year. However, the trend downward of exports and upward in imports continue, as over the last five years exports have declined 7.9% annually and imports have increased 10.4% annually. Even with the significant shifts in North American trade dynamics, nonwovens tend to stay where they are produced, with the net trade balance (imports less exports) accounting for only 4.1% of the region’s capacity.

“It is INDA’s objective to provide valuable data and actionable industry information. As always, the increasing participation of nonwoven producers – both members and non-members – providing their insights and results makes our success possible,” says Brad Kalil, director of Market Research and Statistics, INDA.