According to Bloomberg, the world can face a shortage of toilet paper already in the near future.
Back in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic created an unprecedented demand for toilet paper. Under the circumstances, pulp producers can substantially reduce shipments of raw materials, experts suggest.
Bloomberg analysts warn that the world may face toilet paper problems within the next few years. They pinpoint surging shipping demand and the global shortage of cargo vessels. The world’s largest supplier of pulp, Suzano SA, noted that delays in the supply of wood pulp came due to the Suez Canal blockage. Consequently, significant disruption in production will lead to a shortage of toilet paper in the retail trade.
During the pandemic, consumers stockpiled toilet paper and other household items. Experts are concerned that if the coronavirus situation gets worse, toilet paper will vanish from the shelves again. They assume that supply disruptions will increase even more. Companies that do not have stockpiles of raw materials are expected to receive the first blow. At the same time, store operations in some European countries will be limited due to yet another COVID-19 wave. This will cause a stir among consumers, experts believe.
Under such circumstances, the cost of toilet paper can escalate sharply amid significant shipment disruption. In addition, ships blocking in ports, including outside the Suez Canal, will only increase shipping costs overseas.
