Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Market Trends, Absolute Opportunity and Value Chain 2021-2031

Information may not be reliable

Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF): Introduction

• Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is produced with the help of a wide range of lignocellulosic fibers, including agrofibers, recycled wood, and other low-value wood by-products. MDF or dry-process fiberboards have fiber moisture content of less than 20% at the stage of forming and density ≥ 450 kg/m3. These boards are essentially produced under heat and pressure, with the addition of synthetic adhesives.
• Technical innovations and improvements in the production process have resulted in the manufacture of medium density fiberboards with superior durability and extended lifespan. Superior adhesion techniques with the use of low formaldehyde resins such as phenol-formaldehyde have led to product innovations in the industry.

Key Drivers and Restraints of Global Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Market

• Increase in demand for MDF in furniture and extensive use of these boards in building materials are factors driving the MDF market. This is prompting companies to increase production of these boards. Additionally, easy availability of raw materials is anticipated to boost the demand for MDF in the near future.
• The global MDF market is witnessing technological advancements. Companies are constantly striving to develop new and better ways to manufacture these fiberboards. Development of new manufacturing processes of MDF and applications is estimated to propel the market. However, the threat of substitution from high density fiberboards is projected to hamper the market.

Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF): Application Segment

• In terms of application, the global MDF market can be divided into cabinet; flooring; furniture; molding, door, and millwork; packaging system; and others. The furniture segment is estimated to expand at a considerable pace due to the rise in demand for these fiberboards in furniture applications across the globe.

Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF): Recent Developments

• In July 2019, ARAUCO signed an agreement to acquire Prime-Line Inc., a privately-held manufacturer of MDF molding and millwork products. The acquisition strengthened ARAUCO’s presence in the molding industry in North America.
• In January 2019, ARAUCO signed an agreement for the purchase of MASISA’s industrial assets in Mexico, which involved two industrial complexes located in Durango and Zitácuaro

Covid-19 Impact on Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Market

• The MDF market has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), COVID-19 impact has delayed or disrupted projects in the U.S. Around 16% of the projects in the U.S. are likely to experience a shortage of materials, equipment, or parts, while 11% of the projects are likely to experience a shortage of craft workers, including subcontractors. Around 18% of the projects are estimated to experience a shortage of government workers, while 8% of the projects are likely to be disrupted by an infected worker, who may have a potential to infect the worksite. Governments across the world have imposed complete lockdowns to combat the pandemic. Under these lockdowns, economic activities, except emergency services such as medical shops, supermarkets, hospitals, and a few online stores, have come to a temporary standstill. This has adversely affected the global demand for MDF.

Asia Pacific to Dominate Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Market

• In terms of region, the global MDF market can be divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa
• Asia Pacific is projected to constitute key share of the market during the forecast period. The MDF market in Asia Pacific is also likely to expand a considerable pace owing to the increase in demand for these fiberboards in furniture & building material applications in the region.
• Middle East & Africa is likely to be an attractive region of the global MDF market during the forecast period due to the rise in demand for these fiberboards in interior decoration applications in the region
• Consumption of MDF has been rising in China, owing to the significant growth of high-rise buildings in the country, since the last five years. According to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, 56 high-rise buildings (over 200 meters in height) were completed in the country in 2019.