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Our newsprint shipments declined slightly in 2004 compared to 2003. However, our exports increased by 4% as a result of better global demand for newsprint. In 2004, Bowater implemented two North American newsprint price increases and raised export prices as well. Overall, our newsprint prices rose 10% compared to 2003. We are implementing another newsprint price increase in North America this month.
Demand for coated mechanical papers in North America hit record levels in 2004, while demand for specialty grades, including supercalendered papers, was also strong. Bowater implemented two price increases in coated grades as well as various specialty grades. Overall, our prices in these grades increased 8% during 2004. We are currently implementing price increases again in these grades as demand continues to strengthen.
Global market pulp shipments reached record levels again in 2004, rising 6% above 2003 levels. Pulp demand continues to improve as the paper markets recover. Overall, our prices rose by 12% last year. Additional increases have already occurred in 2005.
Our lumber markets enjoyed excellent growth in 2004, spurred by robust demand for new housing throughout the United States. Despite strong demand, the countervailing and anti-dumping duties placed by the U.S. government on softwood lumber from Canada continued to dampen the financial results for this product.
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