One Board, Many Names: How Paperboard is Called Around the World

Introduction

In the global paper and packaging industry, paperboard is one of the most widely traded and versatile materials. Yet, depending on where you are, the same product might be called by very different names. For buyers, sellers, and manufacturers working across markets, understanding these local variations is more than just a linguistic detail — it’s a business necessity. Using the right terminology not only avoids costly misunderstandings, but also demonstrates respect for regional practices and helps build stronger relationships with customers.

At China Paper, we encounter this every day when working with clients around the world. The differences are fascinating, and they highlight how paperboard has become part of local business culture in many regions.

Brazil

In Brazil, Triplex is commonly used to describe what is internationally known as White Board (FBB), while Duplex refers to Grey Back Board (GD2).

Guatemala

Local trade often uses names like Texcote for White Board and Husky for Coated Art Card.

USA & Canada

The North American market is dominated by abbreviations. SBS (Solid Bleached Board) stands for a premium White Board grade, while CRB (Coated Recycled Board) refers to Grey Back Board. You’ll also often hear Cupstock or LPB when speaking about Liquid Packaging Board.

Middle East & India

Here, Ivory Board is a popular term for White Board, while Duplex Board generally points to Grey Back.

Southeast Asia

In countries like Thailand, Art Card is the common name for Coated Art Card, while in Vietnam and Indonesia, Ivory Board and Duplex Board are widely used in everyday trade.

When we summarize all these variations, the picture becomes clearer:

White Board = Triplex / Texcote / Ivory Board / FBB / SBS

Grey Back = Duplex / WLC / CRB

Art Card = Husky / Art Card

For international trade, it’s important to recognize that these names all describe similar board grades, even if the terminology changes from one country to another.

Conclusion

At China Paper, we always use a dual approach: local names to ensure our clients feel understood, and international standards to keep technical communication clear and precise. This balance helps us move projects forward quickly while maintaining professionalism across every market.

Your turn: What’s the local name for paperboard in your country? We’d love to hear your version!