Key Insights
The global wood-based modal fiber market is projected for robust expansion, driven by increasing demand across diverse sectors and a compelling Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7%. Key growth catalysts include the rising preference for sustainable and eco-friendly textiles, complemented by modal fiber's inherent qualities of softness, drape, and moisture absorption. The apparel and textile industry remains the dominant application, fueled by consumer demand for comfortable, high-quality clothing. Significant growth is also anticipated in healthcare (personal care products), automotive interiors, and other specialized applications. While the viscose segment currently leads in market share, lyocell and modal segments are experiencing accelerated growth due to their superior sustainability profiles. Despite potential restraints from supply chain complexities and raw material price volatility, the market outlook is strongly positive, with considerable growth opportunities identified in developing economies, particularly in India and Southeast Asia, where rising disposable incomes are boosting demand for apparel and related products. Leading players, including Lenzing and Asahi Kasei Corporation, are strategically investing in capacity expansion and technological innovation to address escalating global demand.

Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Market Size (In Billion)

Geographically, North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific exhibit strong market presence. China and India are identified as key growth engines. The North American market benefits from established textile industries and high consumer spending, while Europe is characterized by a strong emphasis on sustainable materials and environmental consciousness. The Asia Pacific region’s vast population and expanding middle class are significant contributors to its market potential. Based on an estimated market size of 1162 million in the base year 2025, and a CAGR of 7%, the market is poised for substantial growth. This projection accounts for continuous market expansion and the aforementioned influencing factors.

Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Company Market Share

Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Analysis: Key Trends, Opportunities, and Forecast (2025-2033)
This comprehensive report delivers in-depth analysis of the global Wood-Based Modal Fiber market, providing actionable insights for stakeholders across the value chain. It covers market dynamics, competitive landscapes, emerging trends, and future opportunities within this rapidly evolving sector. With a detailed forecast from 2025 to 2033 (base year 2025), this report is an essential resource for businesses aiming to navigate and capitalize on the growth potential of the Wood-Based Modal Fiber market. The findings are supported by extensive market research, including historical data (2019-2024) and projected figures. The global market size is estimated at 1162 million in 2025, with significant expansion anticipated.
Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Market Dynamics & Concentration
The Wood-Based Modal Fiber market is characterized by a moderate level of concentration, with key players such as Lenzing, Asahi Kasei Corporation, Bracell, Sappi, Grasim Industries Limited (Aditya Birla Group), Aoyang Technology, Sandong Yamei, and Rayonier Advanced Materials holding significant market share. However, the market also features a number of smaller, specialized players. Market share dynamics are influenced by factors such as innovation in fiber production, the development of sustainable sourcing practices, and strategic mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity. The number of M&A deals in the sector has seen a xx% increase over the past five years, reflecting the consolidation trend within the industry. Further, regulatory frameworks concerning environmental sustainability and responsible sourcing are driving innovation and shaping the competitive landscape. The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly textiles fuels the growth of wood-based modal fibers as a substitute for conventional materials. End-user preferences for high-quality, comfortable, and sustainable apparel are also key factors driving market growth.
- Market Concentration: Moderate, with a few dominant players and several smaller competitors.
- Innovation Drivers: Sustainable sourcing, enhanced fiber properties, and cost-effective production techniques.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Increasing focus on environmental sustainability and responsible sourcing influences market dynamics.
- Product Substitutes: Competition from other synthetic and natural fibers.
- End-User Trends: Growing demand for sustainable, high-quality, and comfortable textiles in various applications.
- M&A Activities: xx M&A deals recorded in the past five years, indicating industry consolidation.
Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The Wood-Based Modal Fiber market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly textiles is a major catalyst, with a projected CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). The market penetration of wood-based modal fibers in various applications, particularly in apparel & textile and healthcare, is also on the rise. Technological advancements in fiber production are leading to improved fiber properties, such as enhanced softness, drape, and durability. Consumer preferences are shifting towards high-quality, sustainable, and comfortable textiles, benefiting the market. Competitive dynamics are characterized by innovation, strategic partnerships, and a focus on differentiating product offerings through sustainable and ethical practices. The rising global population and increasing disposable incomes, particularly in developing economies, further fuel market growth. Technological disruptions, such as advancements in spinning and finishing technologies, are also enhancing the market potential of wood-based modal fibers.
Leading Markets & Segments in Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market
The Apparel & Textile segment holds the largest market share, driven by the growing demand for comfortable and sustainable clothing. Within this segment, the Modal type of wood-based fiber dominates due to its superior properties. Asia-Pacific is currently the leading region, benefiting from strong economic growth, a large population, and burgeoning textile industries. Key growth drivers in the region include favorable government policies promoting sustainable textile manufacturing and significant investments in infrastructure supporting the textile industry. Europe follows as a significant market due to its strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental protection.
- Dominant Region: Asia-Pacific
- Key Drivers: Strong economic growth, large population, favorable government policies, and robust infrastructure.
- Dominant Application Segment: Apparel & Textile
- Key Drivers: Increasing demand for comfortable and sustainable clothing.
- Dominant Fiber Type: Modal
- Key Drivers: Superior properties compared to other types of wood-based fibers.
Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations have focused on enhancing fiber properties, such as improved softness, drape, and durability. New applications of wood-based modal fibers are being explored in areas like automotive interiors and high-performance sportswear. Companies are competing on the basis of sustainable sourcing practices, innovative production technologies, and the development of value-added products.
Key Drivers of Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Growth
Several key factors drive the growth of the Wood-Based Modal Fiber market. The increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly textiles is a primary driver. Technological advancements in fiber production, leading to improved fiber properties and cost efficiencies, also contribute to market expansion. Favorable government regulations and policies promoting sustainable manufacturing practices further support market growth.
Challenges in the Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Market
The Wood-Based Modal Fiber market faces challenges such as fluctuations in raw material prices, the availability of sustainable raw materials, and intense competition from other fiber types. Environmental regulations and potential supply chain disruptions also pose significant challenges.
Emerging Opportunities in Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market
Emerging opportunities include expanding into new applications, such as high-performance textiles and medical textiles. Strategic partnerships and collaborations between fiber producers and textile manufacturers could lead to significant market expansion. Technological breakthroughs in fiber production, such as advancements in spinning and finishing techniques, also offer significant opportunities for growth.
Leading Players in the Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Sector
- Lenzing
- Asahi Kasei Corporation
- Bracell
- Sappi
- Grasim Industries Limited (Aditya Birla Group)
- Aoyang Technology
- Sandong Yamei
- Rayonier Advanced Materials
Key Milestones in Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Industry
- 2020: Lenzing launches a new sustainable modal fiber production process.
- 2022: Asahi Kasei Corporation invests in expanding its modal fiber production capacity.
- 2023: A major M&A deal involving two key players in the industry is announced. (Specific details will be included in the full report).
Strategic Outlook for Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Market
The Wood-Based Modal Fiber market is poised for continued growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable materials and technological advancements. Strategic opportunities exist in developing innovative products, expanding into new applications, and establishing strong supply chains focused on sustainability. Companies that successfully leverage these opportunities are well-positioned to capture significant market share.
Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Viscose
- 1.2. Modal
- 1.3. Lyocell
- 1.4. Cupro
- 1.5. Other Types
-
2. Application
- 2.1. Apparel & Textile
- 2.2. Healthcare (Including Personal Care)
- 2.3. Automotive & Transportation
- 2.4. Other Applications
Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Asia Pacific
- 1.1. China
- 1.2. India
- 1.3. Japan
- 1.4. South Korea
- 1.5. Rest of Asia Pacific
-
2. North America
- 2.1. United States
- 2.2. Canada
- 2.3. Mexico
-
3. Europe
- 3.1. Germany
- 3.2. United Kingdom
- 3.3. France
- 3.4. Italy
- 3.5. Rest of Europe
-
4. Rest of the World
- 4.1. South America
- 4.2. Middle East and Africa

Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Regional Market Share

Geographic Coverage of Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market
Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2020-2034 |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Estimated Year | 2026 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2034 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 7% from 2020-2034 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. ; Rising Usage from Textile Industry; Other Drivers
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1 ; Availability of Substitutes like Synthetic Fibers
- 3.3.2 Cotton
- 3.3.3 and Wool; Other Restraints
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Growing Demand from Textile Industry
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Viscose
- 5.1.2. Modal
- 5.1.3. Lyocell
- 5.1.4. Cupro
- 5.1.5. Other Types
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.2.1. Apparel & Textile
- 5.2.2. Healthcare (Including Personal Care)
- 5.2.3. Automotive & Transportation
- 5.2.4. Other Applications
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Asia Pacific
- 5.3.2. North America
- 5.3.3. Europe
- 5.3.4. Rest of the World
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Asia Pacific Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. Viscose
- 6.1.2. Modal
- 6.1.3. Lyocell
- 6.1.4. Cupro
- 6.1.5. Other Types
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.2.1. Apparel & Textile
- 6.2.2. Healthcare (Including Personal Care)
- 6.2.3. Automotive & Transportation
- 6.2.4. Other Applications
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7. North America Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.1.1. Viscose
- 7.1.2. Modal
- 7.1.3. Lyocell
- 7.1.4. Cupro
- 7.1.5. Other Types
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.2.1. Apparel & Textile
- 7.2.2. Healthcare (Including Personal Care)
- 7.2.3. Automotive & Transportation
- 7.2.4. Other Applications
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8. Europe Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.1.1. Viscose
- 8.1.2. Modal
- 8.1.3. Lyocell
- 8.1.4. Cupro
- 8.1.5. Other Types
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.2.1. Apparel & Textile
- 8.2.2. Healthcare (Including Personal Care)
- 8.2.3. Automotive & Transportation
- 8.2.4. Other Applications
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9. Rest of the World Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9.1.1. Viscose
- 9.1.2. Modal
- 9.1.3. Lyocell
- 9.1.4. Cupro
- 9.1.5. Other Types
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.2.1. Apparel & Textile
- 9.2.2. Healthcare (Including Personal Care)
- 9.2.3. Automotive & Transportation
- 9.2.4. Other Applications
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10. Competitive Analysis
- 10.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2025
- 10.2. Company Profiles
- 10.2.1 Lenzing
- 10.2.1.1. Overview
- 10.2.1.2. Products
- 10.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.2 Asahi Kasei Corporation
- 10.2.2.1. Overview
- 10.2.2.2. Products
- 10.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.3 Bracell
- 10.2.3.1. Overview
- 10.2.3.2. Products
- 10.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.4 Sappi*List Not Exhaustive
- 10.2.4.1. Overview
- 10.2.4.2. Products
- 10.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.5 Grasim Industries Limited (Aditya Birla Group)
- 10.2.5.1. Overview
- 10.2.5.2. Products
- 10.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.6 Aoyang Technology
- 10.2.6.1. Overview
- 10.2.6.2. Products
- 10.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.7 Sandong Yamei
- 10.2.7.1. Overview
- 10.2.7.2. Products
- 10.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.8 Rayonier Advanced Materials
- 10.2.8.1. Overview
- 10.2.8.2. Products
- 10.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.1 Lenzing
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Breakdown (million, %) by Region 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: Asia Pacific Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 3: Asia Pacific Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 4: Asia Pacific Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 5: Asia Pacific Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 6: Asia Pacific Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 7: Asia Pacific Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 8: North America Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 9: North America Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 10: North America Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 11: North America Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 12: North America Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 13: North America Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 14: Europe Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 15: Europe Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 16: Europe Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 17: Europe Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 18: Europe Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 19: Europe Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 20: Rest of the World Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 21: Rest of the World Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 22: Rest of the World Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 23: Rest of the World Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 24: Rest of the World Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 25: Rest of the World Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: China Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: India Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: Japan Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: South Korea Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: Rest of Asia Pacific Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: United States Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: Canada Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: Mexico Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 19: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 20: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 21: Germany Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 22: United Kingdom Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 23: France Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 24: Italy Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 25: Rest of Europe Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 26: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 27: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 28: Global Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 29: South America Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 30: Middle East and Africa Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 7%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market?
Key companies in the market include Lenzing, Asahi Kasei Corporation, Bracell, Sappi*List Not Exhaustive, Grasim Industries Limited (Aditya Birla Group), Aoyang Technology, Sandong Yamei, Rayonier Advanced Materials.
3. What are the main segments of the Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market?
The market segments include Type, Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 1162 million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
; Rising Usage from Textile Industry; Other Drivers.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Growing Demand from Textile Industry.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
; Availability of Substitutes like Synthetic Fibers. Cotton. and Wool; Other Restraints.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Wood-Based Modal Fiber Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence

