Improving Cost Accounting and Financial Performance Measurement in Pulp and Paper Manufacturing Enterprises

This study examines theoretical and methodological approaches to product cost determination, production cost accounting, and financial performance measurement in pulp and paper manufacturing enterprises. Particular attention is given to the multistage nature of production, raw material consumption, technological losses, energy utilization, and the allocation of manufacturing overheads among different product categories. The study explores the applicability of process costing and standard costing and proposes an integrated approach to cost classification, responsibility-center accounting, and financial performance analysis. The methodological framework draws on relevant accounting regulations of the Republic of Uzbekistan and International Financial Reporting Standards, particularly IAS 2, Inventories. A conceptual model is developed to link production processes, cost accumulation, finished goods valuation, and financial results. The findings suggest that process-based analytical accounting, resource-consumption standards, systematic variance analysis, and more appropriate overhead allocation bases can improve cost information reliability and strengthen managerial control. The numerical example is illustrative and does not represent verified financial data from an actual enterprise. The proposed approach may provide a methodological basis for improving cost management, inventory valuation, and profitability analysis in pulp and paper manufacturing.