Total U.S. Printing-Writing Paper Shipments Essentially Flat in April 2022

Total U.S. printing-writing paper inventory levels in April 2022 increased one percent when compared to March 2022.

May 26, 2022 - The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) released its April 2022 Printing-Writing Monthly report. According to the report, total printing-writing paper shipments remained essentially flat (+0.3 percent) in April compared to April 2021.

U.S. purchases of total printing-writing papers increased two percent in April compared to the same month last year.

Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased one percent when compared to March 2022.

• U.S. purchases of uncoated free sheet (UFS) papers in April increased one percent compared to last April while the inventory level increased one percent compared to March 2022. UFS imports increased 12 percent while exports decreased 26 percent in March 2022.
• Coated free sheet (CFS) paper shipments increased five percent compared to April 2021 while the inventory level increased two percent compared to March 2022. CFS imports increased 16 percent while exports decreased ten percent in March 2022.
• U.S. purchases of coated mechanical (CM) papers in April decreased 21 percent compared to last April while the inventory level increased six percent compared to March 2022. CM imports and exports both decreased compared to March 2021, down 21 percent and nine percent respectively.
• Uncoated mechanical (UM) paper shipments increased 15 percent compared to April 2021 while the inventory level increased one percent compared to March 2022. UM imports increased 13 percent while exports remained essentially flat (-0.1 percent) in March 2022.

A subscription to the complete report with detailed tables, charts and historical data can be purchased by contacting Kory Bockman at Statistics_Publications@AFandPA.org or 202-463-4716.

About AF&PA

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular in nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry's sustainability initiative – Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future.

The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $60 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states. Visit AF&PA online at www.afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper.

SOURCE: American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA)