Total U.S. Containerboard Production Decreased 10 Percent in Q1 2023

Mill inventories in the first quarter of 2023 dropped below 400,000 short tons for the first time since September 2021.

April 28, 2023 - The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) released its Q1 2023 Containerboard Quarterly report. According to the report, total Containerboard production in the first quarter of 2023 decreased 10% when compared to Q1 2022.

All containerboard grades experienced operating rate increases relative to Q4 2022.

Liner grades had a combined quarterly operating rate of 83.5%, up from 78.7%, while Medium grades were at 90.9%, up from 86.1%.

Export production in Q1 was 22.9% higher than the previous quarter, but trailed Q1 2022 production by 23.5%.

Mill inventories dropped below 400,000 short tons for the first time since September 2021.

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 by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recycle 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 5% of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states.

SOURCE: AF&PA