Total U.S. Printing-Writing Paper Shipments Decreased 20 Percent in August 2023

Total printing-writing paper inventory levels in August 2023 decreased 5% when compared to July 2023.

Sept. 19, 2023 - The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released the August 2023 Printing-Writing Monthly report. According to the report, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased 20% in August compared to August 2022.

U.S. purchases of total printing-writing papers decreased 33% in July compared to the same month last year.

Total printing-writing paper inventory levels decreased 5% when compared to July 2023.

U.S. shipments increased in all 3 major P-W grades (UFS, CFS and MECH) when compared to July, with uncoated free sheet papers recording the greatest increase by volume of approximately 33 thousand tons.

Net imports in all 3 major grades decreased in July compared to the same month last year. July year-to-date U.S. purchases by volume decreased 22% compared to the same period last year.

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 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