Total U.S. Containerboard Production Decreased 1 Percent in Q3 2023

Mill inventories of containerboard ended the quarter at 370,500 short tons, 11.6% lower than at the end of Q3 2022.

Oct. 30, 2023 - The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released its Q3 2023 Containerboard Quarterly report. According to the report, total Containerboard production in the third quarter of 2023 decreased 1% when compared to Q3 2022 and was down 8% compared to the same 9 months last year.

• Operating rates for all major grades decreased compared to Q2 2023 while total production was up 4.2%; Q3 has one more production day than Q2.
• Total production for export was up 16.2% from Q2 2023 and also up 16.3% from Q3 2022, though it was 10.7% lower year-to-date.
• New supply of containerboard (domestic production plus imports) increased for the third consecutive quarter but was still down 7.1% year-to-date.
• Mill inventories ended the quarter at 370,500 short tons, 11.6% lower than at the end of Q3 2022.

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