U.S. printing-writing paper shipments decreased 6% in November 2018 compared to November 2017. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased 3% from October. Imports of printing-writing papers in October increased 27% compared to October 2017 imports, while exports declined 27% compared to October 2017, as the American Forest & Paper Association reported.
Net imports of coated free sheet (CFS) papers peaked in October, hitting the highest level in at least seven years. Shipments of CFS decreased just 1% year-over-year in November.
U.S. purchases of uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper decreased 5% in November from the same month one year ago. Exports of UFS papers decreased 35% in October compared to October 2017.
U.S. purchases of uncoated mechanical (UM) papers increased 4% year-over-year in November.
U.S. shipments of coated mechanical (CM) paper; however, decreased 12% in November, while imports of CM papers increased 51% compared to last October. Exports of UM papers hit a new low in October, decreasing 75% compared to October 2017.
The American Forest & Paper Association serves to advance a sustainable U.S. pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products manufacturing industry through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy.
