U.S. containerboard production in Q2 2025 decreased 5% compared to Q2 2024. It was down 3% when compared to the same 6 months of 2024, according to the American Forest & Paper Association.
The operating rates for all four major grades declined from Q1, with the overall rate dropping 2.7 points.
Production for export has declined nearly 12% year-to-date. Domestic new supply, however, has only declined 1.2%.
Inventories at mills peaked in May, climbing to their highest level in over 15 months, and then declined slightly to end the quarter at 433 thousand short tons.
The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance public policies that foster economic growth, job creation and global competitiveness for a vital sector that makes the essential paper and packaging products Americans use every day.
