U.S. packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in May decreased 7% compared to May 2024. They were down 4% when compared to the same 5 months of 2024, according to the American Forest & Paper Association.
The operating rate for bleached packaging papers was 73.1%, up 1.6 points from May 2024 and essentially flat (-0.4 pts.) year-to-date.
Shipments of the biggest subgrade in unbleached packaging papers – bag & sack – were 97,500 short tons for the month of May, down 11.1% from the same month last year, and down 9.7% year-to-date.
The American Forest & Paper Association 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.
