U.S. total printing-writing paper shipments decreased 7% in December 2018 compared to December 2017, which matches the total decrease for the year. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased 7% from November, as the American Forest & Paper Association reported.
U.S. purchases of uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper decreased 6% in December from the same month one year ago. The inventory level of UFS papers increased 8% in December compared to November.
Shipments of coated free sheet (CFS) papers decreased 6% in 2018 when compared to 2017. Purchases decreased 3% for the year.
U.S. purchases of uncoated mechanical (UM) papers increased 3% year-over-year in December. Shipments of coated mechanical (CM) paper decreased 4% in December.
Inventory levels at the end of December when compared to November increased 7% and remained essentially flat for UM paper and CM paper, respectively.
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.
