Sep 26, 2012. /Lesprom Network/. U.S. total printing-writing paper shipments decreased 5% in August 2012 compared to August 2011, as the American Forest & Paper Association said in the press release received by Lesprom Network. All four major printing-writing grades posted single-digit decreases compared to last August. U.S. purchases of printing-writing papers also decreased, down 6% in August. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels decreased 5% from last month, primarily due to double-digit decreases in mechanical-grade paper inventories. The American Forest & Paper Association is the national trade association of the forest products industry, representing pulp, paper, packaging and wood products manufacturers, and forest landowners.