May 18, 2012. /Lesprom Network/. U.S. kraft paper shipments in March 2012 were 142.9 thousand tons, a decrease of 5% compared to March 2011. Total inventory was 80.5 thousand tons this month, as the American Forest & Paper Association said in a press release received by Lesprom Network. U.S. paperboard production in March 2012 decreased by 3.6% compared to March 2011, but increased 3.9% from last month 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.