U.S. printing-writing paper shipments decreased 15% in February 2023 compared to February 2022. U.S. purchases of total printing-writing papers decreased 6% in February compared to the same month last year. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels remained essentially flat (+0.3%) when compared to January 2023, as the American Forest & Paper Association reports.
February shipments decreased in all 3 major P-W grades when compared to the same month the year before, with uncoated free sheet papers recording the smallest year-ago decrease of 9%. In January, compared to year-ago levels, net imports increased in coated and uncoated free sheet papers while net imports of mechanical papers decreased by 2%.
The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy.
