May 20, 2009 - Total Kraft paper shipments increased by 2.3%, or 2400 tons compared to March 2009, according to the American Forest & Paper Association's April 2009 Kraft Paper Sector Report.

Total Kraft paper inventory in April 2009 has dropped 4.2%, 3300 tons lower than March 2009, AF&PA said

Total Unbleached Kraft shipments increased by 1.8% from last month, but down 32.1% compared to April 2008. The total Unbleached Kraft inventory decreased 5.7% compared to last month, a decline of 3600 tons.

The total shipments of Unbleached Kraft Bag & Sack increased 10.8% compared to March 2009. For the year-to-date, the shipments were 30.2% below last year.

The total shipments of Unbleached Kraft Multiwall Sack also increased 1.3%, or 300 tons compared to last month.

Unbleached Kraft Converting shipments decreased 5.7% in April compared to March 2009. The total year-to-date of 2009 shipments fell 4.1% compared to 2008.

Total Bleached Kraft shipments increased 6.1% compared to last month, however a drop of 19.7% compared to April 2008. The total Bleached Kraft inventory increased 2.0%, 300 tons higher than March 2009.

SOURCE: The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA)