Total U.S. Packaging Papers & Specialty Packaging Shipments Decreased Seven Percent in September 2021

The operating rate Packaging Papers & Specialty Packaging in September 2021 was 86.8 percent, down 4.5 points from September 2020 and up 3.4 points year-to-date.

Oct. 18, 2021 - The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released its September 2021 Packaging Papers & Specialty Packaging Monthly report. According to the report, total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in September decreased seven percent compared to September 2020. They were up one percent when compared to the same nine months of 2020.

• The operating rate was 86.8 percent, down 4.5 points from September 2020 and up 3.4 points year-to-date.
• Mill inventories at the end of September decreased 2,000 short tons from the previous month and were essentially flat (-815 short tons) compared to September 2020.

The complete report with detailed tables, charts and historical data can be purchased by contacting Kory Bockman at Statistics_Publications@afandpa.org or 202-463-4716.

About AF&PA

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. The forest products industry is circular in nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry's sustainability initiative – Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future.

The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $60 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states. Visit AF&PA online at www.afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper.

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