Total U.S. Printing-Writing Paper Shipments Decreased 25 Percent in April 2023

Total printing-writing paper inventory levels in April 2023 decreased 1% when compared to March 2023.

May 17, 2023 - The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released the April 2023 Printing-Writing Monthly report. According to the report, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased 25% in April compared to April 2022.

U.S. purchases of total printing-writing papers decreased 21% in April compared to the same month last year.

Total printing-writing paper inventory levels in April decreased 1% when compared to March 2023.

U.S. shipments decreased in all 3 major printing-writing grades (UFS, CFS and MECH) when compared to April of 2022, with uncoated free sheet papers recording the smallest year-ago decrease of 13%.

Uncoated free sheet and mechanical papers exports and imports decreased in March compared to the same month last year, while coated free sheet imports increased 3%. March year-to-date printing-writing net imports decreased 9%.

A subscription to 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 by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recycle 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 5% of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states.

SOURCE: AF&PA