Total U.S. Boxboard Production Decreased 10 Percent in Q4 2023

The U.S. boxboard operating rate in Q4 2023 was 82.2%, down 4.9 points from Q4 2022.

Jan. 28, 2024 - The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released its Q4 2023 Boxboard report. According to the report, total boxboard production in Q4 decreased 10% compared to Q4 2022.

The boxboard operating rate was 82.2%, down 4.9 points from Q4 2022.

• Solid Bleached Folding – Domestic production decreased 6% compared to Q4 2022.
• Recycled Boxboard – Coated Recycled unmade orders were up 9% compared to September and down 34.7% year to date.
• Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in Q4 decreased 3% compared to Q4 2022. The operating rate was 87.2%.

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