U.S. printing-writing paper shipments decreased 1% in March 2024 compared to March 2023. U.S. purchases of total printing-writing papers also decreased 1% in February compared to the same month last year. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels decreased 1% when compared to February 2024, according to the American Forest & Paper Association.
Similar to last month, changes in U.S. shipments across the 3 major P-W categories (UFS, CFS, and MECH) in March showed mixed results compared to the same period last year. Uncoated free sheet (UFS) shipments remained flat, coated free sheet (CFS) shipments increased by 5%, and mechanical (MECH) paper shipments decreased by 18%. On a quarterly basis however, Q1 2024 shipments in all three major P‑W categories were lower than those of the same period last year.
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.