The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released the May 2026 Printing-Writing Monthly report.
According to the report, U.S. printing-writing paper shipments dropped 14% in May compared to May 2025, while purchases of total printing-writing papers declined 2% in April versus the same month last year, based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA).
Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased 6% when compared to April 2026.
Across the three major printing-writing categories – uncoated free sheet (UFS), coated free sheet (CFS), and mechanical (MECH) – U.S. purchases in April showed mixed year-over-year results, with UFS purchases decreasing 5%, CFS purchases increasing 3%, and MECH purchases increasing 1%.
The data covers the full range of printing-writing paper grades and reflects current market conditions across the sector.
The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance public policies that foster economic growth, job creation and global competitiveness for a vital sector that makes the essential paper and packaging products Americans use every day.
The U.S. forest products industry employs more than 925,000 people, largely in rural America, and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 44 states.
