AF&PA: U.S. Packaging Paper Shipments Rise; Printing Paper Falls in March 2026

Shipments declined 7% year-on-year in March, while inventories edged down 1% from February 2026 levels.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released its March 2026 Packaging Papers and Printing-Writing Monthly reports, highlighting contrasting trends across key paper segments.

According to the report, total packaging papers and specialty packaging shipments rose 7% in March 2026 compared to the same month last year. Shipments were also up 3% for the first quarter versus 2025. Notably, unbleached packaging paper shipments reached their highest level in over two years, supported by an operating rate exceeding 90%, signaling strong production activity.

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AF&PA Reports Mixed Trends in U.S. Paper Market

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Bleached packaging paper shipments increased 5.5% year-on-year in March, although they remained lower on a year-to-date basis. Meanwhile, total inventories across packaging grades dropped to their lowest level in the past 13 months, reflecting tighter supply conditions.

In contrast, the printing-writing paper segment continued to face headwinds. Shipments declined 7% year-on-year in March, while inventories edged down 1% from February 2026 levels.

Trade data from the U.S. Census Bureau showed February purchases fell 3% year-on-year, with mixed performance across major categories, including declines in uncoated and mechanical papers.

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