AF&PA Reports Mixed Trends in U.S. Paper Market
Paper Recycling | 2026-03-23 07:57:28
Total inventories registered a notable increase of 7% compared to February 2025, indicating improved supply levels.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) reported diverging trends in its February 2026 monthly data, with packaging paper segments showing resilience while printing and writing grades continued to face demand pressure.
According to the Packaging Papers Monthly report, total packaging papers and specialty packaging shipments increased 4% compared to February 2025. Shipments were also up 1% on a year-to-date basis.
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The operating rate for unbleached packaging papers rose to 83.9%, up 4 percentage points year-on-year and 2.3 points higher for the first two months of 2026. However, bleached food wrapping shipments declined 1.5% from the same month last year.
Total inventories registered a notable increase of 7% compared to February 2025, indicating improved supply levels.
Meanwhile, the Printing-Writing Monthly report highlighted continued contraction in demand. Total shipments dropped 6% year-on-year in February. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau showed U.S. purchases fell sharply by 14% in January. Inventory levels declined 1% from January, while net imports across major categories fell 16%, reflecting softer market conditions.
POLL
What is driving the divergence in paper market trends?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What growth trends were observed in packaging papers?
Shipments increased 4% year-on-year, with year-to-date growth of 1%, reflecting steady demand.
- How did operating rates change?
Unbleached packaging paper operating rates rose to 83.9%, indicating stronger production activity.
- What challenges are facing printing and writing papers?
Demand remains weak, with shipments down 6% and U.S. purchases falling sharply.
