U.S. printing-writing paper shipments decreased 14% in December 2023 compared to December 2022. U.S. purchases of total printing-writing papers decreased 25% in November compared to the same month last year. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased 3% when compared to November 2023, according to the American Forest & Paper Association.
Individually, U.S. purchases in all 3 major printing-writing categories (uncoated free sheet, coated free sheet and mechanical) also decreased in November.
Uncoated Free Sheet purchases decreased 16% when compared to November 2022, Coated Free Sheet purchases decreased 40% in the same period, and Mechanical papers purchases decreased 31%.