U.S. printing-writing paper shipments fall 8% in June 2026

U.S. printing-writing paper shipments decreased 8% in June compared to June 2025, according to the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA).

Purchases of total printing-writing papers decreased 1% in May compared to the same month last year, based on trade data from the U.S. Census Bureau, while total inventory levels increased 1% when compared to May 2026.

Across the three major printing-writing categories – uncoated free sheet, coated free sheet, and mechanical – year-to-date U.S. shipments in June showed negative results compared to the same period last year, with UFS shipments decreasing 9%, CFS shipments decreasing 3%, and MECH shipments decreasing 28%.

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.