WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. packaging paper shipments continued to grow in June 2026, with total packaging papers and specialty packaging shipments increasing 2% year over year, according to the latest Packaging Papers Monthly report released by the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA).

Shipments for the first six months of 2026 were 6% higher than the same period in 2025, indicating steady demand across the packaging paper sector.

Bleached Packaging Paper Operating Rate Improves

The operating rate for bleached packaging papers rose to 91.3% in June, representing the second-highest monthly utilization rate recorded over the past 13 months.

The only higher level during the period was 93.1%, recorded in March 2026, suggesting mills have continued operating at relatively high capacity to meet market demand.

Bag and Sack Paper Posts Strong Growth

Among individual grades, unbleached bag and sack paper recorded the strongest performance.

AF&PA reported that shipments were:

• Up nearly 15% compared with June 2025.
• Up 7.7% year to date through the first half of 2026.

The gains reflect continued demand for industrial, retail and e-commerce packaging applications that rely on paper-based bag products.

Inventories Continue to Decline

Total packaging paper inventories were 4.4% lower than a year earlier.

Lower inventories, combined with improving shipment volumes and high operating rates, suggest mills have maintained balanced production levels while responding to customer demand.

Packaging Market Remains Resilient

The June report indicates that the U.S. packaging paper sector has continued to demonstrate resilience despite broader economic uncertainty.

Growing shipment volumes, improving mill utilization and lower inventories point to stable market fundamentals as demand for paper-based packaging remains supported by food, industrial and e-commerce applications.

The Packaging Papers Monthly report is published by the American Forest & Paper Association, which represents the U.S. forest products industry.

Last Updated on 21/07/2026 by Jota Machinery