WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. printing and writing paper shipments continued to weaken in June 2026, with total shipments falling 8% year over year, according to the latest Printing-Writing Monthly report released by the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA).

The report highlights continued softness across all major printing and writing paper grades despite relatively stable purchasing activity and modest inventory growth.

Shipments Decline Across Major Paper Grades

AF&PA reported that all three primary printing and writing paper categories recorded year-to-date shipment declines through June 2026 compared with the same period last year.

The year-to-date results were:

• Uncoated Free Sheet (UFS): down 9%
• Coated Free Sheet (CFS): down 3%
• Mechanical (MECH) papers: down 28%

The steepest decline occurred in the mechanical paper segment, reflecting ongoing structural challenges in publication and print-related markets.

Paper Purchases Show Smaller Decline

Using the latest trade data from the U.S. Census Bureau, AF&PA reported that purchases of total printing and writing papers in May 2026 declined 1% compared with May 2025.

The smaller decline in purchases compared with shipments suggests demand remained relatively stable but continued below year-earlier levels.

Inventories Edge Higher

Total printing and writing paper inventories increased 1% compared with May 2026.

The modest inventory growth indicates mills maintained balanced production levels despite weaker shipment volumes.

Printing Paper Market Faces Continued Pressure

The latest data reflects the continued long-term decline in demand for traditional printing and writing papers as digital communication, electronic publishing and changing office printing habits reshape paper consumption.

While specialty and premium printing grades continue to serve commercial printing, publishing and business applications, the sector remains under pressure from structural market changes.

AF&PA publishes the Printing-Writing Monthly report to track production, shipments and inventories across the U.S. printing and writing paper industry.

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Last Updated on 21/07/2026 by Jota Machinery