AF&PA reports 9% increase in packaging paper shipments for September 2025

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) announced a 9% rise in total packaging papers and specialty packaging shipments in September 2025 compared to the same month last year. Shipments during the first nine months of 2025 were nearly flat, with a slight 0.5% increase versus 2024. The unbleached operating rate rose to 88.0%, marking its highest level in 15 months. Bleached food wrapping paper shipments increased by 6% year-over-year for September and 8.4% on a year-to-date basis. Total inventories of packaging papers also grew by 5.9% compared to September 2024. These figures reflect steady demand growth and stable production efficiency in the U.S. packaging paper segment amid evolving market conditions. The full detailed report with charts and tables is available by subscription through AF&PA.