U.S. Packaging Papers and Specialty Packaging Shipments Rise 2% in December 2025

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) released the December 2025 Packaging Papers Monthly report. Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in December increased 2% compared to December 2024. They rose 1% compared to the same 12 months of 2024.​

The bleached operating rate increased slightly from November to 74.5% but remained below the year-to-date rate of 75.1%. Capacity declined 2.6% for the year.​

Unbleached bag & sack shipments fell 2.6% from last December, and decreased 2.2% year to date. Total inventories rose 6% from the same month last year.​

The complete report with detailed tables, charts and historical data can be purchased by contacting Kory Bockman at Statistics_Publications@afandpa.org or 202-463-4716.​

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) advances public policies fostering economic growth, job creation and global competitiveness for the sector producing essential paper and packaging products used daily by Americans. The U.S. forest products industry employs more than 925,000 people, mostly in rural America, ranking among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 44 states. The industry represents approximately 4.7% of total U.S. manufacturing GDP, producing over $435 billion in products annually. AF&PA member companies produce and use renewable biomass energy, committed to sustainable products via the industry's Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 initiative.