Packaging paper shipments rose 9% in September 2025, while printing-paper shipments fell 9% year-over-year.

US packaging paper shipments rose 9% in September 2025, with unbleached operating rates at their highest in 15 months, while printing-writing paper shipments fell 9% year-over-year. Total inventories for packaging were up 5.9% compared to September 2024, but year-to-date shipments were nearly flat. The forest products industry, supporting over 925,000 jobs, saw ProAmpac acquire International Paper’s bag converting operations, expanding sustainable packaging capabilities. Microsoft also advanced inclusive packaging design, and companies continued investing in modernization and sustainability.