Total U.S. printing and writing (P&W) paper shipments decreased 6% in April compared with April 2014, with inventory levels increasing 1% from March, according to the AF&PA (Washington, D.C., USA) April 2015 Printing-Writing Paper Report released this week. Other key data from the report include:

• Uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper shipments in April decreased 3% compared with April 2014. Imports of UFS increased 3% y/y in March.
• April coated free sheet (CFS) paper shipments decreased 9% compared with April 2014. Imports of CFS papers increased 13% in March, the tenth y/y increase in the past 12 months.
• Uncoated mechanical (UM) paper shipments decreased 9% compared with April 2014. Imports of UM papers were down 11% in March, the ninth consecutive monthly decline.
• Coated mechanical (CM) shipments in April decreased 11% relative to April 2014. Imports of CM were down 8% in March and exports increased by 29%, the third consecutive increase. 

The complete report with detailed tables, charts, and historical data can be purchased by contacting Caroline Nealon at 202-463-2448.