Total U.S. printing and writing (P&W) paper shipments decreased 13% in September 2018 compared with September 2017, according to the September 2018 Printing-Writing Monthly report from the American Forest & Paper Association (Washington, D.C., USA). Total P&W paper inventory levels decreased less than one-half of 1% from August 2018. Imports of P&W papers in August increased 5% compared with August 2017 imports, while exports declined 26% compared with August 2017.

Shipments of uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper decreased year-over-year in September. Inventory levels increased 1%. Exports of UFS papers decreased 36% in August compared with August 2017, the largest decrease since August 2015.

Shipments of uncoated mechanical (UM) papers decreased 26% y/y in September. Imports of UM increased 19% y/y in August.

Shipments of coated free sheet (CFS) paper and coated mechanical(CM) papers both decreased y/y in September. August imports of CFS papers increased 3%three compared with August 2017, while imports of CM papers increased 19% compared with last August.

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