Wedoany.com Report-Dec. 21, The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has published its November 2025 Packaging Papers Monthly report.

Data indicate that shipments of packaging papers and specialty packaging in November declined 10 percent from October levels, yet showed a 1 percent increase compared to November 2024. For the first 11 months of 2025, shipments also rose 1 percent relative to the corresponding period in 2024.

The operating rate for unbleached grades fell to 79 percent, marking the second-lowest figure of the year after May's 76.9 percent. Overall capacity through the year to date decreased by 1.6 percent.

Shipments of bleached food wrapping grades dropped 2.2 percent versus November 2024, although they advanced 7.4 percent for the year to date.

Inventory levels across the category increased 6.2 percent from November of the prior year.

Detailed tables, charts, and historical comparisons are available in the full report, which can be obtained by contacting Kory Bockman at Statistics_Publications@afandpa.org or 202-463-4716.

The American Forest & Paper Association advances policies supporting economic development, employment, and international competitiveness in a sector producing essential paper and packaging items used daily by consumers.

The U.S. forest products industry provides jobs for over 925,000 individuals, primarily in rural communities, and ranks among the leading manufacturing employers in 44 states. It contributes approximately 4.7 percent to the nation's manufacturing gross domestic product, generating products valued at more than $435 billion each year.

Member companies of AF&PA play a major role in producing and utilizing renewable biomass energy while committing to sustainable practices through long-standing programs focused on responsible resource management.

These monthly updates offer insights into operational trends for packaging materials, reflecting adjustments in production rates and stock positions amid varying demand patterns.

The modest year-over-year shipment gains suggest steady underlying requirements despite monthly fluctuations.

Lower unbleached operating rates point to capacity management in response to current conditions, with year-to-date reductions indicating deliberate scaling.

Bleached wrapping performance highlights segment-specific variations, with cumulative growth offsetting the monthly dip.

Rising inventories may provide buffers for anticipated needs or reflect cautious stocking approaches.

AF&PA's reporting supports informed decision-making across the supply chain, from raw material suppliers to converters and end users.

The association's advocacy emphasizes the sector's contributions to renewable energy utilization and product sustainability.

By tracking key metrics like shipments, rates, and stocks, stakeholders gain visibility into evolving dynamics within packaging grades.

Consistent data collection over time enables benchmarking and trend analysis essential for strategic planning.

The industry's focus on biomass integration aligns with broader resource efficiency objectives.

Member efforts in sustainability initiatives underscore commitment to balanced environmental and economic outcomes.

Overall, the November figures portray a resilient segment navigating short-term variability while maintaining annual progress in core indicators.