Paper and paperboard consumption in the United States has seen a significant decline over the past two decades. In 2023, consumption reached approximately 58.32 million metric tons, marking a 38 percent decrease from 2000 levels. Production and recycling trends in the United States As consumption, paper production in the U.S. has declined in recent years, dropping to some 60 million metric tons in 2023. Despite this decreasing trend, the country was still one of the largest paper producers in the world that year, second only to China. Contributing to the decline of paper production and consumption are changing consumer habits and increased digitalization across various industries. Since the beginning of the 2000s, the U.S. has also made progress in paper recycling, with the recycling rate reaching nearly 67 percent in 2023. Composition of paper and board market in the United States Case materials dominated both production and consumption in the U.S. paper and board market. In 2023, case materials accounted for 29.09 million metric tons of consumption and over 54 percent of total production by weight. Case materials have experienced an upward trend in recent years, similar to cartonboard and sanitary papers, each accounting for approximately 10 percent of the paper market in the U.S. in 2023. By comparison, graphic papers’ production has recorded a stable decline in the past decades.

The global consumption of paper and cardboard was approximately *** million metric tons in 2023 - a decrease when compared with the previous year. The global consumption of paper and paperboard has increased almost ** percent, relative to 1990 levels. Global paper consumption is projected to further increase in the coming decades, surpassing *** million metric tons by 2030. Which country consumes the most paper? China is by far the largest consumer of paper worldwide, having consumed ***** million metric tons of paper and paperboard in 2023. This represented nearly ******* of the total paper consumption worldwide. China was followed by the United States, which consumed **** million metric tons. E-commerce boosts production As with consumption, paper production has been increasing worldwide. Although the production of graphic paper has been falling in the age of digitalization, the demand for packaging paper and board has been increasing annually. The growth in packaging production has been fueled by the online shopping boom, with a growing need for containerboard – a material used in the manufacture of corrugated board.

The global consumption of paper and paperboard totaled 420 million tons in 2023. Consumption is projected to continue rising over the coming decade to reach 476 million tons by 2032. Packaging accounts for the largest share of global paper and paperboard production. Most consumed paper and paperboard type Containerboard was the most consumed paper and paperboard type in 2023, at 185 million tons. Global containerboard demand is expected to increase to more than 220 million tons by 2030. Containerboard is an important paperboard type used in the manufacturing of corrugated boards. Which country produces the most paper and paperboard? The United States was the world’s largest producer of paper and paperboard until the mid-2000s. Since then, China has become the leading producer, with an output of 128 million metric tons in 2022. Other leading paper and paperboard producers include Japan, Germany, and India.

Graph and download economic data for Newsprint Paper Consumption for United States (M0102DUSM601NNBR) from Jan 1919 to Dec 1939 about periodicals, consumption, and USA.

Statistics on Paper Consumption

Number of sheets of paper used monthly on Infrabel's network printers.The following data are not included in these figures: large-format printers, local printers, copy shops.

The global consumption of pulp for paper amounted to 194.4 million metric tons in 2023. Pulp consumption has tripled worldwide since the 1960s. There have been several noticeable drops in consumption over the past 60 years. The greatest declined occurred during the global financial crises in 2008 and 2009.

The different recycled content of paper purchased are recoded (e.g. whether it is 10% recycled content or 80% recycled content). The types of paper purchased includes: A3, A4, A5, coloured or white paper. Any paper purchased outside of the whole-of-government supplier, Corporate Express is not captured.

In 2022, the consumption volume of paper in Japan amounted to close to ***** million metric tons. Figures decreased continuously throughout the past decade, likely due to the digitalization of paper products such as printing and writing papers.

Japan remained one of the largest paper manufacturers  Even though its paper production decreased throughout the past decade, Japan remained the third-largest producer of paper and cardboard, following China and the United States. Furthermore, Japanese companies such as Oji Holdings and Nippon Paper continued to rank among the leading paper companies worldwide. Most of the paper that was manufactured in Japan was used for printing and communication, newsprint, sanitary tissue as well as paper packaging.

 Paper packaging as a more sustainable alternative to plastic In recent years, some Japanese companies started to use paper products to reduce plastic waste. Paper and paperboard products made up the majority of packaging material shipments in Japan. The demand for paper packaging is expected to continue to rise as paper is considered more sustainable than plastic. Although the production cost of paper is usually higher than for plastic, the paper alternatives are more compact and recyclable. Amounting to around ** percent, paper had one of the highest recycling rates in Japan, posing a more environmentally friendly alternative.

The different recycled content of paper purchased are recoded (e.g. whether it is 10% recycled content or 80% recycled content). \r \r Any paper purchased outside of the whole-of-government supplier, Corporate Express is not captured.\r \r The types of paper purchased includes: A3, A4, A5, coloured or white paper

Discover the latest trends in the printing and writing paper market in the United States, as demand continues to rise. Forecasted data suggests a positive growth trend over the next decade, with anticipated increases in both market volume and value. By 2035, the market is projected to reach 10 million tons in volume and $12.9 billion in value.

Case materials was the most consumed paper and paperboard type in the United States in 2023, at ***** million metric tons. Printing and writing papers followed with a total of **** million metric tons consumed.

Tonnage of recycled printing paper used for production in the printing workshop in the last 12 months

This data set contains estimated data on paper consumption, 1989 to most recent.

The global copier paper market, valued at $10,650 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.0% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by the continued demand from office environments, educational institutions, and government agencies, despite the increasing adoption of digital technologies. The market is segmented by paper weight (70 GSM, 80 GSM, and others) and application (office, educational, government, banking, and others). The 70 GSM and 80 GSM segments are expected to dominate, reflecting the preference for specific paper qualities in different applications. Key players like Mondi, Sylvamo, Domtar, and others are vying for market share through product innovation, strategic partnerships, and geographical expansion. The increasing awareness of sustainability is influencing demand for eco-friendly copier paper options, pushing manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices and develop recycled content products. Regional growth varies, with North America and Europe currently holding significant market share due to established infrastructure and high paper consumption. However, rapid economic development and increasing urbanization in Asia Pacific are expected to fuel substantial growth in this region over the forecast period. Price fluctuations in pulp, a key raw material, and global economic conditions remain potential restraints on market growth. While digitalization continues to impact traditional paper usage, the sustained demand from established sectors like banking and government, coupled with the resilience of educational institutions’ reliance on physical documents, ensures continued market relevance. The market’s growth trajectory reflects a balance between the shift towards digitalization and the enduring need for high-quality paper in specific applications. Future growth will depend on the interplay of technological advancements, economic factors, and the continued adaptation of manufacturing practices towards sustainability. Successful players will be those that can effectively cater to evolving customer preferences for both quality and environmentally responsible products.

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Printing And Writing Paper Market Size 2025-2029

The printing and writing paper market size is forecast to increase by USD 10.88 billion at a CAGR of 2.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is witnessing significant growth due to the emergence of various types of paper, catering to diverse applications. One notable trend is the increasing demand for handmade paper, which offers unique textures and aesthetics, particularly in high-end stationery and artisanal product segments. However, the market faces challenges from the increasing number of digital platforms that offer alternative solutions for communication and document management. This shift towards digital media may impact the traditional printing and writing paper industry, necessitating companies to explore new opportunities and adapt to evolving consumer preferences. The market is witnessing significant growth due to the emergence of various types of paper, including cotton-based and LED-compatible paper, catering to the needs of commercial printing, e-learning, and publishing industries. The increasing demand for data security and privacy is driving the usage of thermal paper for secure transactions in real estate, logistics, and e-commerce sectors.
To capitalize on the market's dynamics, businesses must focus on innovation, product differentiation, and strategic partnerships, ensuring they cater to both traditional and emerging market segments. By staying attuned to consumer trends and addressing the challenges posed by digital media, companies can effectively navigate the market landscape and maintain a competitive edge.

What will be the Size of the Printing And Writing Paper Market during the forecast period?

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The market continues to evolve, driven by shifting consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements. Writing paper remains a staple in the industry, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and renewable resources. Paper regulations impact paper mills and wholesalers, shaping industrial goods production and distribution. Sustainable forestry and paperboard packaging are key trends, with paper bags and napkins gaining popularity in the consumer goods sector. Paper distribution channels expand, incorporating screen printing, specialty paper, and flexographic printing. Wood pulp and paper innovation fuel the development of bio-based materials and digital media. Circular economy principles influence paper recycling and the use of recycled fiber in various applications. Moreover, the market is witnessing a focus on information management, data security, and content marketing, leading to the adoption of advanced document management systems and certifications.
Paper pricing and technology shape demand for offset paper, copy paper, and paper alternatives. The paper industry's continuous evolution encompasses paper finishing, text paper, printing paper, and various paper types, including bond paper, paper plates, and packaging paper, catering to diverse sectors like food and beverage and office supplies.

How is this Printing And Writing Paper Industry segmented?

The printing and writing paper industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Printing paper
  Writing paper


Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Type

  Uncoated wood-free
  Coated wood-free
  Coated mechanical
  Uncoated mechanical
  Specialty papers


Geography

  North America

    US


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    Australia
    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The printing paper segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market encompasses various types of paper used for diverse applications, including inkjet printer paper, laser print paper, and matte paper. These papers are essential for producing office stationery such as letterheads, documents, business cards, postcards, and invitation cards, as well as A4 size paper sheets. The global demand for printing papers is driven by the increasing need for printed book covers, magazines, and catalogs. The growing popularity of personal catalogs is a significant factor fueling this demand. Retailers are embracing multichannel marketing strategies to engage customers and boost sales, necessitating the mailing of printed catalogs. The emergence of multichannel shopping as a retail marketing trend further bolsters the demand for printing papers. Other trends include the use of chelating agents and bleach in decorative paper and the adoption of biocides to enhance the durability and resistance of labels and displays.

Sustainability is a critic

The Paper and Paperboard Manufacturing industry has struggled with the ever-increasing threat of digitalisation across Europe dampening paper usage. This is the main reason revenue is expected to contract at a compound annual rate of 4.8% over the five years through 2024 to €115.8 billion. A number of companies have exited the market in recent years, driving the manufacturers left behind to consolidate – many of the more prominent manufacturers are acquiring smaller businesses to shore up their market share. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a key driver of the industry’s recent revenue decline, especially in 2020. Volatile commodity prices and weak downstream conditions, caused by enforced business closures across the majority of European countries and more cautious consumer spending, led to widespread economic uncertainty and low investment. Paper stationery manufacturers and newspaper publishers suffered greatly, partly because of Europe’s heightened degree of digitalisation (driven by a work-from-home trend) dampening paper consumption. Revenue is forecast to fall by 4.2% in 2024 and remain below pre-pandemic levels. Volatile wood pulp and paper prices, more regulatory pressures and supply chain disruption have caused profitability to remain low. The ongoing shift towards electronic communications and media will continue to create challenging conditions for manufacturers over the coming years. In the short term, macroeconomic headwinds (including high inflation and interest rates) are expected to ease, supporting revenue prospects, especially as paper manufacturers start to reinvest their widening profitability into the production process. Continuing investment in sustainability and automation within manufacturing facilities will put paper producers in a strong position to capitalise on a growing packaging and paper bag manufacturing market. Over the five years through 2029, revenue is slated to swell at a compound annual rate of 2% to €127.9 billion.

The total weight of paper used by the printing workshop in the past 12 months for printing of publications for bureaux and departments

Recycling Paper And Cardboard Market Outlook

The global market size for recycling paper and cardboard was valued at approximately USD 45 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 75 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period. This significant growth can be attributed to increasing environmental awareness, stringent government regulations, and advancements in recycling technologies. As the world grapples with the challenges posed by waste management and environmental sustainability, the recycling paper and cardboard market emerges as a pivotal player in driving eco-friendly solutions.

The upward trajectory of the recycling paper and cardboard market is driven by several key growth factors. Firstly, rising environmental consciousness among consumers and businesses has spurred demand for recycled materials. Companies are increasingly adopting sustainable practices to reduce their carbon footprint, thereby boosting the demand for recycled paper and cardboard products. Additionally, stringent government regulations aimed at promoting recycling and waste reduction are compelling industries to adopt recycling measures, further fueling market growth.

Technological advancements in recycling processes are another critical growth factor. Innovations in collection, sorting, shredding, pulping, and de-inking technologies have greatly enhanced the efficiency and quality of recycling operations. These advancements reduce processing costs and improve the yield of high-quality recycled materials, making recycling more economically viable and attractive for businesses. Furthermore, the development of automated sorting systems and improved de-inking techniques have significantly increased the purity and usability of recycled paper and cardboard.

Economic benefits also play a crucial role in the market's growth. Recycling paper and cardboard is often more cost-effective compared to manufacturing new products from virgin materials. This cost advantage is particularly relevant for industries such as packaging and printing, where material costs constitute a significant portion of overall expenses. Moreover, recycling helps in reducing landfill usage and waste disposal costs, providing an additional economic incentive for businesses and municipalities alike.

From a regional perspective, North America and Europe have traditionally been the largest markets for recycling paper and cardboard, driven by robust regulatory frameworks and high environmental awareness. However, the Asia Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth due to increasing industrialization, urbanization, and government initiatives to promote recycling. Countries like China, India, and Japan are investing heavily in recycling infrastructure, thereby contributing to the market’s expansion. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also emerging as potential growth areas, although they currently have smaller market shares compared to other regions.

Product Type Analysis

The recycling paper and cardboard market is segmented by product type into corrugated cardboard, newspapers, magazines, office paper, and others. Corrugated cardboard is one of the most recycled products due to its widespread use in packaging. The increasing e-commerce industry significantly drives the demand for recycled corrugated cardboard, as packaging materials are required in large quantities. With the rising trend of sustainable packaging, companies are keen on using recycled cardboard to align with their environmental commitments.

Newspapers and magazines are other significant segments within the recycling market. Although digital media has reduced the consumption of physical newspapers and magazines, these materials still constitute a considerable portion of the waste stream. Advanced recycling techniques have enabled efficient processing of these materials, converting them into high-quality recycled paper used for various applications. The recycling of newspapers and magazines helps in conserving natural resources and reducing landfill waste.

Office paper is another vital segment, driven by the high volume of paper used in corporate and educational settings. Efforts to create paperless environments are ongoing, but the reality is that paper continues to be a staple in offices worldwide. Recycling office paper not only helps in waste reduction but also provides an economic benefit by reducing the need for virgin pulp in paper manufacturing. Additionally, the introduction of secure shredding and recycling services has made it easier for organizations to recy