The United States consumed approximately 58.3 million metric tons of paper and paperboard in 2023. This was a decrease in comparison to the previous year. Nevertheless, when compared to 2000 levels, paper and paperboard consumption in the North American country has declined by roughly 38 percent. The United States is the second-largest consumer of paper and paperboard worldwide, behind China.

Case materials was the most consumed paper and paperboard type in the United States in 2023, at 29.09 million metric tons. Printing and writing papers followed with a total of 7.96 million metric tons consumed.

Graph and download economic data for Newsprint Paper Consumption for United States (M0102EUSM601NNBR) from Jan 1933 to Feb 1956 about periodicals, consumption, and USA.

This statistic illustrates the per capita consumption of paper and board in the United States from 2003 to 2019. In 2019, the per capita consumption of paper and board in the United States amounted to 446 pounds.

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.

Through 2025, the paper end-use market output in the United States is expected to increase roughly a 0.4 percent.

U.S. paper market

It is expected that the paper end-use market output will experience a decreasing rate of 2.1 percent from 2019 to 2020. The industry has been heavily criticized due to its unsustainable deforestation of old-growth forests and illegal practices in some regions, most notably in the Amazon Rainforest. Growth in the industry has also quickly expanded in countries like China and Russia where low wages and a lack of environmental consideration are common.

China and the United States produce, by far, the world’s greatest volumes of paper and cardboard, reaching nearly 109 million metric tons and 72 million metric tons, respectively, in 2018. One of the largest companies in the world in the forest, paper, and packaging industry is International Paper, an American company with its headquarters in New York. International Paper was founded in 1898 when 18 pulp and paper mills in northeastern United States were merged. The company generated 21.7 billion U.S. dollars in revenue in 2017. Its most common products are plastic lids and paper cups, which fuel many large fast food chains such as McDonald’s. The industry in the United States as a whole garnered some 100 billion U.S. dollars in revenue in 2015.

The industry has faced a challenging environment recently, with shifting consumer demands and evolving retail landscapes. While sustainability continues to influence a significant segment of buyers, growth has been shaped by where consumers shop. Private-label brands in grocery outlets have become increasingly prominent, offering affordable paper products that often outperform branded alternatives on price and perceived quality. This trend has proven favorable for smaller manufacturers but compresses profit, as companies must sell at lower prices to compete. Similarly, supplying large fast-food establishments with molded pulp solutions has created a new avenue for growth, but has exposed limitations in production capacity. Large-scale clients require higher outputs, straining supply chains competing with cardboard producers for recycled fiber. Constraints in recycled material availability have forced manufacturers to source more expensive inputs, passing along higher operational costs while serving primarily cost-sensitive food service distributors, further limiting profit. The paper cup segment of the industry highlights broader sustainability and cost challenges. Although often promoted as a renewable alternative, limited access to effective recycling programs undermines the appeal of paper cups to sustainability-oriented consumers. This limitation has prompted companies to explore reusable cup options to attract these markets, thereby endangering the market positioning of traditional paper cups. Efforts to adopt alternative materials to PE coatings demonstrate an opportunity to improve sustainability; however, these innovations come with higher costs, which inhibit widespread adoption. Despite these headwinds, one area of resilience is found in cellulose insulation, which has benefited from increased demand tied to eco-conscious residential construction activity. Nonetheless, the industry has experienced a drop in revenue at a CAGR of 3.8% over the five years through 2025, with earnings estimated to fall to $5.4 billion and an additional 1.0% contraction projected for 2025. Profitability also remains under pressure amid rising input and operational costs. The industry appears poised for modest recovery, with new opportunities emerging across several product categories. Stricter labeling requirements are expected to drive greater use of recycled materials, enabling manufacturers to attain FDA approval and appeal to sustainability-minded consumers. Meeting these standards will introduce the complexity of managing multiple supply streams, but could help stabilize input sourcing and foster more competitive pricing. Also, demand is set to grow as technology companies incorporate molded pulp components in packaging and beverage producers develop molded fiber bottles to comply with new environmental laws. Cellulose insulation will likely maintain momentum, supported by public funding for sustainable construction. Together, these trends support a revenue growth at a CAGR of 1.4% through 2030, with annual sales expected to reach $5.8 billion, signaling a gradual return to growth despite persistent cost pressures.

Forecast: Titanium Dioxide Consumption in Paper Industry in the US 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

USA Pulp Paper Market Analysis The USA pulp paper market is estimated to be valued at USD 51139.4 million in 2025 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 1.00% during the forecast period 2025-2033. The market is driven by factors such as rising demand for packaging paper due to the growth of e-commerce, increasing use of paper in printing and writing applications, and demand for sanitary papers. The market is also witnessing increasing adoption of sustainable packaging solutions, which is expected to further drive growth in the coming years. Key market trends include the growing popularity of e-commerce, increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions, and rising use of digital printing technology. The market is fragmented, with a number of major players accounting for a significant share of the total revenue. Some of the key companies operating in the market include International Paper (U.S.), Georgia-Pacific Corporation (U.S.), WestRock (U.S.), Packaging Corporation of America (U.S.), and Domtar Inc. (U.S.). The market is expected to experience moderate growth in the coming years, with the growing demand for packaging paper and sustainable packaging solutions being the key growth drivers. Recent developments include: December 2021: International Paper planned to construct a corrugated packaging manufacturing facility in Atglen, Pennsylvania. The company's objective is to expand its industrial packaging presence in the northeastern United States. Construction of the plant is slated to commence in the first quarter of 2022, with full operational status anticipated by the first quarter of 2023., July 2021: Georgia-Pacific Corporation announced plans to expand its production capacity for curbside recyclable paper padded mailers, responding to the growing demand for environmentally friendly shipping envelopes. The expansion will benefit customers in the Northeast and Southeast regions, including major companies like Amazon. The new manufacturing sites in Jonestown, Pennsylvania, and McDonough, Georgia, will complement the company's existing facility in the Phoenix area, which commenced operations in 2020 and is being expanded with the addition of a third production line.. Notable trends are: Increasing demand for eco-friendly packaging materials and rapid expansion of online retail are driving the market growth.

The filter paper and paperboard cut to shape market in Northern America is expected to experience continued growth over the next decade, with a projected increase in market volume and value by 2035.

Global paper demand in 2023 was dominated by containerboard product type, accounting for *** million tons, or roughly ** percent of total paper and paperboard demand. Traditional printing and writing paper products saw comparatively lower demand at ** million tons. Shifting trends in the global paper industry While graphic paper production declined by over ** percent between 2010 and 2023, packaging paper and board production increased by approximately ** percent during the same period. This trend aligns with the high demand for containerboard and shows the shift in the paper industry towards packaging materials, driven in part by the rise of e-commerce. Looking ahead, global containerboard demand is expected to surpass *** million tons by 2030, further cementing its position as the most consumed paper and paperboard type. Paper industry leaders worldwide China and the United States are the largest paper producers, with China's output reaching *** million metric tons in 2023. China also led global paper and paperboard consumption, utilizing over *** million metric tons in 2023, which represents ** percent of global consumption. The U.S. follows as the second-largest consumer, with these two nations together accounting for about half of worldwide paper and paperboard production and consumption.

This statistic shows the usage of toilet paper in the United States in 2020. The data has been calculated by Statista based on the U.S. Census data and Simmons National Consumer Survey (NHCS). According to this statistic, 326.38 million Americans used toilet paper in 2020.

Explore Market Research Intellect's Specialty Paper Consumption Market Report, valued at USD 25.5 billion in 2024, with a projected market growth to USD 35.2 billion by 2033, and a CAGR of 4.5% from 2026 to 2033.

Learn about the expected growth in the printing and writing paper market in the United States over the next decade, with an anticipated increase in market volume to 10M tons and market value to $16B by 2035.

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 machine finished paper market is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing demand across diverse applications. While precise figures for market size and CAGR are not provided, leveraging industry reports and understanding current market dynamics allows for reasonable estimations. Let's assume, for illustrative purposes, a 2025 market size of $15 billion (this is an example, replace with a realistic estimate based on your research). Considering the ongoing demand for packaging materials and the persistent use of paper in various sectors like publishing and retail, a conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3-4% over the forecast period (2025-2033) seems plausible. This growth is fueled by several factors, including the expanding e-commerce sector, which boosts the demand for packaging materials, and the relatively lower environmental impact of machine-finished paper compared to some alternative materials. However, restraints such as the rising popularity of digital alternatives and increasing concerns regarding deforestation continue to pose challenges to the market's expansion. The market is segmented by paper type (bleached and unbleached) and application (food packaging, book covers, retail packaging, and others), with food packaging currently dominating due to its extensive use in various food products. Key players in the market include major paper producers such as Heinzel Group, BillerudKorsnäs, Mondi Group, and Sappi, actively competing through product innovation and strategic partnerships to maintain their market share. Regional variations in consumption are also notable, with North America and Europe currently holding significant shares, while Asia-Pacific is projected to witness accelerated growth owing to its expanding economies and rising population. The steady yet moderate growth trajectory projected for the machine-finished paper market reflects a balance between persistent traditional applications and evolving consumer preferences and environmental considerations. While digitalization poses a threat, the market's adaptability and ongoing innovation in sustainable paper production technologies indicate resilience in the long term. The segmentation and regional variations reveal key opportunities for manufacturers to focus on specific applications and geographic areas to optimize growth strategies. Focusing on eco-friendly production and sustainable sourcing will be critical for long-term market success, catering to increasingly environmentally conscious consumers and regulatory requirements. Further growth will also depend on the ability of producers to meet the growing demand for specialized paper types suited to evolving packaging needs and other applications.

Market Analysis The global paper and paperboard packaging industry is projected to grow from a value of $398.65 million in 2025 to $629.54 million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.68% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions, increasing e-commerce activities, and growing consumption of packaged goods. The industry is highly fragmented, with key players including WestRock Company, Smurfit Kappa Group, Nippon Paper Industries Ltd., and DS Smith PLC. Market Segments and Regional Trends The paper and paperboard packaging industry is segmented based on production, consumption, import and export markets, and price trends. Production analysis reveals the dominance of Asia Pacific, followed by North America and Europe. Consumption analysis indicates a significant share of North America and Europe, while import and export market analyses highlight the key trading regions. Regional trends suggest that North America and Asia Pacific are projected to remain as the largest markets, driven by economic growth and a growing consumer base. Recent developments include: December 2022: WestRock Company announced it successfully acquired Grupo Gondi's remaining interest for USD 970 million plus debt assumption. The Grupo Gondi acquisition includes four paper mills, nine corrugated packaging facilities, and six high graphic facilities throughout Mexico. These facilities produce sustainable packaging for a variety of regional end markets. The company's dominant position in the expanding corrugated packaging, consumer goods, paperboard, and containerboard markets in Latin America will be strengthened by this acquisition., September 2022: Mondi concluded merging its Mondi Tire Kutsanand Mondi Olmuksan companies. The transaction created a new company called Mondi Turkey Oluklu Mukavva to Mondi's corrugated packaging business area. The company has nine corrugated packaging facilities, a containerboard mill in Tire, Turkey, and a wastepaper collection facility in Adana, Turkey, and it is traded on the Istanbul Stock Exchange (BIST). Mondi owns an 84.65% ownership in Mondi Turkey Oluklu Mukavva, which has around 1,600 workers.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Demand from the Food and Beverage Sector, Regulations on Plastic-based Packaging Products Contribute to Higher Demand; Increasing Growth of E-commerce Creates Demand for Various Paper and Paperboard Packaging Types. Potential restraints include: Concerns Regarding the Environment and Recycling. Notable trends are: Increase in Demand from the Food and Beverage Sector.

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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

Learn about the projected growth of the corrugated paper and paperboard market in Northern America over the next decade. Market performance is expected to increase slightly, with both volume and value forecasted to rise by 2035.