The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released the Q1 2026 Containerboard Quarterly report.
According to the report, total containerboard production in Q1 2026 decreased 8 percent compared to the same quarter in 2025 in line with similar reductions in capacity. Operating rates remained essentially flat (-0.1 points) over the same period.
Recycled linerboard production reached a record high in March, though lower unbleached kraftliner output drove total liner production down 9 percent for the quarter.
Census-reported export shipments declined 19 percent in Q1 2026 versus the same quarter last year, due in part to evolving trade dynamics.
Mill inventories at the end of Q1 2026 are 3 percent lower than at the end of Q4 2025.
