PPPC Reports NA April Paper Shipments

The Pulp and Paper Product Council reported North American coated mechanical paper shipments for April fell -8.8% as compared to the same month last year. Demand declined -2.8%. Imports jumped +27.2%. The operating rate was 83%. Coated woodfree shipments for the month were up +2.8%, demand increased +3.8% and imports rose +6.1%. The operating rate was 87%. Uncoated woodfree shipments fell -1%, demand declined -2% and imports were down -4.5%, The operating rate was 92%. SC-A/A+ paper shipments increased +30.8% and demand rose +19.1%. Imports declined -10.2%. SC-B/SNC+ shipments increased +5.1%, demand fell -2% and imports decreased -44.2%. The Supercalendered paper operating rate was 98%.