Global production volume of paper and paperboard 2010-2021, by type

In 2021, approximately 96 million metric tons of graphic paper were produced worldwide. Meanwhile, packaging paper and board production amounted to 264 million metric tons. Overall, the quantity of paper and paperboard produced worldwide in 2021 weighed more than 417 million metric tons.

Demand for graphics papers is in decline

In today’s digitalized world, there is less need for graphic papers as many formats switch to paperless options. Between 2010 and 2021, the quantity of graphic papers produced worldwide fell by nearly 33 percent. In contrast, packaging paper and board production increased by roughly 30 percent during the same period. The growth in packaging paper demand has been partially driven by e-commerce. Corrugated material is now the most produced paper grade worldwide, accounting for 44 percent of paper production in 2021.

Where is paper produced?

The largest producers of paper and paperboard are China and the United States, which produced 125 million and 67.5 million metric tons worth in 2021, respectively. Paper production in China has risen rapidly in recent decades, while production in the United States has been in decline.