Global production of paper and paperboard 2010-2023, by country

In 2023, China produced 133.7 million metric tons of paper and paperboard, making it the leading paper-producing country worldwide. The United States was the second-largest paper-producing country that year, with an output of 60.7 million metric tons. 

Global paper production

Global paper and paperboard production amounted to 401 million metric tons in 2023, one of the highest figures ever recorded. Asia is the largest paper-producing region by far, accounting for over half of global production - most of which was produced in China. This was followed by Europe, which produced over 20 percent of the world's paper and paperboard supply.

Paper trade

Although China is the largest producer of paper and paperboard, it is not the leading exporter of paper. Germany was the top exporter in 2023, with shipments totaling 12 million metric tons. The European country was followed by the United States.