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The forest products industry is one of the largest manufacturing industries in America and plays a vital role in the U.S. economy. This industry is among the top 10 manufacturing employers in 44 states. It includes: 

  • Loggers
  • Wood products facilities
  • Pulp and paper mills
  • Paper and packaging converting operations

What is the Economic Impact of the U.S. Forest Products Industry?

The U.S. forest products industry is a major contributor to the American economy. The industry employs more than 925,000 people, accounts for a payroll of nearly $80 billion, and represents approximately 4.7% of U.S. manufacturing GDP.

The industry produces essential products used every day, including cardboard boxes, napkins, pizza boxes, paper cups, envelopes and more. These products support businesses, households and supply chains across the country.

The forest products industry also plays an important role in rural America. More than 75% of all U.S. pulp and paper mills are located in counties that are more than 80% rural, helping support jobs and economic activity in communities across the nation.

What Products Does the Forest Products Industry Make?

  • Cardboard boxes 
  • Toilet paper 
  • Printer paper 
  • Milk & juice cartons 
  • Cereal boxes 
  • Magazines 
  • Paper towels 
  • Paper bags 
  • Plywood & lumber 
  • Baby diapers
Explore the industry's products
925,000+

925,000+

People employed by the U.S. forest products industry

Nearly $80 B

Nearly $80 B

Industry payroll

4.7%

4.7%

Share of U.S. manufacturing GDP

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United States


The U.S. forest products industry directly employs more than 925,000 people. The industry supports an estimated 1.63 million additional jobs across suppliers and in local communities.

The forest products industry accounts for 4.7% of U.S. manufacturing GDP. 

The forest products industry produces products such as cardboard boxes, pizza boxes, cereal boxes and other paper packaging, pulp for diapers, toilet paper, paper for mail, and lumber. The U.S. forest products industry manufactures more than $435 billion in products.

The forest products industry supports rural communities through jobs, manufacturing and local economic activity. Paper mills and other forest products facilities provide year-round, good-paying jobs and often serve as major employers in rural towns and counties. 

That economic activity creates a ripple effect, supporting local restaurants and retailers, truck drivers, suppliers and other businesses. In turn, these jobs and businesses help families build their lives and stay rooted in the communities they call home.

The forest products industry includes:

  • Pulp and paper mills, including mills that use recycled paper
  • Paper and packaging converting plants
  • Logging operations
  • Wood products facilities
     

Photo credit: Domtar, Georgia-Pacific