International Paper Insights March 2026

Energy costs are rising and geopolitical uncertainty is adding pressure to an already cautious economic environment. Gasoline and distillate prices have spiked to their highest level since 2022, though with energy goods accounting for just 2% of household spending, consumer exposure remains limited. Historical patterns suggest oil-driven inflation spikes tend to be temporary.

For packaging, corrugated volumes continue to run below prior year levels as demand stays measured.