As I start my 52^nd year in the pulp and paper industry, I will have to say it is overall in the best condition that it has been in my lifetime. If your viewpoint is narrow and you focus only on fine papers and newsprint, you will likely disagree with me.

Consider, however, the following...

More people are using tissue products than ever before.

More corrugated boxes are being used than ever before.

Packaging usage is higher than ever, and we are making inroads into displacing plastic packaging.

Tube stock and void fill are at record rates of consumption.

Promising biocellulose products are coming to market.

Recycling rates are high.

Overall, senior management teams are behaving rather well, keeping an eye on inventory and funding innovation.

Is everything rosy? No.

We have excessive regulations, especially environmental regulations.

Now, you'll likely want to challenge me on this--I think our operating rates, ignoring market issues, are likely 10% - 15% below optimum. In other words, our internal management at the mills needs to be challenged. This is from my casual observations, not a statistically significant look.

Want a deeper dive? Go here.

Jim Thompson is CEO of Paperitalo Publications.