Toilet Paper Makers Confirm U.S. Port Strike Didn’t Lead to Shortages

Amid concerns sparked by a recent three-day strike at U.S. ports, toilet paper makers have assured consumers that there is no need to fear a shortage of products like Charmin. The American Forest and Paper Association, representing manufacturers of toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues, confirmed that the port strike did not disrupt tissue product deliveries in the U.S.

The reassurance came after reports surfaced of consumers stocking up on toilet paper—a familiar response during times of crisis, reminiscent of early COVID-19 pandemic behavior. The association highlighted that around 85% of tissue products in the U.S., including toilet paper and paper towels, are produced domestically and are therefore unaffected by the strike.

The union representing the striking dockworkers reached an agreement on Thursday to suspend the strike until January 15, allowing time for contract negotiations. The strike, which began on October 1, 2024, affected 36 ports along the East and Gulf coasts.