Why a Sudden Cardboard Box Slump Is Quietly Flashing Recession Warnings
Summary
The US cardboard industry experienced its worst quarter in years in Q1 2026, with containerboard production falling by over 8%. Because corrugated boxes are used to ship the vast majority of non-durable goods, analysts view this sector as a critical economic barometer. While some experts and political figures remain optimistic about growth, others point to the box slump, alongside rising unemployment and economic uncertainty, as indicators that a recession may be imminent.
(Source:BeInCrypto)