U.S. newsprint prices steady this month; Market helped by inventory building

The Northern American newsprint market held firm during the typically weak January 2000 period due to a carryover of December 1999 orders, consumer inventory rebuilding, and continued strength in newspaper advertising lineage. North American producers reported full order books in January and into February, citing inventory building by publishers as a factor. Advertising also boosted the market as the Internet boom contributes significantly to the business.