Stores nationwide are experiencing yet another toilet paper shortage, a terrible reminder of the pandemic era. But if you think this is a result of the massive port strike across the East Coast…think again.
As reported by CNN, social media was flooded with reports of shortages at several stores, including Walmart, Costco, and Target.
However, the lack of toilet paper and other supplies is not because of the port strike. In fact, the strike will have absolutely no impact on supply.
The majority of U.S. toilet paper consumption – more than 90% by some estimates – comes from domestic factories. Most of the rest come from Mexico and Canada, arriving by rail or truck.
The American Forest and Paper Association expressed concerns about the impact that the port strike could have. However, they cited the risk of exports to foreign markets being cut off, not imports.
So What Gives?!
The reason for the toilet paper shortages in stores, simply put, …