UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 _____________________________________________________ 
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
ý ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 for
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017
or
12/31/2019
¨or
 TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission File No. 1-3157
INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
New York 13-0872805
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
6400 Poplar Avenue
Memphis,Tennessee
(Address of principal executive offices)
38197
(Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code:901419-9000
Memphis, Tennessee
(Address of principal executive offices)
38197
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (901) 419-9000
_____________________________________________________ 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $1 per share par valueSharesIPNew York Stock Exchange
_____________________________________________________ 
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
Yes ý    No ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.
Yes ¨    No ý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý   No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (section 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yesý   No ¨
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (section 229.405) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” andfiler,” “smaller reporting company”company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filerý
 
Accelerated filer¨
 
Non-accelerated filer¨
 
Smaller reporting company¨
 
Emerging growth company¨
  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)  
If emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13 (a) of the Exchange Act. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes  ¨   No ý
The aggregate market value of the Company’s outstanding common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant, computed by reference to the closing price as reported on the New York Stock Exchange, as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter (June 30, 2017)2019) was approximately $23,247,397,657.$17,018,195,033.
The number of shares outstanding of the Company’s common stock as of February 16, 201814, 2020 was 412,940,532.392,124,684.
Documents incorporated by reference:
Portions of the registrant’s proxy statement filed within 120 days of the close of the registrant’s fiscal year in connection with registrant’s 20182020 annual meeting of shareholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.

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INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY
INDEX TO ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 20172019
 
PART I. 
   
ITEM 1.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 1A.
ITEM 1B.
ITEM 2.
 
 
 
ITEM 3.
ITEM 4.
   
PART II. 
   
ITEM 5.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 7.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 















INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY
INDEX TO ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 20172019


ITEM 7A.
ITEM 8.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9.
ITEM 9A.
ITEM 9B.
   
PART III. 
   
ITEM 10.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 14.
   
PART IV. 
   
ITEM 15.
ITEM 16.FORM 10-K SUMMARY
APPENDIX I
APPENDIX II





International Paper Company (the “Company”Company or “InternationalInternational Paper, which may also be referred to as “we”we or “us”)us) is a global producer of renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper products with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, Europe, North Africa India and Russia. We are a New York corporation, incorporated in 1941 as the successor to the New York corporation of the same name organized in 1898. Our home page on the Internet is www.internationalpaper.com. You can learn more about us by visiting that site.our website at www.internationalpaper.com.
In the United States, at December 31, 20172019, the Company operated 2927 pulp, paper and packaging mills, 170163 converting and packaging plants, 16 recycling plants and three bag facilities. Production facilities at December 31, 20172019 in Canada, Europe, India, North Africa and Latin America included 1614 pulp, paper and packaging mills, 4744 converting and packaging plants, and two recycling plants. We operate a printing and packaging products distribution business principally through 9six branches in Asia. At December 31, 20172019, we owned or managed approximately 329,000 acres of forestland in Brazil and had, through licenses and forest management agreements, harvesting rights on government-owned forestlands in Russia. Substantially all of our businesses have experienced, and are likely to continue to experience, cycles relating to industry capacity and general economic conditions.
For management and financial reporting purposes, our businesses are separated into three segments: Industrial Packaging; Global Cellulose Fibers; and Printing Papers.
A description of these business segments can be found on pages 2325 and 2426 of Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. The Company’s 50%equity interestinterests in Ilim Holding S.A. ("Ilim") is(Ilim) and Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC (GPIP) are also a separate reportable industry segment.segments.
From 20132015 through 2017,2019, International Paper’s capital expendituresspending approximated $6.87.1 billion, excluding mergers and acquisitions. These expenditures reflect our continuing efforts to use our capital strategically to improve product quality and environmental performance, as well as lower costs and maintain reliability of operations. Capital spending in 20172019 was approximately $1.4$1.3 billion and is expected to be approximately $1.51.0 billion in 20182020. You can find more information about capital expendituresspending on page 2830 of Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
 
You can find discussions of restructuring charges and other special items on pages 2224 and 2325 of Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Throughout this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we “incorporate by reference” certain information in parts of other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC permits us to disclose important information by referring to it in that manner. Please refer to such information. Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, along with all other reports and any amendments thereto filed with or furnished to the SEC, are publicly available free of charge on the Investor Relations section of our Internet Web sitewebsite at www.internationalpaper.com as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. The information contained on or connected to our Web sitewebsite is not incorporated by reference into this Form 10-K and should not be considered part of this or any other report that we filed with or furnished to the SEC.
The financial information concerning segments is set forth in Note 19 Financial Information by Industry Segment and Geographic Area on pages 78 through 80 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
The financial information concerning international and U.S. operations and export sales is set forth in Note 19 Financial Information by Industry Segment and Geographic Area on page 80 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
The markets in the pulp, paper and packaging product linessectors are large and fragmented. The major markets, both U.S.fragmented, and non-U.S., inthe areas into which the Company sells its principal products are very competitive. Our products compete with similar products produced by other forest products companies. We also compete, in some instances, with companies in other industries and against substitutes for wood-fiber products.




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Many factors influence the Company’s competitive position, including price, cost, product quality and services. You can find more information about the impact of these factors on operating profits on pages 2019 through 2729 of Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. You can find information about the Company’s manufacturing capacities on page A-4 of Appendix II.



The Company sells products directly to end users and converters, as well as through agents, resellers and paper distributors.


The Company’s principal products are described on pages 2325 and 2426 of Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

SALES VOLUMES BY PRODUCT
Sales volumes of major products for 20172019, 20162018 and 20152017 were as follows:
Sales Volumes by ProductSALES VOLUMES BY PRODUCT (a)
 
In thousands of short tons (except as noted)201720162015201920182017
Industrial Packaging  
Corrugated Packaging (c)(b)10,413
10,392
10,284
10,454
10,624
10,413
Containerboard3,294
3,091
3,110
2,909
3,229
3,294
Recycling2,257
2,450
2,379
2,388
2,282
2,257
Saturated Kraft181
182
156
174
196
181
Gypsum/Release Kraft229
200
171
199
227
229
Bleached Kraft27
24
23
22
31
27
EMEA Packaging (c) (d)1,518
1,477
1,417
Asian Box (c) (e)
208
426
Brazilian Packaging (c)357
371
348
EMEA Packaging (b) (c)1,538
1,476
1,518
Brazilian Packaging (b)366
351
357
European Coated Paperboard398
393
381
417
390
398
Industrial Packaging18,674
18,788
18,695
18,467
18,806
18,674
Global Cellulose Fibers (in thousands of metric tons) (b)
3,708
1,870
1,575
Global Cellulose Fibers (in thousands of metric tons) (d)
3,501
3,573
3,708
Printing Papers  
U.S. Uncoated Papers1,915
1,872
1,879
1,799
1,886
1,915
European and Russian Uncoated Papers1,483
1,536
1,493
1,456
1,440
1,483
Brazilian Uncoated Papers1,167
1,114
1,125
1,172
1,125
1,167
Indian Uncoated Papers253
241
241
206
263
253
Printing Papers4,818
4,763
4,738
4,633
4,714
4,818


(a)Includes third-party and inter-segment sales and excludes sales of equity investees.
(b)Includes North American, European and Brazilian volumes and internal sales to mills. Includes sales volumes from the pulp business acquired beginning December 1, 2016.
(c)Volumes for corrugated box sales reflect consumed tons sold (CTS).sold. Board sales by these businesses reflect invoiced tons.
(d)(c)Excludes newsprint sales volumes at the Madrid, Spain mill.mill through Q3 2017.
(e)(d)Includes North American, European and Brazilian volumes and internal sales volumes through the date of sale on June 30, 2016.to mills.


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The Company operates its primary research and development center in Loveland, Ohio, as well as several other product development facilities, including the Global Cellulose Fibersa technology center in Federal Way, Washington.
We direct research and development activities to short-term, long-term and technical assistance needs of customers and operating divisions, and to process, equipment and product innovations. Activities include product development within the operating divisions; studies on innovation and improvement of pulping, bleaching, chemical recovery, papermaking,paper making, converting and coating processes; packaging design and materials development; mechanical packaging systems, environmentally sensitive printing inks and reduction of environmental discharges; re-use of raw materials in manufacturing processes; recycling of consumer and packaging paper products; energy conservation; applications of computer controls to manufacturing operations; innovations and improvement of products; and development of various new products. Our development efforts specifically
address product safety, as well as the minimization of solid waste. The cost to the Company of its research and development operations was $29 million in 2019, $30 million in 2018 and $28 million in 2017, $20 million in 2016, and $27 million in 2015.
We own numerous patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets and other intellectual property rights relating to our products and to the processes for their production. We also license intellectual property rights to and from others where advantageous or necessary. Many of the manufacturing processes are among our trade secrets. Some of our products are covered by U.S. and non-U.S. patents and are sold under well known trademarks. We derive a competitive advantage by protecting our trade secrets, patents, trademarks and other intellectual property rights, and by using them as required to support our businesses.


International Paper is subject to extensive federal and state environmental regulation, as well as similar regulations internationally. In addition, new environmental laws or regulations impacting our facilities around the world are routinely passed or proposed. Our continuing objectives include:

(1) controlling emissions and discharges from our facilities into the air, water and groundwater to avoid adverse impacts on the environment, and (2) maintaining compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The Company spent $86$70 million in 20172019 for capital projects to control environmental releases into the air and water, and to assure environmentally sound management and disposal of waste. We expect to spend $71$80 million in 20182020 for environmental capital projects. Capital expenditures for 20192021 environmental projects are anticipated to be approximately $87$85 million. Capital
expenditures for 20202022 environmental projects are estimated to be $73$65 million.

The 2017 spend included costs associated withCompany has completed capital projects to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Boiler MACT (maximum achievable control technology) regulations that require owners of specified boilers to meet revised air emissions standards for certain substances. Several lawsuits were filed to challengeAlthough certain aspects of litigation challenging all or portions of the Boiler MACT regulations. On December 23, 2016, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit remanded the Boiler MACT regulations to the EPA requiring the agency to revise emission standards for boiler subcategories that had been affected by flawed calculations. The Court determined that the existing MACT standards should remain in place while the revised standards are being developed, but didopen, we have not establish a deadline for the EPA to complete the rulemaking. The Company has completed its Boiler MACT capital projects to meet the existing regulations. We are not able to projectidentified any additional Boiler MACT capital project expenditures that might result from resolution of the open issues.
The Company has been named as ita potentially responsible party (PRP) in environmental remediation actions under various federal and state laws, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA). Many of these proceedings involve the cleanup of hazardous substances at large commercial landfills that received waste from many different sources. While joint and several liability is uncertain to what extentauthorized under CERCLA and equivalent state laws, as a practical matter, liability for CERCLA cleanups is typically allocated among the EPA will revise Boiler MACT standards thatmany PRPs. There are subject toother remediation costs typically associated with the remand.

Amendments lowering National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), fine particulate (PM2.5),cleanup of hazardous substances at the Company’s current, closed or formerly-owned facilities, and ozone have been finalized by the EPA in recent years but to date have not had a material impactrecorded as liabilities on the Company.balance sheet. For additional information regarding certain remediation actions, see Note 14 Commitments and Contingent Liabilities of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data on pages 65 through 68.




International Paper plays a significant role in responding to the climate change challenge. Our entire business depends upon the sustainability of forests. We transform renewable resources into recyclable products that people depend on every day. This cycle begins with sourcing renewable fiber from responsibly managed forests, and at the end of use our products are recycled into new products at a higher rate than any other base material. We endeavor to continue to lead the international business community in responsible forest stewardship to ensure healthy and productive forest ecosystems for generations to come. Our efforts to advance sustainable forest management and restore
forest landscapes are an important lever for mitigating climate change through carbon storage in forests. Furthermore, we use biomass and manufacturing residuals (rather than fossil fuels) to generate a substantial majority of the manufacturing energy at our mills.
In an effort to mitigate the potentialimpact of climate change impacts from human activities, various international, national and sub-national (regional, state and local) governmental actions have been or may be undertaken. Presently, these efforts have not materially impacted International Paper, but such efforts may have a material impact on the Company in the future.

INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS
International Efforts

A successor program to the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, theThe Paris Agreement, went into effect in November 2016 and continued international efforts and voluntary commitments toward reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Consistent with this objective, participating countries aim to balance GHG emissions generation and removalsequestration in the second half of this century or, in effect, achieve net-zero global GHG emissions.

As part of the Paris Agreement, many countries including the U.S. and EU member states, established non-binding emissions reduction targets. TheFor instance, the U.S. made a non-binding commitment is forto hold GHG emissions to be 7% below 2005 GHG emissions levels by 2020 and 26% to 28% below by 2025. Other countries in which we do businessoperate made similar non-binding commitments. On

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August 4, 2017, the U.S. filed official notice to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. Notwithstanding the notice of withdrawal by the U.S., the Company’sCompany��s voluntary GHG reductions, which are set out in our annual Global Citizenship report, remain roughly in line with the percentages of the U.S. prior target reductions. It is not clear at this time what, if any, further reductions by the Company might be required by the countries in which we operate. Due to this uncertainty, it is not possible at this time to estimate the potential impacts of these agreements on the Company.
To assist member countries in meeting GHG reduction obligations, under the Kyoto Protocol, the EU established and continues to operateoperates an Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). Currently, we have two sites directly subject to regulation under Phase III of the EU ETS, one in Poland and one in France. Other sites that we operate in the EU experience indirect impacts of the EU ETS through purchased power pricing. Neither the direct nor indirect impacts of the EU ETS have been material to the Company, but they could be material to the Company in the future depending on how the Paris Agreement's non-binding commitments or allocation of and market prices for GHG credits under existing rules evolve over the coming years.


U.S. EffortsEFFORTS, INCLUDING STATE, REGIONAL AND LOCAL MEASURES
In theThe U.S., the 1997 Kyoto Protocol was not ratified and Congress has not passed GHG legislation. The EPA however, enactedmanages regulations to: (i) control GHGs from mobile sources by adopting transportation fuel efficiency standards; (ii) control GHG emissions from new Electric Generating Units (EGUs); (iii) control emissions from new oil and gas processing operations and (iv) require reporting of GHGs from sources of GHGs greater than 25,000 tons per year; (iv)year.
Several U.S. states, including states in 2015, require states to develop plans to reduce GHGs from utility EGUs and (v) in 2016 EPA took the first steps in the process of developing emissions standards for existing sources in the oil and gas sector.The 2017 change in leadership of the U.S. executive branch may result in significant revisions to or rescission of the EPA's GHG regulations. It is unclear what impacts, if any, the EPA's GHG regulatory revisions and any other future revisions will have on the Company’s operations.

In 2015, EPA promulgated the Clean Power Plan (CPP) rule to address climate change by reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) and other designated greenhouse gas pollutant emissions from utility EGUs. In response, states were to develop and begin implementing programs to reduce GHGs from EGUs by about 32 percent by the 2022 to 2033 timeframe as compared to 2005 baseline levels. In October 2017, the EPA issued a regulatory action to withdraw the CPP in its entirety. Notwithstanding the withdrawal of the CPP, some states have remained committed to reaching the reduction targets set out in the CPP. These GHG reduction plans,
if implemented, could pose potential cost increases for electricity purchased by the Company. The magnitude of cost increases to the Company, if any, are not possible to estimate reliably at this time.
State, Regional and Local Measures

A few U.S. stateswhich we operate facilities, have enacted or are considering legal measures to require the reduction of emissions of GHGs by companies and public utilities, primarily through the development of GHG emission inventories or regional GHG cap-and-trade programs.utilities. California, hasNew York and Virginia have already enacted such programs, although these regulations have not, and are not expected to have a program and similar actions are being considered by Oregon. The Company does not have any sites currently subject to California's GHG regulatory plan and sincematerial impact on the Oregon program is still being developed, it is too early to know how or if Company owned sites in Oregon may be affected. There may be indirect impacts from changing input costs (such as electricity) at some of our California converting operations but these have yet to manifest themselves in material impacts. Although weCompany. We are monitoring proposed programs in other states, however it is unclear what impacts, if any, state-level GHG rules will have on the Company’s operations. Further state measures are under substantive review as they respond to the withdrawal of the EPA’s CPP.

Summary

SUMMARY
Regulation of GHGs continues to evolve in various countries in which we do business. While it is likely that there will be increased governmental action regarding GHGs and climate change any material impact toin the Companyfuture, it is not likely tounclear when such actions will occur before 2020 and at this time it is not reasonably possible to estimate Company costs of compliance with rules that have not yet been adopted or implemented and may not be adopted or implemented in the future. In addition to possible direct impacts, future legislation and regulation could have indirect impacts on International Paper, such as higher prices for transportation, energy and other inputs, as well as more protracted air permitting processes, causing delays and higher costs to implement capital projects. International Paper has controls and procedures in place to stay informed about developments concerning possible climate change legislation and regulation in the U.S. and in other countries where we operate. We regularly assess whether such legislation or regulation may have a material effect on the Company, its operations or financial condition, and whether we have any related disclosure obligations.

International Paper plays a significant role in responding to the climate change challenge. Our entire business depends upon the sustainability of forests. We transform renewable resources into recyclable products that people depend on every day. This cycle begins with

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sourcing renewable fiber from responsibly managed forests, and at the end of use our products are recycled into new products at a higher rate than any other base material. We will continue to lead the world in responsible forest stewardship to ensure healthy and productive forest ecosystems for generations to come. Our efforts to advance sustainable forest management and restore forest landscapes are an important lever for mitigating climate change through carbon storage in forests. Furthermore, we use biomass and manufacturing residuals (rather than fossil fuels) to generate a substantial majority of the manufacturing energy at our mills.

Additional information regarding climate change and International Paper is available in our 20162018 Global Citizenship report found on our Internet Web sitewebsite at www.internationalpaper.com, though this information is not incorporated by reference into this Form 10-K and should not be considered part of this or any other report that we file with or furnish to the SEC.

As of December 31, 2017,2019, we have approximately 56,00051,000 employees, nearly 36,00033,000 of whom are located in the United States. Of theour U.S. employees,
approximately 25,00023,000 are hourly, with unions representing approximately 15,00014,000 employees. Approximately 12,00011,000 of this number are represented by the United Steelworkers union (USW).

International Paper, the USW, and several other unions have entered into two master agreements covering various mills and converting facilities. These master agreements cover several specific items, including wages, select benefit programs, successorship, employment security, and health and safety.  Individual facilities continue to have local agreements for other subjects not covered by the master agreements.  If local facility agreements are not successfully negotiated at the time of expiration, under the terms of the master agreements the local contracts will automatically renew with the same terms in effect. The master agreements cover the majority of our union represented mills and converting facilities. In addition, International Paper is party to a master agreement with District Council 2, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, covering additional converting facilities.




Mark S. Sutton, 56, 58, chairman (since January 1, 2015) & chief executive officer (since November 1, 2014). Mr. Sutton previously served as president & chief operating officer from June 1, 2014 to October 31, 2014, senior vice president - industrial packaging from November 2011 to May 31, 2014, senior vice president - printing and communications papers of the Americas
from 2010 until 2011, senior vice president - supply chain from 2008 to 2009, vice president - supply chain from 2007 until 2008, and vice president - strategic planning from 2005 until 2007. Mr. Sutton joined International Paper in 1984. Mr. Sutton serves on the board of directors of The Kroger Company. He is a member of The Business Council, and the Business Roundtable and serves on the American Forest & Paper Association board of directors, The Business Roundtable board of directors, and the international advisory board of the Moscow School of Management - Skolkovo. He was appointed chairman of the U.S. Russian Business Council and was also appointed to the U.S. Section of the U.S.-Brazil CEO Forum.Council. He also serves on the board of directors offor Memphis Tomorrow and board of governors for New Memphis Institute. Mr. Sutton has been a director since June 1, 2014.


W. Michael Amick, Jr., 54, 56, senior vice president - paper the Americas & India since January 1, 2017. Mr. Amick previously served as senior vice president - North American papers & consumer packaging from July 2016 until December 2016, senior vice president - North American papers, pulp & consumer packaging from November 2014 until June 2016, vice president - president, IP India, from August 2012 to October

2014, and vice president and general manager for the coated paperboard business from 2010 to 2012. Mr. Amick joined International Paper in 1990.


C. Cato Ealy, 61,Clay R. Ellis, 49, senior vice president - corporate developmententerprise operational excellence since 2003.December 2019. Mr. Ealy is a directorEllis previously served as vice president - manufacturing, global cellulose fibers from 2016 to December 2019, vice president of Ilim Holding S.A., a Swiss holding company in which International Paper holds a 50% interest,pulp from 2014 to 2016, and of its subsidiary, Ilim Group.vice president manufacturing, North American papers from 2012 to 2014. Mr. EalyEllis joined International Paper in 1992.


W. Thomas Hamic, 54, senior vice president - containerboard and enterprise commercial excellence since December 2019. Mr. Hamic previously served as vice president and general manager - containerboard & recycling, North American containerfrom June 2015 until December 2019. Mr. Hamic became vice president and general manager of the south area in container of the Americas in 2009, and he was appointed to the role of vice president, industrial packaging group’s finance & strategy in 2010. Mr. Hamic joined International Paper in 1991.

Tommy S. Joseph, 58, 60, senior vice president until his retirement effective February 29, 2020. Mr. Joseph previously served as senior vice president - manufacturing, technology, EH&S and global sourcing sincefrom January 2010.2010 until October 2019. Mr. Joseph has also previously served as senior vice president - manufacturing, technology, EH&S from February 2009 until December 2009, and vice president - technology from 2005 until February 2009. Mr. Joseph is a director of Ilim Holding S.A., a Swiss Holding Company in which International Paper holds a 50% interest, and of its subsidiary, Ilim Group. Mr. Joseph joined International Paper in 1983.1982.


Glenn R. Landau, 49,Timothy S. Nicholls, 58, senior vice president & chief financial officer since February 22, 2017.June 2018. Mr. LandauNicholls previously served as senior vice president - finance from January 1, 2017 to February 22, 2017, senior vice president - president, IP Latin America from November 2014 through December 2016, vice president - president IP Latin America from 2013 to October 2014, vice president - investor relations from 2011 to 2013, and vice president and general manager, containerboard and recycling from 2007 to 2011. Mr. Landau serves on the board of directors of Factory

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Mutual Insurance Company (FM Global). Mr. Landau joined International Paper in 1991.

Timothy S. Nicholls, 56, senior vice president - industrial packaging the Americas sincefrom January 1, 2017. Mr. Nicholls previously served as2017 through June 2018, senior vice president - industrial packaging from November 2014 through December 2016, senior vice president - printing and communications papers of the Americas from November 2011 through October 2014, senior vice president and chief financial officer from 2007 until 2011, vice president and executive project leader of IP Europe during 2007, and vice president and chief financial officer - IP Europe from 2005 until 2007. Mr. Nicholls joined International Paper in 1991.1999.


Thomas J. Plath, 54, 56, senior vice president - human resources and global citizenship since March 1, 2017. Mr. Plath previously served as vice president - human resources, global businesses from November 2014 through February 2017, and vice president - HR manufacturing, technology, EH&S and global supply
chain from April 2013 to November 2014. Mr. Plath joined International Paper in 1991.


Jean-Michel Ribieras, 55, 57, senior vice president - industrial packaging the Americas since June 2018. Mr. Ribieras previously served as senior vice president - global cellulose fibers sincefrom July 2016. Mr. Ribieras previously served as2016 through June 2018, senior vice president - president, IP Europe, Middle East, Africa & Russia from 2013 until June 2016, and president - IP Latin America from 2009 until 2013. Mr. Ribieras joined International Paper in 1993.


James P. Royalty, Jr., 50, senior vice president and president, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Russia since December 2019. Most recently, Mr. Royalty served as vice president, corporate development and disruptive technologies from September 2018 until December 2019, vice president, strategic projects from 2017 until 2018, vice president, investor relations from 2013 until 2017, vice president and general manager, container the Americas in 2008 to 2013. Mr. Royalty joined International Paper in 1991.

Sharon R. Ryan, 58, 60, senior vice president, general counsel & corporate secretary since November 2011. Ms. Ryan previously served as vice president, acting general counsel & corporate secretary from May 2011 until November 2011, vice president from March 2011 until May 2011, associate general counsel, chief ethics and compliance officer from 2009 until 2011, and associate general counsel from 2006 until 2009. Ms. Ryan joined International Paper in 1988.


John V. Sims, 55, 57, senior vice president - corporate development since December 2019. Mr Sims previously served as senior vice president - president, IP Europe, Middle East, Africa & Russia sincefrom July 2016.2016 until December 2019. Mr. Sims also previously served as vice president and general manager, European papers from MarchJanuary 2016 until June 2016, vice president & general manager, North American papers from 20132014 until February 2016,December 2015, and vice president, finance and strategy, industrial packaging, from 2009 until 2013. Mr. Sims is a director of Ilim Holding S.A., a Swiss Holding Company in which International Paper holds a 50% interest, and of its subsidiary, Ilim Group. Mr. Sims joined International Paper in 1994.


Catherine I. Slater, 54, 56, senior vice president - global cellulose fibers & IP Asia since JanuaryJune 2018. Ms. Slater previously served as senior vice president - consumer packaging from December
2016 tothrough December 2017. Ms. Slater joined International Paper from Weyerhaeuser Company in December 2016, effective with the completion of the acquisition of Weyerhaeuser’s cellulose fibers business, which she previously led. Ms. Slater’s 24-year career with Weyerhaeuser included leadership roles in manufacturing, printing papers,

consumer products, wood products and the cellulose fibers business.


Gregory T. Wanta, 52, 54, senior vice president - North American container since NovemberDecember 2016. Mr. Wanta has served in a variety of roles of increasing responsibility in manufacturing and commercial leadership roles in specialty papers, coated paperboard, printing papers, foodservice and industrial packaging, including vice president, central region, Container the Americas, from January 2012 through October 2016. Mr. Wanta joined International Paper in 1991.



Raw materials essential to our businesses include wood fiber, purchased in the form of pulpwood, wood chips and old corrugated containers (OCC), and certain chemicals, including caustic soda and starch. InformationFor further information concerning fiber supply purchase agreements, that were entered into in connection with the Company’s 2006 Transformation Plan, the 2008 acquisition of Weyerhaeuser Company’s Containerboard, Packaging and Recycling business, and the 2016 acquisition of Weyerhaeuser's pulp business is presented in onsee page 30.31.



Certain statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K (including the exhibits hereto) that are not historical in nature may be considered “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are often identified by the words, “will,” “may,” “should,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “plan,” “appear,” “project,” “estimate,” “intend,” and words of a similar nature. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and reflect management’s current views with respect to future events, which are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Factors which could cause actual results to differ include but are not limited to: (i) the level of our indebtedness and changes in interest rates; (ii) industry conditions, including but not limited to changes in the cost or availability of raw materials, energy and transportation costs, competition we face, cyclicality and changes in consumer preferences, demand and pricing for our products; (iii) domestic and global economic conditions and political changes, including but not limited to the

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impairment of financial institutions, changes in currency exchange rates, trade protectionist policies, downgrades in our credit ratings and/or the credit ratings of banks issuing certain letters of credit, issued by recognized credit rating organizations, (iv) the amount of our future pension funding obligation, changes in tax lawsobligations, and pension and health care costs; (iv)(v) unanticipated expenditures or other adverse developments related to the cost of compliance with existing and new environmental, tax, labor and employment, privacy, and other U.S. and non-U.S. governmental regulationslaws and to actual or potential litigation; (v)regulations; (vi) whether we experience a material disruption at one of our
manufacturing facilities; (vi)(vii) risks inherent in conducting business through a joint venture; and (vii)ventures; (viii) our ability to achieve the benefits we expect from, alland other risks associated with, acquisitions, joint ventures, divestitures and restructurings.other corporate transactions, (ix) information technology risks, and (x) loss contingencies and pending, threatened or future litigation, including with respect to environmental matters. These and other factors that could cause or contribute to actual results differing materially from such forward lookingforward-looking statements are discussed in greater detail below in “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial could affect the accuracy of any forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.



The Company faces risks in the normal course of business and through global, regional, and local events that could have an adverse impact on its reputation, operations, and financial performance. The Board of Directors exercises oversight of the Company’s enterprise risk management program, which includes strategic, operational and financial matters, as well as compliance and legal risks. The Audit and Finance Committee coordinates the risk oversight role exercised by the Board’s standing committees and management, and it receives updates on the risk management processes twice per year.
In addition to the risks and uncertainties discussed elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K (particularly in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations), or in the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the following are some important factors that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statement. If any of the events or circumstances described in any of the following risk factors occurs, our business, results of operations and/or financial condition could be materially and adversely affected, and our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated in any forward-looking statements we make in any public disclosures.
RISKS RELATING TO INDUSTRY CONDITIONS
CHANGES IN THE COST OR AVAILABILITY OF RAW MATERIALS, ENERGY AND TRANSPORTATION COULD AFFECT OUR PROFITABILITY. We rely heavily on the use of certain raw materials (principally virgin wood fiber, recycled fiber, caustic soda and starch), energy sources (principally biomass, natural gas, coalelectricity and fuel oil) and third-party companies that transport our goods. The market price of virgin wood

fiber varies based upon availability and source. The global supply and demand for recycled fiber may be affected by trade policies between countries, individual governments' legislation and regulations, as well as changes in the global economy. In addition, the increase in demand of products manufactured, in whole or in part, from recycled fiber, on a global basis, may cause an occasional tighteningsignificant fluctuations in the supply of recycled fiber.fiber prices. Energy prices, in particular prices for oil and natural gas, have fluctuated dramatically in the past and may continue to fluctuate in the future. The availability of labor and the market price for fuel may affect our costs for third-party transportation. Our profitability has been, and will continue to be, affected by changes in the costs and availability of such raw materials, energy sources and transportation sources.
THE INDUSTRIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE EXPERIENCE BOTH ECONOMIC CYCLICALITY AND CHANGES IN CONSUMER PREFERENCES. FLUCTUATIONS IN THE PRICES OF, AND THE DEMAND FOR, OUR PRODUCTS COULD MATERIALLY AFFECT OUR FINANCIAL CONDITION, RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND
CASH FLOWS. Substantially all of our businesses have experienced, and are likely to continue to experience, cycles relating to industry capacity and general economic conditions. The length and magnitude of these cycles have varied over time and by product. In addition, changes in consumer preferences may increase or decrease the demand for our products.fiber-based products and non-fiber substitutes. Moreover, consumer preferences are constantly changing based on, among other factors, cost, convenience and health, environmental and social concerns and perceptions. These consumer preferences affect the prices of our products. Consequently, our financial results are sensitive to changes in the pricing and demand for our products.
COMPETITION IN THE UNITED STATES AND INTERNATIONALLY COULD NEGATIVELY IMPACT OUR FINANCIAL RESULTS. We operate in a competitive environment, both in the United States and internationally, in all of our operating segments. Product innovations, manufacturing and operating efficiencies, and marketing, distribution and pricing strategies pursued or achieved by competitors could negatively impact our financial results.
RISKS RELATING TO MARKET AND ECONOMIC FACTORS
ADVERSE DEVELOPMENTS IN GENERAL BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC CONDITIONS COULD HAVE AN ADVERSE EFFECT ON THE DEMAND FOR OUR PRODUCTS AND OUR FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS. General economic conditions may adversely affect industrial non-durable goods production, consumer spending, commercial printing and advertising activity, white-collar
employment levels and consumer confidence, all of which impact demand for our products. In addition, volatility in the capital and credit markets, which impacts interest rates, currency exchange rates and the availability of credit, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and our results of operations.
CHANGES IN INTERNATIONAL CONDITIONS COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR BUSINESS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.Our operating results and business prospects could be substantially affected by risks related to the countries outside the United States in which we have manufacturing facilities or sell our products. Specifically, Russia, Brazil, Poland, and Turkey, where we have substantial manufacturing facilities, are countries that are exposed to economic and political instability in their respective regions of the world. Fluctuations in the value of local currency versus the U.S. dollar, downturns in economic activity, adverse tax consequences or rulings, nationalization or any change in social, political or labor conditions in any of these countries or regions impacting matters such as sustainability, environmental regulations and trade policies and agreements, could negatively affect our financial results. In addition, outbreak of a widespread health epidemic, such as a coronavirus, influenza and other highly communicable diseases or viruses, could also adversely impact our operating results and business prospects, including if operations of our customers are adversely impacted. In this regard, while we do not currently expect that our financial results will be significantly and adversely affected by the COVID-19 virus that was first detected in Wuhan, China in December 2019, there continue to be significant uncertainties associated with the COVID-19 virus, including with respect to the ultimate geographic spread of the virus, the severity of the disease, the duration of the outbreak, and actions that may be taken by Chinese or other governmental authorities to contain the COVID-19 virus or to treat its impact, and the extent to which the COVID-19 outbreak may impact our financial results, including as the result of its possible impact on the Chinese or global economy, is not certain.
Trade protection measures in favor of local producers of competing products, including governmental subsidies, tax benefits and other measures giving local producers a competitive advantage over International Paper, may also adversely impact our operating results and business prospects in these countries. Likewise, disruption in existing trade agreements or increased trade friction between countries (e.g., the U.S. and China), which can result in tariffs, could have a negative effect on our business and results of operations by restricting the free flow of goods and services across borders. In addition, our international operations are subject to regulation under U.S. law and other laws related to operations in foreign jurisdictions. For

example, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act prohibits U.S. companies and their representatives from offering, promising, authorizing or making payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business abroad, and the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control and other non-U.S. government entities maintain economic sanctions targeting various countries, persons and entities. Failure to comply with domestic or foreign laws could result in various adverse consequences, including the imposition of civil or criminal sanctions and the prosecution of executives overseeing our international operations.
THE LEVEL OF OUR INDEBTEDNESS COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR FINANCIAL CONDITION AND IMPAIR OUR ABILITY TO OPERATE OUR BUSINESS.As of December 31, 20172019, International Paper had approximately $11.2$9.8 billion of outstanding indebtedness. The level of our indebtedness could have important consequences to our financial condition, operating results and business, including the following:
it may limit our ability to obtain additional debt or equity financing for working capital, capital expenditures, product development, dividends, share repurchases, debt service requirements, acquisitions and general corporate or other purposes;
a portion of our cash flows from operations will be dedicated to payments on indebtedness and will not be available for other purposes, including

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operations, capital expenditures and future business opportunities;
the debt service requirements of our indebtedness could make it more difficult for us to satisfy other obligations;
our indebtedness that is subject to variable rates of interest exposes us to increased debt service obligations in the event of increased interest rates;
it may limit our ability to adjust to changing market conditions and place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt; and
it may increase our vulnerability to a downturn in general economic conditions or in our business, and may make us unable to carry out capital spending that is important to our growth.
In addition, we are subject to agreements governing our indebtedness that require meetingus to meet and maintainingmaintain certain financial ratios and covenants. A significant or prolonged downturn in general business and economic conditions, or other significant adverse developments with respect to our results of operations or financial condition, may affect our ability to comply with these covenants or meet those financial ratios and tests and could require us to take action to reduce our debt or to act in a manner contrary to our current business objectives. Moreover, the restrictions associated with
these financial ratios and covenants may prevent us from taking actions that we believe would be in the best interest of our business and may make it difficult for us to execute our business strategy successfully or effectively compete with companies that are not similarly restricted. Additionally, despite these restrictions, we may be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future, which might subject us to additional restrictive covenants that could affect our financial and operational flexibility and otherwise increase the risks associated with our indebtedness as noted above.

Moreover, certain of our variable rate debt uses the London Interbank Offering Rate (“LIBOR”) as a benchmark for establishing the interest rate. The U.K. Financial Conduct Authority announced in 2017 that it intends to phase out LIBOR by the end of 2021. In addition, other regulators have suggested reforming or replacing other benchmark rates. The discontinuation, reform or replacement of LIBOR or any other benchmark rates may have an unpredictable impact on contractual mechanics in the credit markets or cause disruption to the broader financial markets. Additionally, uncertainty as to the nature of such potential discontinuation, reform or replacement may negatively impact the cost of our variable rate debt.
CHANGES IN CREDIT RATINGS ISSUED BY NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED STATISTICAL RATING ORGANIZATIONS COULDADVERSELY AFFECT OUR COST OF FINANCING AND HAVE AN ADVERSEEFFECT ON THE MARKET PRICE OF OUR SECURITIES.Maintaining an investment-grade credit rating is an important element of our financial strategy, and a downgrade of the Company’s ratings below investment grade will likely eliminate our ability to access the commercial paper market, may limit our access to the capital markets, have an adverse effect on the market price of our securities, increase our cost of borrowing and require us to post collateral for derivatives in a net liability position. The Company’s desire to maintain its investment grade rating may cause the Company to take certain actions designed to improve its cash flow, including sale of assets, suspension or reduction of our dividend and reductions in capital expenditures and working capital.
Under the terms of the agreements governing approximately $1.4 billion of our debt as of December 31, 20172019, the applicable interest rate on such debt may increase upon each downgrade in our credit rating below investment grade. As a result, a downgrade in our credit rating below investment grade may lead to an increase in our interest expense. There can be no assurance that such credit ratings will remain in effect for any given period of time or that such ratings will not be lowered, suspended or withdrawn entirely by the rating agencies, if, in each rating agency’s judgment,
circumstances so warrant. Any such downgrade,

suspension or withdrawal of our credit ratings could adversely affect our cost of borrowing, limit our access to the capital markets or result in more restrictive covenants in agreements governing the terms of any future indebtedness that we may incur.
DOWNGRADES IN THE CREDIT RATINGS OF BANKS ISSUING CERTAIN LETTERS OF CREDIT WILL INCREASE OUR COST OF MAINTAINING CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS AND MAY RESULT IN THE ACCELERATION OF DEFERRED TAXES. We are subject to the risk that a bank with currently issued irrevocable letters of credit supporting installment notes, including those delivered to Temple-Inland in connection with Temple-Inland's 2007 sales of forestlands, may be downgraded below a required rating. Since 2007, certain banks have fallen below the required ratings threshold and were successfully replaced, or waivers were obtained regarding their replacement. As a result of continuing uncertainty in the banking environment, a number of the letter-of-credit banks currently in place remain subject to risk of downgrade and the number of qualified replacement banks remains limited. The downgrade of one or more of these banks may subject the Company to additional costs of securing a replacement letter-of-credit bank or could result in an acceleration of payments of up to $538$485 million in deferred income taxes if replacement banks cannot be obtained. The deferred taxes are currently recorded in the Company's consolidated financial statements. See Note 12,15, Variable Interest Entities, on pages 6368 through 64,70, and Note 10,13, Income Taxes, on pages 5762 through 60,65, in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
OUR PENSION AND HEALTH CARE COSTS ARE SUBJECT TO NUMEROUS FACTORS WHICH COULD CAUSE THESE COSTS TO CHANGE. We have defined benefit pension plans covering substantially all U.S. salaried employees hired prior to July 1, 2004 (or later for certain acquired populations, as described in Note 19. Retirement Plans, on pages 75 through 81, in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data) and substantially all hourly union and unionnon-union employees regardless of hire date. The Company has frozen participation under these plans for U.S. salaried employees, including credited services and compensation on or after January 1, 2019; however, the pension freeze does not affect benefits accrued through December 31, 2018. We provide retiree health care benefits to certain former U.S. hourly employees, as well as financial assistance towards the cost of individual retiree medical coverage for certain former U.S. salaried employees. Our pension costs are dependent upon numerous factors resulting from actual plan experience and assumptions of future experience. Pension plan assets are primarily made up of equity and fixed income investments. Fluctuations in actual equity market returns, changes in general interest rates and changes
in the number of retirees may result in increasedimpact pension costs in future periods. Likewise, changes in assumptions regarding current discount rates and expected rates of return on plan assets could increase pension costs. Drivers for fluctuating health costs include unit cost changes, health care utilization by participants, and potential legislative impacts and government oversight.
OUR PENSION PLANS ARE CURRENTLY UNDERFUNDED ON A PROJECTED BENEFIT OBLIGATION BASIS, AND OVER TIME WE MAY BE

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REQUIRED TO MAKE CASH PAYMENTS TO THE PLANS, REDUCING THE CASH AVAILABLE FOR OUR BUSINESS.We record a liability associated with our pension plans equal to the excess of the benefit obligation over the fair value of plan assets. The benefit liability recorded under the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 715, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits,” at December 31, 20172019 was $2.0$1.6 billion. The amount and timing of future contributions, which could be material, will depend upon a number of factors, including the actual earnings and changes in values of plan assets and changes in interest rates.
CHANGES IN INTERNATIONAL CONDITIONSRISKS RELATING TO OUR OPERATIONS
MATERIAL DISRUPTIONS AT ONE OF OUR MANUFACTURING FACILITIES COULD ADVERSELY AFFECTNEGATIVELY IMPACT OUR BUSINESS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS. Our operating resultsFINANCIAL RESULTS. We operate our facilities in compliance with applicable rules and business prospectsregulations and take measures to minimize the risks of disruption at our facilities. A material disruption at our corporate headquarters or one of our manufacturing facilities could be substantially affected by risks related to the countries outside the United States in which we haveprevent us from meeting customer demand, reduce our sales and/or negatively impact our financial condition. Any of our manufacturing facilities, or sellany of our products. Specifically, Russia, Brazil, Poland, India,machines within an otherwise operational facility, could cease operations unexpectedly due to a number of events, including:
fires, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes or other catastrophes;
the effect of a drought or reduced rainfall on its water supply;
the effect of other severe weather conditions on equipment and Turkey, where we have substantialfacilities;
disruption in the supply of raw materials or other manufacturing facilities, are countries that are exposedinputs;
terrorism or threats of terrorism;
information system disruptions or failures due to economicany number of causes, including cyber-attacks;
domestic and political instabilityinternational laws and regulations applicable to our Company and our business partners, including joint venture partners, around the world;

unscheduled maintenance outages;
prolonged power failures;
an equipment failure;
a chemical spill or release;
explosion of a boiler or other equipment;
damage or disruptions caused by third parties operating on or adjacent to one of our manufacturing facilities;
disruptions in their respective regionsthe transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, railroad tracks and tunnels;
a widespread outbreak of an illness or any other communicable disease, such as the recent outbreak of the world. FluctuationsCOVID-19 virus in the value of local currency versus the U.S. dollar, downturns in economic activity, adverse tax consequences, nationalizationChina, or any changeother public health crisis;
failure of our third party service providers and business partners to satisfactorily fulfill their commitments and responsibilities in social, politicala timely manner and in accordance with agreed upon terms;
labor difficulties; and
other operational problems.
Any such downtime or labor conditions in anyfacility damage could prevent us from meeting customer demand for our products and/or require us to make unplanned expenditures. If one of these countriesmachines or regionsfacilities were to incur significant downtime, our ability to meet our production targets and satisfy customer requirements could negatively affect our financial results. Trade protection measuresbe impaired, resulting in favor of local producers of competing products, including governmental subsidies, tax benefitslower sales and other measures giving local producers a competitive advantage over International Paper, may also adversely impact our operating results and business prospects in these countries. Likewise, disruption in existing trade agreements (e.g., NAFTA) or increased trade friction between countries (e.g., the U.S. and China) could havehaving a negative effect on our business and resultsfinancial results.
CERTAIN OPERATIONS ARE CONDUCTED BY JOINT VENTURES THAT WE CANNOT OPERATE SOLELY FOR OUR BENEFIT.Certain operations in Russia are carried on by a joint venture, Ilim. In joint ventures, we share ownership and management of operations by restrictinga company with one or more parties who may or may not have the free flowsame goals, strategies, priorities or resources as we do. In general, joint ventures are intended to be operated for the benefit of goodsall co-owners, rather than for our exclusive benefit. Operating a business as a joint venture often requires additional organizational formalities as well as time-consuming procedures for sharing information and services across borders.making decisions. In joint ventures, we are required to pay more attention to our relationship with our co-owners as well as with the joint venture, and if a co-owner changes, our relationship may be adversely affected. In addition, the benefits from a successful joint venture are shared among the co-owners, so we receive only our international operationsportion of those benefits.
WE MAY NOT ACHIEVE THE EXPECTED BENEFITS FROM STRATEGIC ACQUISITIONS, JOINT VENTURES, DIVESTITURES, CAPITAL INVESTMENTS AND OTHER CORPORATE TRANSACTIONS THAT WE HAVE PURSUED OR MAY PURSUE. Our strategy for long-term growth, productivity and profitability depends, in part, on our ability to accomplish prudent acquisitions, joint ventures, divestitures, capital investments and other corporate transactions that we may pursue and to realize the benefits we expect from such transactions, and we are subject to regulation under U.S. lawthe risk that we may not achieve the expected benefits. This failure could require us to record an impairment charge for goodwill or other intangible assets, which could lead to decreased assets and reduced net earnings. Among the benefits we expect from potential as well as completed acquisitions and joint ventures are synergies, cost savings, growth opportunities or access to new markets (or a combination thereof), and in the case of divestitures, the realization of proceeds from the sale of businesses and assets to purchasers who place higher strategic value on such businesses and assets than does International Paper.

Corporate transactions of this nature which we may pursue involve a number of special risks, including with respect to our inability to realize our business goals with respect to such transactions as noted above, the focus of our management’s attention on these transactions and the assimilation of acquired businesses into our operations, the demands on our financial, operational and information technology systems resulting from acquired businesses, and the possibility that we may become responsible for substantial contingent or unanticipated legal liabilities as the result of acquisitions or other laws relatedcorporate transactions.
WE ARE SUBJECT TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RISKS RELATED TO BREACHES OF SECURITY PERTAINING TO SENSITIVE COMPANY, CUSTOMER, EMPLOYEE AND VENDOR INFORMATION AS WELL AS BREACHES IN THE TECHNOLOGY USED TO MANAGE OPERATIONS AND OTHER BUSINESS PROCESSES.Our business operations rely upon secure information technology systems for data capture, processing, storage and reporting. Despite careful security and controls design, implementation, updating and independent third party verification, our information technology systems, and those of our third party providers or joint venture partners, could become subject to operations in foreign jurisdictions. For example, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act prohibits U.S. companiesemployee error or malfeasance, cyber attacks by common hackers, criminal groups or nation-state organizations or social activist (hacktivist) organizations, geopolitical events, natural disasters, failures or impairments of telecommunications networks or other catastrophic events. Network, system, application and their representatives from offering, promising, authorizing or making payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business abroad. Failure to comply with domestic or foreign laws data breaches

could result in various adverse consequences,operational disruptions or information misappropriation including, the impositionbut not limited to, interruption to systems availability, denial of civilaccess to and misuse of applications required by our customers to conduct business with International Paper. Access to applications required to plan our operations, source materials, manufacture and ship finished goods and account for orders could be denied or criminal sanctionsmisused. Theft of intellectual property or trade secrets, and the prosecutioninappropriate disclosure of executives overseeingconfidential company, employee, customer or vendor information, could stem from such incidents. Any of these operational disruptions and/or misappropriation of information could result in lost sales, business delays, negative publicity and could have a material effect on our international operations.business.
RISKS RELATING TO LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AND COMPLIANCE COSTS


WE ARE SUBJECT TO A WIDE VARIETY OF LAWS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER GOVERNMENT REQUIREMENTS THAT MAY CHANGE IN SIGNIFICANT WAYS, AND THE COST OF COMPLIANCE WITH SUCH REQUIREMENTS COULD IMPACT OUR BUSINESS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.Our operations are subject to regulation under a wide variety of U.S. federal and state and non-U.S. laws, regulations and other government requirements -- including, among others, those relating to the environment, health and safety, labor and employment, data privacy, tax, trade and health care. There can be no assurance that laws, regulations and government requirements will not be changed, applied or interpreted in ways that will require us to modify our operations and objectives or affect our returns on investments by restricting existing activities and products, subjecting them to escalating costs.


For example, we have incurred, and expect that we will continue to incur, significant capital, operating and other expenditures complying with applicable environmental laws and regulations. Our environmental expenditures include, among other areas, those related to air and water quality, waste disposal and the cleanup of contaminated soil and groundwater, including situations where we have been identified as a potentially responsible party. Moreover, we may be directly impacted by, and are working to manage, the risks and costs to us, our customers and our vendors of the effects of climate change, greenhouse gases, and the availability of energy and water resources. These risks include the potentially adverse impact on forestlands, which are a key resource in the production of our products, increased product costs and a change in the types of products that customers purchase. We also face risks arising from the increased public focus, including by governmental and nongovernmental organizations, on these and other environmental sustainability matters, such as packaging and waste, deforestation, and land
use. These risks also include the increased pressure to make commitments, set targets, or establish additional goals and take actions to meet them. These risks could expose us to market, operational, and execution costs or risks. There can be no assurance that future remediation requirements and compliance with existing and new laws and requirements including with global climate change laws and regulations, will not require significant expenditures, or that existing reserves for specific matters will be adequate to cover future costs. We could also incur substantial fines or sanctions, enforcement actions (including orders limiting our operations or requiring corrective measures), natural resource damages claims, cleanup and closure costs, and third-party claims for property damage and personal injury as a result of violations of, or liabilities under, environmental laws, regulations, codes and common law. The amount and timing of environmental expenditures is difficult to predict, and, in some cases, liability may be imposed without regard to contribution or to whether we knew of, or caused, the release of hazardous substances.


As another example,Additionally, we are subject to a number of laborcomplex and employmentevolving U.S. and international privacy laws and regulations, that could significantly increase our operating costs and reduce our operational flexibility. Additionally, changing privacy laws inincluding those pertaining to the United States, Europe and elsewhere, including the adoptionhandling of the European Union ofpersonal data, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR),(“GDPR”) and the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (“CCPA”). The GDPR, which will becomebecame effective on May 25, 2018, createswith respect to all member states of the European Union, includes operational requirements for companies receiving or processing personal data of EU residents that are partially different from those that had previously been in place and includes significant penalties for noncompliance. The CCPA, which went into effect on January 1, 2020, affords California residents and households expanded privacy protections. Moreover, governmental authorities around the world are considering, or are in the process of implementing, new individual privacy rightsdata protection regulations.

Many of these laws and imposes increased obligations on companies handling personal data. Compliance with the stringent rules under GDPR will require an extensive review ofregulations are subject to uncertain application, interpretation or enforcement standards that could result in claims, changes to our globalbusiness practices, data processing and security systems, which is ongoing. A failurepenalties, increased operating costs or other impacts on our businesses. The recently enacted laws often provide for civil penalties for violations, as well as private rights of action for data breaches that may increase data breach litigation. IP proactively uses internal and external resources to monitor compliance with relevant legislation and continually evaluates and, where necessary, modifies its data processing practices and policies in order to comply with GDPRevolving privacy laws. Nevertheless, relevant regulatory authorities could result in fines updetermine that our data handling practices fail to 20 million Euros address all the requirements of certain new laws, which could subject us to penalties and/or 4%litigation. In addition, there is no assurance that our security controls over personal data, the training of annual global revenues, whichever is higher.employees and vendors

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personal data. Improper disclosure of personal data in violation of the GDPR, the CCPA and/or of other personal data protection laws could harm our reputation, cause loss of consumer confidence, subject us to government enforcement actions (including fines), or result in private litigation against us, which could result in loss of revenue, increased costs, liability for monetary damages, fines and/or criminal prosecution, all of which could negatively affect our business and operating results.


As a final example, the application of tax law is subject to interpretation and is subject to audit by taxing authorities. Additionally, administrative guidance can be incomplete or vary from legislative intent, and therefore the application of the tax law is uncertain. While we believe the positions reported by the Company comply with relevant tax laws and regulations, taxing authorities could interpret our application of certain laws and regulations differently. We are currently subject to tax audits in December 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts, Brazil, Poland, Russia and Jobs Act (the "Tax Act"). The Tax Act makes broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code. For a discussion of the immediate and potential impacts to the Company of the Tax Act and the uncertaintiesother taxing jurisdictions around the Company's current estimatesworld. In some cases, we have appealed and may continue to appeal, assessments by taxing authorities in the court system. As such, tax controversy matters may result in previously unrecorded tax expenses, higher future tax expenses or the assessment of such impacts, see Note 10, Income Taxes.interest and penalties.

RESULTS OF LEGAL PROCEEDINGS COULD HAVE A MATERIAL EFFECT ON OUR CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. The costsRESULTS. We are a party to various legal, regulatory and governmental proceedings and other effects of pending litigation against us cannot be determinedrelated matters, including with certainty. Althoughrespect to environmental matters. In addition, we do not believe that the outcome of any pending or threatened lawsuits or claims will have a material effect on our business or consolidated financial statements, there can be no assurance that the outcome of any lawsuit or claim will be as expected.
RISKS RELATING TO OUR OPERATIONS
MATERIAL DISRUPTIONS AT ONE OF OUR MANUFACTURING FACILITIES COULD NEGATIVELY IMPACT OUR FINANCIAL RESULTS. We operate our facilities in compliance with applicable rulesare and regulations and take measures to minimize the risks of disruption at our facilities. A material disruption at our corporate headquarters or one of our manufacturing facilities could prevent us from meeting customer demand, reduce our sales and/or negatively impact our financial condition. Any of our manufacturing facilities, or any of our machines within an otherwise operational facility, could cease operations unexpectedly due to a number of events, including:
fires, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes or other catastrophes;
the effect of a drought or reduced rainfall on its water supply;
the effect of other severe weather conditions on equipment and facilities;
terrorism or threats of terrorism;
domestic and international laws and regulations applicable to our Company and our business partners, including joint venture partners, around the world;
unscheduled maintenance outages;
prolonged power failures;
an equipment failure;
a chemical spill or release;

explosion of a boiler or other equipment;
damage or disruptions caused by third parties operating on or adjacent to one of our manufacturing facilities;
disruptions in the transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, railroad tracks and tunnels;
widespread outbreak of an illness or any other communicable disease, or any other public health crisis;
labor difficulties; and
other operational problems.
Any such downtime or facility damage could prevent us from meeting customer demand for our products and/or require us to make unplanned expenditures. If one of these machines or facilities were to incur significant downtime, our ability to meet our production targets and satisfy customer requirements could be impaired, resulting in lower sales and having a negative effect on our business and financial results.
WE ARE SUBJECT TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RISKS RELATED TO BREACHES OF SECURITY PERTAINING TO SENSITIVE COMPANY, CUSTOMER, EMPLOYEE AND VENDOR INFORMATION AS WELL AS BREACHES IN THE TECHNOLOGY USED TO MANAGE OPERATIONS AND OTHER BUSINESS PROCESSES. Our business operations rely upon secure information technology systems for data capture, processing, storage and reporting. Despite careful security and controls design, implementation, updating and independent third party verification, our information technology systems, and those of our third party providers, couldmay become subject to employee errorother loss contingencies, both known and unknown, which may relate to past, present and future facts, events, circumstances and occurrences. Should an unfavorable outcome occur in connection with our legal, regulatory or malfeasance, cyber attacks,governmental proceedings or natural disasters. Network, system, application and data breaches could resultother loss contingencies, or if we become subject to any such loss contingencies in operational disruptions or information misappropriation including, but not limited to, interruption to systems availability, denial of access to and misuse of applications required by our customers to conduct business with International Paper. Access to internal applications required to plan our operations, source materials, manufacture and ship finished goods and account for ordersthe future, there could be denied or misused. Theft of intellectual property or trade secrets, and inappropriate disclosure of confidential company, employee, customer or vendor information, could stem from such incidents. Any of these operational disruptions and/or misappropriation of information could result in lost sales, business delays, negative publicity and could have a material effectadverse impact on our business.


10

Table of Contents

CERTAIN OPERATIONS ARE CONDUCTED BY JOINT VENTURES THAT WE CANNOT OPERATE SOLELY FOR OUR BENEFIT. Certain operations in Russia are carried on by a joint venture, Ilim. In joint ventures, we share ownership and management of a company with one or more parties who may or may not have the same goals, strategies, priorities or resources as we do. In general, joint ventures are intended to be operated for the benefit of all co-owners, rather than for our exclusive benefit. Operating a business as a joint venture often requires additional organizational formalities as well as time-consuming procedures for sharing information and making decisions. In joint ventures, we are required to pay more attention to our relationship with our co-owners as well as with the joint venture, and if a co-owner changes, our relationship may be adversely affected. In addition, the benefits from a successful joint venture are shared among the co-owners, so we receive only our portion of those benefits.
WE MAY NOT ACHIEVE THE EXPECTED BENEFITS FROM ACQUISITIONS, JOINT VENTURES, DIVESTITURES AND OTHER CORPORATE TRANSACTIONS. Our strategy for long-term growth, productivity and profitability depends, in part, on our ability to accomplish prudent acquisitions, joint ventures, divestitures and other corporate transactions and to realize the benefits we expect from such transactions, and we are subject to the risk that we may not achieve the expected benefits. Among the benefits we expect from potential as well as completed acquisitions and joint ventures are synergies, cost savings, growth opportunities or access to new markets (or a combination thereof), and in the case of divestitures, the realization of proceeds from the sale of businesses and assets to purchasers who place higher strategic value on such businesses and assets than does International Paper.
On January 1, 2018, for example, we completed a transaction transferring our North American Consumer Packaging business to Graphic Packaging in exchange for, among other things, an equity interest in the combined business of 20.5%, as of immediately following the closing, and the assumption by the combined business of $660 million of indebtedness that we incurred prior to closing of the transaction. The success of the transaction will depend, in part, on the financial performance of the combined business and on the ability of the combined business to realize anticipated growth opportunities, cost savings and other synergies. The success of the combined business in realizing these growth opportunities, cost savings and other synergies, and the timing of this realization, will depend on the successful integration of our North American Consumer Packaging business with Graphic Packaging's business.results.




None.




As of December 31, 2017,2019, the Company owned or managed approximately 329,000 acres of forestlands in Brazil, and had, through licenses and forest management agreements, harvesting rights on government-owned forestlands in Russia. All owned
lands in Brazil are independently third-party certified for sustainable forestry under the Brazilian National Forest Certification Program (CERFLOR) and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

A listing of our production facilities by segment, the vast majority of which we own, can be found in Appendix I hereto, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The Company’s facilities are in good operating condition and are suited for the purposes for which they are presently being used. We continue to study the economics of modernization or adopting other alternatives for higher cost facilities.


Given the size, scope and complexity of our business interests, we continually examine and evaluate a wide variety of business opportunities and planning alternatives, including possible acquisitions and sales or other dispositions of properties. You can find a discussion about the level of planned capital investments for 20182020 on page 28,30, and dispositions and restructuring activities as of December 31, 2017,2019, on pages 21 and 2223 through 25 of Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and on pages 51 and pages 53 through 55page 56 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Information concerning the Company’scertain legal proceedings of the Company is set forth in Note 1114 Commitments and ContingenciesContingent Liabilities on pages 6065 through 6368 of Item  8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. which is incorporated herein by reference.
Additionally, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Company are currently in negotiations to enter into a settlement of violations by the Company’s Pensacola mill of its wastewater effluent discharge permit chronic toxicity limit. The settlement would include penalties totaling $1.1 million and require the mill to engage in certain corrective actions.


Not applicable.

11




ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Dividend per share data on the Company’s common stock and the high and low sales prices for the Company’s common stock for eachAs of the four quarters in 2017 and 2016 are set forth on page 81 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. As of
the filing of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company’s common shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange.Exchange (NYSE: IP). As of February 16, 2018,14, 2020, there were approximately 11,7669,663 record holders of common stock of the Company.


We pay regular quarterly cash dividends and expect to continue to pay regular quarterly cash dividends in the foreseeable future, though each quarterly dividend payment is subject to review and approval by our Board of Directors. Our ability to pay dividends is, and in the
future may continue to be, limited by the terms of our debt documents.
The table below presents information regarding the Company’s purchasepurchases of its equity securities for the time periods presented.






PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.
PeriodTotal Number of Shares Purchased (a)Average Price Paid per ShareTotal Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced ProgramsMaximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (in billions)
October 1, 2017 - October 31, 201778
$56.82

$0.933
November 1, 2017 - November 30, 2017


0.933
December 1, 2017 - December 31, 20175,257
56.96

0.933
Total5,335
   
PeriodTotal Number of Shares Purchased (a)Average Price Paid per ShareTotal Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced ProgramsMaximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (in billions)
October 1, 2019 - October 31, 2019
$

$1.75
November 1, 2019 - November 30, 2019205
43.68

1.75
December 1, 2019 - December 31, 20195,357
46.34

1.75
Total5,562
   


(a)5,3355,562 shares were acquired from employees from share withholdings to pay income taxes under the Company’s restricted stock programs. During these periods, no2019, 10,828,416 shares were purchased under our share repurchase program, which was approved by our Board of Directors and announced on July 8, 2014.2014 and October 9, 2018. Through this program, which does not have an expiration date, we were authorized to purchase, in open market transactions (including block trades), privately negotiated transactions or otherwise, up to $1.5$3.5 billion aggregate amount of shares of our common stock. As of February 16, 2018,14, 2020, approximately $933 million$1.75 billion aggregate amount of shares of our common stock remained authorized for purchase under this program.














































 













































12


PERFORMANCE GRAPH
The performance graph shall not be deemed to be “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the Commission or subject to Regulation 14A or 14C under, or to the liabilities of Section 18 of, the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 
The following graph compares a $100 investment in Company stock on December 31, 20122014 with a $100 investment in our Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) Peer Group and the S&P 500 also made at market close on December 31, 2012.2014. The graph portrays total return, 2012–2017,2014–2019, assuming reinvestment of dividends.



roeye2014ipa021a.jpg

Note 1:1. The companies included in the ROIC Peer Group are Domtar Inc., Fibria Celulose S.A., Graphic Packaging Holding Company, Klabin S.A., Metsa Board Corporation, Mondi Group, Packaging Corporation of America, Smurfit Kappa Group, Stora Enso Group, and UPM-Kymmene Corp. MeadWestvaco Corp. and Rock-Tenn Company are included in the ROIC Peer Group results through 2014 and subsequently, after the merger of those companies, WestRock was added to the Peer group beginning in 2015.
Note 2: Returns are calculated in $USD.

13

Table2016 after the merger of ContentsMeadWestvaco and Rock-Tenn. Fibria Celulose S.A. was excluded at the end of 2018 due to being acquired by Suzano.
Note 2.Returns are calculated in $USD.

FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY (a)
Dollar amounts in millions, except per share amounts and stock prices2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS                    
Net sales$21,743
  $19,495
  $20,675
  $21,889
  $21,244
  $22,376
  $23,306
  $21,743
  $19,495
  $20,675
  
Costs and expenses, excluding interest20,323
  18,180
  18,988
  20,548
  19,540
  20,281
  20,989
  20,323
  18,180
  18,988
  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings848
(b)  
795
(e) 
1,132
(h)  
734
(k) 
1,092
(n)  
1,604
(b)  
1,781
(e) 
848
(h)  
795
(k) 
1,132
(n)  
Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes177
  198
  117
 (200)  (39)  250
  336
  177
 198
  117
  
Discontinued operations, net of taxes34
(c)  
102
(f) 
85
(i) 
77
(l) 
(215)
(o) 


345
(f) 
34
(i) 
102
(l) 
85
(o) 
Net earnings (loss)2,144
(b-d)  
902
(e-g)  
917
(h-j) 
536
(k-m)  
1,378
(n-p)  
1,220
(b-c)  
2,017
(e-g)  
2,144
(h-j) 
902
(k-m)  
917
(n-p)  
Noncontrolling interests, net of taxes
  (2)  (21)  (19)  (17)  (5)
(d) 
5
  
  (2)  (21)  
Net earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper Company2,144
(b-d)  
904
(e-g) 
938
(h-j) 
555
(k-m)  
1,395
(n-p)  
1,225
(b-d)  
2,012
(e-g) 
2,144
(h-j) 
904
(k-m)  
938
(n-p)  
FINANCIAL POSITION                    
Current assets less current liabilities$3,175
  $2,601
  $2,244
  $2,719
  $3,597
  $(2,007)  $2,302
  $3,175
  $2,601
  $2,244
  
Plants, properties and equipment, net13,265
  13,003
  11,000
  11,794
  12,745
  13,004
  13,067
  13,265
  13,003
  11,000
  
Forestlands448
  456
  366
  507
  557
  391
  402
  448
  456
  366
  
Financial assets of variable interest entities7,088
 7,070
 7,051
 7,033
 7,014
 
Total assets33,903
  33,093
  30,271
  28,369
  31,242
  33,471
  33,576
  33,903
  33,093
  30,271
  
Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt311
  239
  426
  742
  661
  168
  639
  311
  239
  426
  
Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities4,220
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt10,846
  11,075
  8,844
  8,584
  8,787
  9,597
  10,015
  10,846
  11,075
  8,844
  
Long-term nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities2,085
 6,298
 6,291
 6,284
 6,277
 
Total shareholders’ equity6,522
  4,341
  3,884
  5,115
  8,105
  7,713
  7,362
  6,522
  4,341
  3,884
  
BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS                    
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$5.11
  $1.95
  $2.05
  $1.12
 $3.63
  $3.10
  $4.07
  $5.11
  $1.95
 $2.05
  
Discontinued operations0.08
  0.25
  0.20
  0.18
 (0.48) 
  0.84
  0.08
  0.25
 0.20
 
Net earnings (loss)5.19
  2.20
  2.25
  1.30
 3.15
 3.10
  4.91
  5.19
  2.20
 2.25
 
DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS                    
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$5.05
  $1.93
  $2.03
  $1.10
 $3.59
  $3.07
  $4.02
  $5.05
  $1.93
 $2.03
  
Discontinued operations0.08
  0.25
  0.20
  0.19
 (0.48) 
  0.83
  0.08
  0.25
 0.20
 
Net earnings (loss)5.13
  2.18
  2.23
  1.29
 3.11
  3.07
  4.85
  5.13
  2.18
 2.23
  
Cash dividends1.863
  1.783
  1.640
  1.450
  1.250
  2.013
  1.925
  1.863
  1.783
  1.640
  
Total shareholders’ equity15.79
  10.56
  9.43
  12.18
  18.57
  
COMMON STOCK PRICES                    
High$58.96
  $54.68
  $57.90
  $55.73
  $50.33
  $48.24
  $66.94
  $58.96
  $54.68
  $57.90
  
Low49.60
  32.50
  36.76
  44.24
  39.47
  36.45
  37.55
  49.60
  32.50
  36.76
  
Year-end57.94
  53.06
  37.70
  53.58
  49.03
  46.05
  40.36
  57.94
  53.06
  37.70
  
FINANCIAL RATIOS                    
Current ratio1.6
  1.6
  1.6
  1.5
  1.7
  0.8
  1.5
  1.6
  1.6
  1.6
  
Total debt to capital ratio0.63
  0.72
  0.70
  0.65
  0.54
  0.56
  0.59
  0.63
  0.72
  0.70
  
Return on shareholders’ equity43.9%
22.1%
20.0%
7.7%
20.2%
16.2%
28.4%
43.9%
22.1%
20.0%
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES$1,391
  $1,348
  $1,487
  
$1,366
  
$1,198
  $1,276
  $1,572
  $1,391
  $1,348
  $1,487
  
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES56,000
  55,000
  56,000
  58,000
  64,000
  51,000
  53,000
  56,000
  55,000
  56,000
  














 















14


FINANCIAL GLOSSARY
Current ratio—
current assets divided by current liabilities.
Total debt to capital ratio—
long-term debt plus notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt divided by long-term debt, notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt and total shareholders’ equity.
Return on shareholders’ equity—
net earnings attributable to International Paper Company divided by average shareholders’ equity (computed monthly).
FOOTNOTES TO FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY
 
(a)All prior periods presented have been restated to reflect the North American Consumer Packaging business xpedx business, and the Temple-Inland Building Productsxpedx business as discontinued operations (excluding cash flow related items) and prior period amounts have been adjusted to conform with current year presentation, if applicable.

2019:
(b)Includes the following charges (gains):
  2019
In millions Before Tax After Tax
India impairment $159
 $157
India divestiture transaction costs 3
 2
Global Cellulose Fibers goodwill impairment 52
 42
Litigation reserves 41
 31
Italian antitrust fine 32
 32
Environmental remediation reserve adjustment 25
 19
(Gain) loss on sale of EMEA Packaging box plant (6) (5)
EMEA Packaging business optimization 17
 14
Multi-employer pension plan exit liability 9
 6
Abandoned property removal 50
 38
Riverdale mill conversion costs 5
 4
Foreign VAT refund accrual including interest (6) (4)
Debt extinguishment costs 21
 16
Gain on sale of previously closed Oregon mill site (9) (7)
Overhead cost reduction initiative 21
 16
Other items 4
 4
Total special items $418
 $365
Non-operating pension expense 36
 28
Total $454
 $393







(c)Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
In millions 2019
Luxembourg statutory tax rate change $9
State income tax legislative changes (3)
Foreign tax audits 3
Internal investment restructuring (53)
Foreign deferred tax valuation allowance 203
Total $159

(d)Includes the following allocation of loss:
  2019
In millions Before Tax After Tax
India Impairment $9
 $9
Total $9
 $9

2018:
(e)Includes the following charges (gains):
  2018
In millions Before Tax After Tax
Smurfit-Kappa acquisition proposal costs $12
 $9
Legal settlement 9
 7
Litigation settlement recovery (5) (4)
Environmental remediation reserve adjustment 9
 7
EMEA Packaging business optimization 47
 34
Abandoned property removal 32
 24
Riverdale mill conversion costs 9
 7
Brazil Packaging impairment 122
 81
Debt extinguishment costs 10
 7
Gain on sale of investment in Liaison Technologies (31) (23)
Total special items $214
 $149
Non-operating pension expense 494
 371
Total $708
 $520

(f)Includes the following charges (gains):
  2018
In millions Before Tax After Tax
North American Consumer Packaging transaction costs $25
 $19
North American Consumer Packaging gain on transfer (488) (364)
Total $(463) $(345)

(g)Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
In millions 2018
State income tax legislative changes $9
Tax benefit of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (36)
Internal investment restructuring 19
Foreign tax audits 25
Total $17



2017:
(b) Includes the following charges (gains):
(h)Includes the following charges (gains):
  2017
In millions Before Tax After Tax
Gain on sale of investment in ArborGen $(14) $(9)
Costs associated with the pulp business acquired in 2016 33
 20
Amortization of Weyerhaeuser inventory fair value step-up 14
 8
Holmen bargain purchase gain (6) (6)
Abandoned property removal 20
 13
Kleen Products settlement 354
 219
Asia Foodservice sale 9
 4
Brazil Packaging wood supply accelerated amortization 10
 7
Debt extinguishment costs 83
 51
Interest income on income tax refund claims (5) (3)
Other items (2) (2)
Total special items $496
 $302
Non-operating pension expense 484
 298
Total $980
 $600


(c) Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business for the full year. Also includes the following charges (gains):
(i)Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business for the full year. Also includes the following charges (gains):
  2017
In millions Before Tax After Tax
North American Consumer Packaging transaction costs $17
 $10
Non-operating pension expense 45
 28
Total $62
 $38


(j)Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):

In millions 2017
International legal entity restructuring $34
Income tax refund claims (113)
Cash pension contribution 38
International tax law change 9
Tax benefit of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (1,222)
Total $(1,254)















 

2016:
(k)Includes the following charges (gains):
(d)
  2016
In millions Before Tax After Tax
Riegelwood mill conversion costs $9
 $6
India Packaging evaluation write-off 17
 11
Write-off of certain regulatory pre-engineering costs 8
 5
Early debt extinguishment costs 29
 18
Costs associated with the newly acquired pulp business 31
 21
Asia Box impairment / restructuring 70
 58
Gain on sale of investment in Arizona Chemical (8) (5)
Turkey mill closure
 7
 6
Amortization of Weyerhaeuser inventory fair value step-up 19
 11
Total special items $182
 $131
Non-operating pension expense 610
 375
Total $792
 $506

(l)Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business for the full year. Also includes the following charges (gains):
  2016
In millions Before Tax After Tax
xpedx legal settlement $8
 $5
Total $8
 $5


(m)Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
In millions 2017
International legal entity restructuring $34
Income tax refund claims (113)
Cash pension contribution 38
International Tax Law Change 9
Tax benefit of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (1,222)
Tax impact of other special items $(1,254)
In millions 2016
Cash pension contribution $23
U.S. Federal audit (14)
Brazil goodwill (57)
International legal entity restructuring (6)
Luxembourg tax rate change 31
Total $(23)


2016:
(e) Includes the following charges (gains):

  2016
In millions Before Tax After Tax
Riegelwood mill conversion costs $9
 $6
India Packaging evaluation write-off 17
 11
Write-off of certain regulatory pre-engineering costs 8
 5
Early debt extinguishment costs 29
 18
Costs associated with the newly acquired pulp business 31
 21
Asia Box impairment / restructuring 70
 58
Gain on sale of investment in Arizona Chemical (8) (5)
Turkey mill closure
 7
 6
Amortization of Weyerhaeuser inventory fair value step-up 19
 11
Total special items $182
 $131
Non-operating pension expense 610
 375
Total $792
 $506



(f) Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business for the full year. Also includes the following charges (gains):

  2016
In millions Before Tax After Tax
xpedx legal settlement $8
 $5
Total $8
 $5



(g) Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):

In millions 2016
Cash pension contribution $23
U.S. Federal audit (14)
Brazil goodwill (57)
International legal entity restructuring (6)
Luxembourg tax rate change 31
Tax impact of other special items $(23)













15


2015:
(n)Includes the following charges (gains):
(h) Includes the following charges (gains):
  2015
In millions Before Tax After Tax
Riegelwood mill conversion costs, net of proceeds from sale of the Carolina Coated Bristols brand $8
 $4
Timber monetization restructuring 16
 10
Early debt extinguishment costs 207
 133
IP-Sun JV impairment 174
 180
Legal reserve adjustment 15
 9
Refund and state tax credits (4) (2)
Impairment of Orsa goodwill and trade name intangible 137
 137
Other items 6
 5
Total special items $559
 $476
Non-operating pension expense 258
 157
Total $817
 $633

(i) Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business for the full year .

(j) Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
In millions 2015
IP-Sun JV impairment $(67)
Cash pension contribution 23
Other items 7
Tax impact of other special items $(37)

2014:
(k) Includes the following charges (gains):
  2014
In millions Before Tax After Tax
Temple-Inland integration $16
 $10
Courtland mill shutdown 554
 338
Early debt extinguishment costs 276
 169
India legal contingency resolution (20) (20)
Multi-employer pension plan withdrawal liability 35
 21
Foreign tax amnesty program 32
 17
Asia Industrial Packaging goodwill impairment 100
 100
Loss on sale by investee and impairment of investment 47
 36
Other items 12
 9
Total special items $1,052
 $680
Non-operating pension expense 212
 129
Total $1,264
 $809








 
(l) Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business and the xpedx business prior to the spin-off and the following charges (gains):
(o)Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business for the full year.

(p)Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
  2014
In millions Before Tax After Tax
xpedx spinoff $24
 $16
Building Products divestiture 16
 9
xpedx restructuring 1
 (1)
Total $41
 $24
In millions 2015
IP-Sun JV impairment $(67)
Cash pension contribution 23
Other items 7
Total $(37)


(m) Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):

In millions 2014
State legislative tax change $10
Internal restructuring (90)
Other items (1)
Tax impact of other special items $(81)


2013:
(n) Includes the following charges (gains):
  2013
In millions Before Tax After Tax
Temple-Inland integration $62
 $38
Courtland mill shutdown 118
 72
Early debt extinguishment costs 25
 16
Insurance reimbursement related to legal settlement (30) (19)
India Papers tradename and goodwill impairment 127
 122
Fair value adjustment of company airplanes 9
 5
Cass Lake environmental reserve 6
 4
Bargain purchase adjustment - Turkey (13) (13)
Other items (5) 2
Total special items $299
 $227
Non-operating pension expense 323
 197
Total $622
 $424

(o) Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business and the xpedx business for the full year, and the Temple-Inland Building Products business through the date of sale in July 2013. Also includes the following charges (gains):
  2013
In millions Before Tax After Tax
xpedx spinoff $22
 $14
xpedx goodwill impairment 400
 366
Building products divestiture 23
 19
Shut down of paper machine at Augusta mill 45
 28
xpedx restructuring 32
 19
Total $522
 $446

(p) Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
In millions 2013
Settlement of U.S. federal tax audits $(744)
Income tax reserve release (31)
Other items 1
Tax impact of other special items $(774)

16



The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included in “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In addition to historical consolidated financial information, the following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates, and beliefs that involve significant risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to those differences include those discussed below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, particularly in “Risk Factors” and “Forward-Looking Statements.”
The following generally discusses 2019 and 2018 items and year-to-year comparisons between 2019 and 2018. Discussion of historical items in 2017, and year-to-year comparisons between 2018 and 2017, can be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, filed with the SEC on February 20, 2019, under Part II, Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.



Full-year 2019 net earnings were $1.2 billion ($3.07 per diluted share) compared with net earnings of $2.0 billion ($4.85 per diluted share) for full-year 2018.

International Paper delivered solid earnings and outstanding cash generation in 2019. Our performance demonstrates our ability to generate strong cash flow and the flexibility of the company to navigate well through a yearchallenging global environment. While the U.S. economy remains healthy, during 2019 we managed through significant inventory headwinds and broader trade tensions that impacted our exports. Against this backdrop, we focused on optimizing our full value chain by strengthening commercial offerings in faster growing packaging segments, running our manufacturing system well and leveraging the flexibility of strong performance in 2017, driven by excellent commercial execution across our businesses. Our Global Cellulose Fibers business is on track to achieve the estimated transaction synergies.mill and converting system. We continued to grow value for our shareholders with our return on invested capital solidly exceedingreturns above our cost of capital for the eightha tenth consecutive year. We made substantial progress in further strengtheningOur capital allocation choices were consistent with our portfolio during 2017. We accelerated strategic investments for growth in the Industrial Packaging business, providing theframework. In 2019, we returned $1.3 billion to shareholders through dividends of about $800 million and share repurchases of about $500 million. The Company with the flexibility we need around capacity, products and geography to support our customers. In addition, the Company made an important strategic move to transfer the North American Consumer Packaging business, which included the North American Coated Paperboard and Foodservice businesses, to a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. This strategic move enables us to focus on growing value in our core businesses and establish a 20.5% ownership interest in the subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company that holds the assets of the combined business. Finally, we generated strong free cash flow which enabled us to increase our annualalso increased its dividend for the sixthtenth consecutive year.year, reinforcing our policy of a strong and sustainable dividend. We also repaid approximately $1 billion of debt during 2019 as part of our commitment to a strong balance sheet and to maintain an investment
Our 2017
grade rating. We continued to invest strategically to strengthen our Industrial Packaging business. In our North American corrugated packaging business, we made targeted investments to enhance our capabilities and reinforce our strong position in the fastest growing segments. In our EMEA Packaging business, we completed selective acquisitions to expand our converting network around the Madrid, Spain mill. Lastly, in January 2020, we monetized approximately 19% of our investment in Graphic Packaging in exchange for $250 million.

Compared to 2018, the Company’s 2019 results reflect significant pricing and mix improvement,the impact of a challenging global environment, which accelerated throughout the year. The improvementresulted in price and mix was primarily driven bybeing a headwind, mostly due to significant price realization onpressure in export pulp and containerboard markets, as well as the price increases announced in prior quartersimpact of index movements in our North American Industrial Packaging business. Volume negatively impacted 2019 results due to challenging export markets. In particular, export containerboard volume was impacted by unusually high customer inventories at the start of 2019 which took most of the year to normalize. Operations and Global Cellulose Fibers businesses.costs were impacted by significant economic downtime, particularly in the first half of 2019, due to lower export shipments and our ability to reduce inventories across our North American Industrial Packaging system due to improved supply chain operations. Input costs were favorable for the full year, primarily from lower recovered fiber and energy costs. Even though wood costs moderated in the second half of 2019, they had a negative impact on earnings in 2019. Equity earnings decreased in 2019 due to lower Ilim earnings, driven by the challenging global pulp market dynamics.

Looking ahead to the first quarter 2020, as compared to the fourth quarter of 2019, in our Industrial Packaging business, we expect lower price and mix on the flow-through of prior price index movements.Volume is expected to be seasonally lower in North America. Operations wereand costs are expected to be negatively impacted by hurricanes and the Pensacola event earliernon-repeat of a favorable inventory valuation adjustment recognized in the year; however, 2017 was a lower maintenance outage year. Input costs were higher compared to 2016, driven by significantly higher recovered fiber costs,fourth quarter, as well as higher energyunabsorbed fixed costs associated with the Riverdale mill conversion. Maintenance outage expense is expected to be higher, and transportationinput costs duringare expected to be higher seasonally. In our Global Cellulose Fibers business, we expect lower price and mix on the latter partimpact of prior price index movements. Volume is expected to improve driven by higher fluff pulp shipments. Operations and costs are expected to negatively impact earnings due to the year. Ournon-repeat of favorable items recognized in the fourth quarter. Maintenance outage expenses are expected to increase while input costs are expected to remain stable. In our Printing Papers business, flow-through of prior negative price movement is expected to be offset by improved geographic mix. Volume is expected to be down mostly due to seasonally lower volumes in Brazil. Operations and costs are

expected to have a favorable impact on earnings mostly due to the non-repeat of an unfavorable inventory valuation adjustment recognized in the fourth quarter, as well as improved fixed cost absorption in North America. Maintenance outage expenses are expected to increase while input costs should remain stable. Lastly, we expect lower equity earnings from our Ilim joint venture delivered solid operational and financial results, driven by pricing and strong volume, and provided more than $130 million in cash dividends to International Paper in 2017. Finally, our 2017 results reflecton the provisional net tax benefit associated with the impactnon-repeat of the December 2017 enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.fourth quarter foreign exchange gain.
Looking ahead to the 2018 first quarter, overall industry conditionsfull-year 2020, we expect to generate solid cash flows despite earnings headwinds, by continuing to leverage the flexibility of the company to manage costs, capital spending and working capital. Earnings are expected to remain strong, and we should continue to benefitbe negatively impacted by price carryover from announced price increases, cost reduction initiatives and additional synergies. We expect higher export price realization in our North American Industrial Packaging business and improved pricing in our Printing Papers segment,2019, as price increases
implemented in 2017well as the impact of the January 2020 containerboard index movement. Earnings are realized. We also expect 2018 first quarter sales volumes for North American Industrial Packaging and Brazil Papersexpected to be down due to seasonally lower demand. Our North American mill operations have been affectednegatively impacted by the severe cold weather experienced at the beginning of 2018 which is expected to impact operating costs. Costs will be higher in our European Packaging businessplanned maintenance outage expense and costs related to the Madrid Mill conversion. In addition, planned maintenance outagesRiverdale conversion, including unabsorbed fixed costs during the conversion process. We plan to offset anticipated inflation through deliberate improvement initiatives. The fundamentals of our packaging and fluff pulp businesses are expectedsolid - we believe we are well positioned to increase duecapture growth while continuing to a heavy outage quarter,optimize the Company’s value chain to position us with positive momentum as 70%we navigate through 2020. Lastly, we intend to continue to make choices for the use of the Company outages are planned during the first half of 2018. Input costs are expected to increase across our businesses, driven by higher wood, energy and transportation costs. Additionally, we expect equity earnings for Ilim to be sequentially higher, driven by price realization across the pulp portfolio which will be partly offset by seasonally lower volumes.
Looking to full year 2018, our focus will be on value creation in our growth businesses. We anticipate another year of strong growth, driven by a continued strong outlook in our core businesses and the full-year price flow through of the 2017 increases. We continue to see healthy demand and solid fundamentals across our portfolio. We expect higher maintenance outage expenses due to the calendar impact of mills on an eighteen-month cycle and extended outages at several of our mills, as we position them for longer maintenance cycle schedules in the future. We are planning for $1.5 billion in capital expenditures in 2018, including approximately $500 million that will be invested in strategic projects, including the Madrid Mill conversion and the Riverdale conversion. Also, we will see the positive cash tax impact associated with tax reform. Our Ilim joint venture is well positioned for another strong year of performance, and we will start to see the benefits of our investment in Graphic Packaging. All in, we expect another year ofCompany’s strong cash generation enabling usthat are consistent with our capital allocation framework in order to continue to allocate capital to growdrive long-term value for our shareholders.creation.

Adjusted Operating Earnings and Adjusted Operating Earnings Per Share are non-GAAP measures and are defined as net earnings from continuing operations (a GAAP measure) excluding special items and non-operating pension expense. DilutedNet earnings (loss) and Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders are the most directdirectly comparable GAAP measures. The Company calculates Adjusted Operating Earnings by excluding the after-tax effect of non-operating pension expense, items considered by management to be unusual (special items) and discontinued operations from the earnings reported under GAAP, non-operating pension expense (includes all U.S. pension costs, excluding service costs and prior service costs), and discontinued operations.GAAP. Adjusted Operating Earnings Per Share is calculated by dividing Adjusted Operating Earnings by diluted average shares of common stock outstanding. Management uses this measure to focus on on-going operations, and believes that it is useful to investors

17


because it enables them to perform meaningful comparisons of past and present consolidated operating results. The Company believes that using this information, along with the most direct comparable GAAP measure, provides for a more complete analysis of the results of operations.
The following are reconciliations of Diluted earningsEarnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders to Adjusted operating earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders. Additional detail is provided later in this Form 10-K regarding the special items referenced in the charts below.
 201720162015
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$2,144
$904
$938
Add back - Discontinued operations (gain) loss(34)(102)(85)
Diluted Earnings (Loss) from Continuing Operations2,110
802
853
Add back - Non-operating pension (income) expense484
610
258
Add back - Net special items expense (income)496
182
559
Income tax effect - Non-operating pension and special items expense(1,634)(309)(221)
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$1,456
$1,285
$1,449
 20192018
Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$1,225
$2,012
Less - Discontinued operations (gain) loss
(345)
Earnings (Loss) from Continuing Operations1,225
1,667
Add back - Non-operating pension expense (income)36
494
Add back - Net special items expense (income)409
214
Income tax effect - Non-operating pension and special items expense98
(171)
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders$1,768
$2,204

 20192018
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders$3.07
$4.85
Less - Discontinued operations (gain) loss per share
(0.83)
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share from Continuing Operations3.07
4.02
Add back - Non-operating pension expense (income) per share0.09
1.19
Add back - Net special items expense (income) per share1.02
0.52
Income tax effect per share - Non-operating pension and special items expense0.25
(0.41)
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders$4.43
$5.32

  Three Months Ended December 31, 2019 Three Months Ended September 30, 2019 Three Months Ended December 31, 2018
Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders $165
 $344
 $316
Less - Discontinued operations (gain) loss 
 
 
Earnings (Loss) from Continuing Operations 165
 344
 316
Add back - Non-operating pension expense (income) 9
 9
 429
Add back - Net special items expense (income) 136
 94
 (15)
Income tax effect - Non-operating pension and special items expense 120
 (16) (60)
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders $430
 $431
 $670

  Three Months Ended December 31, 2019 Three Months Ended September 30, 2019 Three Months Ended December 31, 2018
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders $0.42
 $0.87
 $0.78
Less - Discontinued operations (gain) loss per share 
 
 
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share from Continuing Operations 0.42
 0.87
 0.78
Add back - Non-operating pension expense (income) per share 0.02
 0.02
 1.05
Add back - Net special items expense (income) per share 0.34
 0.24
 (0.04)
Income tax effect per share - Non-operating pension and special items expense 0.31
 (0.04) (0.14)
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders $1.09
 $1.09
 $1.65
 201720162015
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders$5.13
$2.18
$2.23
Add back - Discontinued operations (gain) loss per share(0.08)(0.25)(0.20)
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share from Continuing Operations5.05
1.93
2.03
Add back - Non-operating pension (income) expense1.16
1.47
0.61
Add back - Net special items expense (income)1.19
0.44
1.33
Income tax effect - Non-operating pension and special items expense(3.91)(0.75)(0.52)
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders$3.49
$3.09
$3.45

  Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Three Months Ended September 30, 2017 Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders $1,460
 $395
 $218
Add back - Discontinued operations (gain) loss 8
 (29) (24)
Diluted Earnings (Loss) from Continuing Operations 1,468
 366
 194
Add back - Non-operating pension (income) expense 386
 33
 37
Add back - Net special items expense (income) 106
 23
 45
Income tax effect - Non-operating pension and special items expense (1,430) (2) 3
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders $530
 $420
 $279
  Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Three Months Ended September 30, 2017 Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders $3.50
 $0.95
 $0.53
Add back - Discontinued operations (gain) loss per share 0.02
 (0.07) (0.06)
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share from Continuing Operations 3.52
 0.88
 0.47
Add back - Non-operating pension (income) expense per share 0.92
 0.08
 0.09
Add back - Net special items expense (income) per share 0.25
 0.05
 0.11
Income tax effect per share - Non-operating pension and special items expense (3.42) 
 
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders $1.27
 $1.01
 $0.67
Cash provided by operations totaled $3.6 billion and $3.2 billion for 2019 and 2018, respectively. The Company generated Free Cash Flow of approximately $2.3 billion and $1.7 billion in 2019 and 2018, respectively. Free Cash Flow is a non-GAAP measure and the most directly comparable GAAP measure is cash provided by operations. Management believes that Free Cash Flowfree cash flow is useful to investors as a liquidity measure because it measures the amount of cash generated that is available, after reinvesting in the business, to maintain a strong balance sheet, pay dividends, repurchase stock, repayservice debt and make investments for future growth. It should not be inferred that the entire free cash flow amount is available for discretionary expenditures. By adjusting for certain items that are not indicative of the Company's ongoing underlying operational performance, we believe that free cash flow also enables

18


investors to perform meaningful comparisons between past and present periods.
The Company generated Free Cash Flow of approximately $2.0 billion, $1.9 billion and $1.8 billion in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The following are reconciliations of free cash flow to cash provided by operations:
In millions20192018
Cash provided by operations$3,610
$3,226
Adjustments:  
Cash invested in capital projects(1,276)(1,572)
Free Cash Flow$2,334
$1,654
In millions201720162015
Cash provided by operations$1,757
$2,478
$2,580
Adjustments:   
Cash invested in capital projects(1,391)(1,348)(1,487)
Cash contribution to pension plan1,250
750
750
Cash payment for Kleen Settlement
354


Free Cash Flow$1,970
$1,880
$1,843
In millionsThree Months Ended December 31, 2019Three Months Ended September 30, 2019Three Months Ended December 31, 2018
Cash provided by operations$928
$882
$821
Adjustments:   
Cash invested in capital projects(363)(285)(286)
Free Cash Flow$565
$597
$535
In millionsThree Months Ended December 31, 2017Three Months Ended September 30, 2017Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Cash provided by operations$1,188
$(709)$912
Adjustments:   
Cash invested in capital projects(456)(271)(445)
Cash contribution to pension plan
1,250

Cash payment for Kleen Settlement

354

Free Cash Flow$732
$624
$467

ResultsThe non-GAAP financial measures presented in this Form 10-K as referenced above have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for an analysis of Operationsour results calculated in accordance with GAAP. In addition, because not all companies utilize identical calculations, the Company’s presentation of non-GAAP measures in this Form 10-K may not be comparable to similarly titled measures disclosed by other companies, including companies in the same industry as the Company.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Business Segment Operating Profits are used by International Paper’s management to measure the earnings performance of its businesses. Management uses this measure to focus on on-going operations and believes that it is useful to investors because it enables them to perform meaningful comparisons of past and present operating results. International Paper believes that using this measure allowsinformation, along with net earnings, provides a better understandingmore complete analysis of trends in costs, operating efficiencies, prices and volumes.the results of operations by year. Business Segment Operating Profits are defined as earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings, but including the impact of equity earnings and noncontrolling interests, excluding interest expense, net, corporate items, net, special items, net, and corporate special items.non-operating pension expense. Business Segment Operating Profits are defined byis a measure reported to our management for purposes of making decisions about allocating resources to our business segments and assessing the Securitiesperformance of our business segments and Exchange Commission as a non-GAAPis presented in our financial measure, and are not GAAP alternatives to net income or any other operating measure prescribed by accounting principles generally acceptedstatement footnotes in the United States.accordance with ASC 280.

International Paper operates in three segments: Industrial Packaging, Global Cellulose Fibers and Printing Papers. During 2017, as a result of the transfer of the North American Coated Paperboard business and the associated reclassification of this business to Discontinued Operations, the remaining sales and operating profits previously reported in the Consumer










Packaging segment have been reclassified for segment reporting for all periods presented. The European Coated Paperboard business is now included in the Industrial Packaging segment and sales and earnings historically included in the Consumer Packaging segment associated with previously divested businesses are now included in Corporate items.

The following table presents a reconciliationcomparison of net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to International Paper Company to its total Business Segment Operating Profit:
In millions20172016201520192018
Earnings (Loss) From Continuing Operations Attributable to International Paper Company$2,110
$802
$853
Net Earnings (Loss) From Continuing Operations Attributable to International Paper Company$1,225
$1,667
Add back (deduct)  
Income tax provision (benefit)(1,085)193
417
634
445
Equity (earnings) loss, net of taxes(177)(198)(117)(250)(336)
Noncontrolling interests, net of taxes
(2)(21)(5)5
Earnings (Loss) From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings848
795
1,132
1,604
1,781
Interest expense, net572
520
555
491
536
Noncontrolling interests/equity earnings included in operations(2)1
8
3
(10)
Corporate items91
121
96
Corporate special items (income) expense76
55
422
Corporate items, net54
67
Corporate special items, net (income) expense104
9
Business special items, net (income) expense307
205
Non-operating pension expense484
610
258
36
494
$2,069
$2,102
$2,471
$2,599
$3,082
Business Segment Operating Profit   
Industrial Packaging$1,547
$1,741
$1,938
$2,076
$2,277
Global Cellulose Fibers65
(179)68
(6)262
Printing Papers457
540
465
529
543
Business Segment Operating Profit$2,069
$2,102
$2,471
$2,599
$3,082
Business Segment Operating ProfitsProfit in 2017 included a net loss from special items of $4252019 was $483 million compared with $127 millionlower than in 2016 and $137 million in 2015. Operationally, compared with 2016,2018 as the benefits from higherlower input costs ($78 million) and lower maintenance outage costs ($30 million) were more than offset by lower average sales price realizations and mix ($605161 million), higherlower sales volumes ($33 million), lower maintenance outage costs ($55118 million) and the incremental operating earnings from the pulp business acquired in late 2016 ($117 million) were offset by higher operating costs ($172 million), higher input costs ($362 million) and higher other costs ($11312 million).
Corporate items includes operating profits (losses) of previously divested businesses of $0 million in 2017, ($2) million in 2016 and ($62) million in 2015.
segmentopswaterfallyoyq419.jpg

19


The principal changes in operating profit by business segment were as follows:
 
Industrial Packaging’s profitsoperating profit of $1.5$2.1 billion were $194was $201 million lower than in 20162018 as the benefits of higher average sales price realizations and mix and higher sales volumes were partially offset by higher operating costs, higher maintenance outage costs, higherlower input costs and higher other costs. In addition, operating profits in 2017 included a charge of $354 million related to the agreement to settle the Kleen Products anti-trust class action lawsuit, charges of $14 million for the removal of abandoned property at our mills, a charge of $10 million for the accelerated amortization of an intangible asset in Brazil and a gain of $6 million for a net bargain purchase gain associated with the 2016 acquisition of Holmen Paper's newsprint mill in Madrid, Spain. In 2016, operating profits included a charge of $70 million for impairment and other costs associated with the sale of our corrugated packaging business in Asia and a charge of $7 million related to the closure of a mill in Turkey.
Global Cellulose Fibers' operating profit of $65 million was $244 million favorable versus 2016 as the benefits of higher average sales price realizations and mix, lower operating costs, lower maintenance outage costs and lower input costs were partially offset by higher other costs. Operating profits in 2017 included $33 million of costs associated with the acquisition and integration of the pulp business acquired in late 2016 from Weyerhaeuser, a charge of $14 million for the amortization of the remaining inventory fair value adjustment associated with that acquisition and a charge of $4 million for the removal of abandoned property at our mills. Results for 2017 also reflect the transaction synergies associated with the Weyerhaeuser acquisition. In 2016, the operating loss included $31 million of costs associated with the acquisition of the pulp business and $19 million
for the amortization of the inventory fair value adjustment associated with that acquisition.

Printing Papers’ profits of $457 million represented a $83 million decrease in operating profits from 2016. The benefits from higher sales volumes, lower maintenance outage costs and lower other costs were more than offset by lower average sales price, realizationsunfavorable mix, lower sales volumes and mix, higher operating costs.
Global Cellulose Fibers' operating loss of $(6) million was $268 million lower than in 2018 as the benefits of higher sales volumes, lower maintenance outage costs and lower input costs were more than offset by lower average sales price, an unfavorable mix and higher operating costs.

Printing Papers’ operating profit of $529 million represented a $14 million decrease in operating profit from 2018. The benefits from higher average sales price, net of mix, were offset by lower sales volumes, higher input costs, higher maintenance outage costs and higher inputoperating costs. Operating profits in 2017 included charges of $2 million for the removal of abandoned property at our mills.


Liquidity and Capital ResourcesLIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
For the year ended December 31, 2017,2019, International Paper generated $1.8$3.6 billion of cash flow from operations compared with $2.5$3.2 billion in 2016 and $2.6 billion in 2015. Cash flow from operations included $1.25 billion, $750 million and $750 million of cash pension contributions in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.2018. Capital spending for 20172019 totaled $1.4$1.3 billion, or 98% of depreciation and amortization expense. Our liquidity position remains strong, supported by approximately $2.1 billion of credit facilities that we believe are adequate to meet future liquidity requirements. Maintaining an investment-grade credit rating for our long-term debt continues to be an important element in our overall financial strategy.facilities.
We expect stronganother year of solid cash generation again in 2018, including2020. Furthermore, we intend to continue to make choices for the benefits of U.S. tax reform,use cash that are consistent with our capital allocation framework to drive long-term value creation. These include maintaining a strong balance sheet and will continue our balanced use ofinvestment grade credit rating, returning meaningful cash to shareholders through the payment of dividends reducing total debtand share repurchases and making organic investments for future growth.
to maintain our world-class system and strengthen our packaging business. Capital spending for 20182020 is targetedplanned at $1.5approximately $1.0 billion, or about 111%74% of depreciation and amortization.amortization, including approximately $250 million of strategic investments.
Legal

dividends and expect to continue to pay regular quarterly cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Each quarterly dividend is subject to review and approval by our Board of Item 8. Financial StatementsDirectors, and Supplementary Data for a discussion of legal matters.is subject to restrictions in our debt documents.

While the operating results for International Paper’s various business segments are driven by a number of business-specific factors, changes in International Paper’s operating results are closely tied to changes in general economic conditions in North America, Europe, Russia, Latin America, India, North Africa and the Middle East. (and were closely tied to general economic conditions in India prior to the sale of our controlling interest in International Paper APPM Limited, an India-based printing paper business, effective October 30, 2019).
Factors that impact the demand for our products include industrial non-durable goods production, consumer preferences, consumer spending, commercial printing and advertising activity, white-collar employment levels, and movements in currency exchange rates.
Product prices are affected by general economic trends, inventory levels, currency exchange rate movements and

20


worldwide capacity utilization. In addition to these revenue-related factors, net earnings are impacted by various cost drivers, the more significant of which include changes in raw material costs, principally wood, recycled fiber and chemical costs; energy costs; freight costs; mill outage costs; salary and benefits costs, including pensions; and manufacturing conversion costs.
The following is a discussion of International Paper’s consolidated results of operations for the year ended December 31, 20172019, and the major factors affecting these results compared to 2016 and 20152018.
For the year ended December 31, 2017,2019, International Paper reported net sales of $21.7$22.4 billion, compared with $19.5$23.3 billion in 2016 and $20.7 billion in 2015.2018. International net sales (including(based on the location of the seller and including U.S. exports) totaled $8.4$8.1 billion or 39%36% of total sales in 2017.2019. This compares with international net sales of $6.9$8.8 billion in 2016 and $7.6 billion in 2015.2018.
Full year 20172019 net earnings attributable to International Paper Company totaled $2.1$1.2 billion ($5.133.07 per diluted share), compared with net earnings of $904 million$2.0 billion ($2.184.85 per diluted share) in 2016 and $938 million ($2.23 per diluted share) in 2015.2018. Amounts in all periods2018 include the results of discontinued operations.
Earnings from continuing operations attributable to International Paper Company after taxes in 2017, 20162019 and 20152018 were as follows:
In millions2017 2016 2015 2019 2018 
Earnings from continuing operations attributable to International Paper Company$2,110
(a)$802
(b)$853
(c)$1,225
(a)$1,667
(b)


(a) Includes $952 million of net special items income which included a provisional net tax benefit of $1.2 billion related to the enactment of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act and $298 million of non-operating pension expense which included a pre-tax charge of $376 million ($232 million after taxes) for a settlement accounting charge associated with an annuity purchase and transfer of pension obligations for approximately 45,000 retirees.
(b) Includes $108 million of net special items charges and $375 million of non-operating pension expense which included a pre-tax charge of $439 million ($270 million after taxes) for a settlement accounting charge associated with payments under a term-vested lump sum buyout.
(c) Includes $439 million of net special items charges and $157 million of non-operating pension expense.
(a)Includes $515 million of net special items charges which included tax expense of $203 million related to a foreign deferred tax valuation allowance and $28 million of non-operating pension expense.
(b)Includes $166 million of net special items charges and $371 million of non-operating pension expense which included a pre-tax charge of $424 million ($318 million after taxes) for a settlement accounting charge associated with an annuity purchase and transfer of pension obligations for approximately 23,000 retirees.
Compared with 2016,2018, the benefits from higher sales volumes, higher average sales price realizations and mix,lower input costs ($59 million), lower maintenance outage costs incremental earnings from the acquisition of Weyerhaeuser's pulp business,($23 million), lower corporate and other costs ($8 million) and lower taxnet interest expense ($32 million) were partiallymore than offset by lower average sales price and an unfavorable mix ($122 million), lower sales volumes ($89 million), higher operating costs higher input costs($235 million) and higher net interest expense.tax expense ($26 million). In addition, 20172019 results
included lower equity earnings, net of taxes, relating to the Company’s investmentinvestments in Ilim Holding, SA.and GPIP.
continuingopswaterfallyoyq41.jpg
See Business Segment Results on pages 2426 through 2729 for a discussion of the impact of these factors by segment.
Discontinued OperationsDISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
2017:

On January 1,2018: In 2018, the Company completed the transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business, which includes its North American Coated Paperboard and Foodservice businesses, to a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. International Paper received a 20.5% ownership interest in a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company that holds the assets of the combined business. As a result of this transfer, all current and prior year amounts have been adjusted to reflect the North American Consumer Packaging business as a discontinued operation. See Note 7 on pages 53 through 55 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further discussion.

Included in discontinued operations were the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business, an after-tax charge of $10 million for costs associated with the transfer and an after-tax charge of $28 million for non-operating pension expenses related to curtailment charges and termination benefits in connection with this same transaction.
2016:

In 2016, discontinued operations included an after-tax gain of $364 million on the operating earningstransfer of the North American Consumer Packaging business and an after-tax chargecharges of $5$19 million expensefor costs associated with a legal settlement related to the xpedx business.transfer. See Note 8 Divestitures and Impairments on pages 56 through 58 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further discussion.
2015:
In 2015, discontinued operations included the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business.




21


Income TaxesINCOME TAXES
A net income tax benefitprovision of $1.1 billion$634 million was recorded for 2017,2019, including tax expense of $203 million related to a provisionalforeign deferred tax valuation allowance, a tax benefit of $53 million related to internal investment restructuring, tax expense of $9 million related to a non U.S. tax rate change, tax expense of $3 million related to foreign tax audits and a tax benefit of $3 million related to state income tax legislative changes. Excluding these items, a $53 million net tax benefit for other special items and a $8 million tax benefit related to non-operating pension expense, the operational tax provision was $536 million, or 26% of $1.2 billionpre-tax earnings before equity earnings.
A net income tax provision of $445 million was recorded for 2018, including a tax benefit of $36 million to revise our 2017 estimated tax related to the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, tax benefitsexpense of $113$25 million related to incomeforeign tax refund claims, aaudits, tax expense of $19 million related to an international investment restructuring and tax expense of $9 million related to an internationalstate income tax law change, tax expenses of $34 million related to international investment restructuring and a tax expense of $38 million associated with a cash pension contribution.legislative changes. Excluding these items, a $194$65 million net tax benefit for other special items and a $186$123 million tax benefit related to non-operating pension expense, the operational tax provision was $549$616 million, or 30%25% of pre-tax earnings before equity earnings.
A net income tax provision of $193 million was recorded for 2016 including tax benefits of $63 million related to legal entity restructurings, a tax expense of $31 million associated with a tax rate change in Luxembourg, a tax expense of $23 million associated with a $750 million cash pension contribution, and a tax benefit of $14 million related to the closure of a federal tax audit. Excluding these items, a $51 million tax benefit for other special items and a $235 million tax benefit related to non-operating pension expense, the tax provision was $502 million, or 32% of pre-tax earnings before equity earnings.EQUITY EARNINGS, NET OF TAXES
A net income tax provision of $417 million was recorded for 2015 including a tax benefit of $62 million related to internal restructurings, a tax expense of $23 million for the tax impact of a cash pension contribution of $750 million and a $2 million tax expense for other items. Excluding these items, an $83 million net tax benefit for other special items and a $101 million tax benefit related to non-operating pension expense, the tax provision was $638 million, or 33% of pre-tax earnings before equity earnings.
Equity Earnings, Net of Taxes
Equity earnings, net of taxes, in 2017, 2016 and 2015 consisted principally of the Company’s share of earnings from its 50% investment in Ilim Holding S.A.of $207 millionand $290 million in Russia2019 and 2018, respectively, and from its then 21.6% ownership interest in GPIP of $46 million in 2019, and from its then 20.5%ownership interest of $46 million in 2018 (see page 27)29).
Interest Expense and Noncontrolling InterestINTEREST EXPENSE AND NONCONTROLLING INTEREST
Net corporate interest expense totaled $572$491 million in 2017, $5202019 and $536 million in 2016 and $555 million in 2015.2018. Net interest expense in 20172019 includes $5$3 million of interest income associated with incomea foreign value-added tax refund claims. The increase in 2017 compared with 2016 is dueaccrual and $1 million of interest expense related to higher average outstanding debt.foreign tax audits. The decrease in 20162019 compared with 2015 reflects2018 was due to lower average interest rates.outstanding debt.
There were no net
Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests in 2017, compared withwere a loss of $2$5 million in 2016 and a2019, compared with earnings of $5 million in 2018. The decrease in 2019 was primarily due to the allocation of loss of $21$9 million in 2015. The decrease from 2015 reflectsassociated with the saleimpairment of the net assets of our equity share of the IP-Sun JV in 2015.
India Papers business.

Special ItemsSPECIAL ITEMS
Restructuring and Other Charges, Net
International Paper continually evaluates its operations for improvement opportunities targeted to (a) focus our portfolio on our core businesses, (b) realign capacity to operate fewer facilities with the same revenue capability, and(c) close high cost facilities, and (c)(d) reduce costs. Annually, strategic operating plans are developed by each of our businesses. If it subsequently becomes apparent that a facility’s plan will not be achieved, a decision is then made to, among other outcomes, (a) invest additional capital to upgrade the facility, (b) shut down the facility and record the corresponding charge, or (c) evaluate the expected recovery of the carrying value of the facility to determine if an impairment of the assets have occurred. In recent years, this policy has led to the shutdown of a number of facilities and the recording of significant asset impairment charges and severance costs. It is possible that additional charges and costs will be incurred in future periods in our core businesses should such triggering events occur.
During 2017, 20162019 and 2015,2018, pre-tax restructuring and other charges, net, totaling $67 million, $54$57 million and $252$29 million were recorded. Details of these charges arewere as follows:
Restructuring and Other      
In millions2017 2016 2015 
Business Segments      
Turkey mill closure$
 $7
(a)$
 
 
 7
 
 
Corporate      
Early debt extinguishment costs (see Note 13)$83
 $29
 $207
 
Gain on sale of investment in ArborGen(14) 
 
 
India Packaging business evaluation write-off
 17
 
 
Gain on sale of investment in Arizona Chemical
 (8) 
 
Riegelwood mill conversion costs net of proceeds from the sale of Carolina Coated Bristols brand
 9
 8
 
Timber monetization restructuring
 
 16
 
Legal liability reserve adjustment
 
 15
 
Other Items(2) 
 6
 
 67
 47
 252
 
Total$67
 $54
 $252
 
Restructuring and Other, Net    
In millions2019 2018 
Business Segments    
EMEA Packaging optimization$15
(a)$47
(a)
Overhead reduction initiative10
(b)
 
Riverdale mill paper machine conversion severance reserve
 3
(c)
 25
 50
 
Corporate    
Early debt extinguishment costs (see Note 15)$21
 $10
 
Overhead reduction initiative11
 
 
Gain on sale of investment in Liaison Technologies
 (31) 
 32
 (21) 
Total$57
 $29
 


(a) Recorded in the Industrial Packaging business segment.

(b) Includes $6 million recorded in the Printing Papers business segment and $4 million recorded in the Global Cellulose Fibers business segment.

(c) Recorded in the Printing Papers business segment.





22



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Other Corporate Special Items

In addition, other corporatepre-tax special items totaling $0 million, $8$158 million and $(4)$63 million were recorded in 2017, 20162019 and 2015,2018, respectively. Details of these charges were as follows:
Other Corporate Items 
Other Special Items    
In millions2017201620152019 2018 
Write-off of certain regulatory pre-engineering costs$
$8
$
Business Segments    
Antitrust fines$32
(a)$
 
Abandoned property removal50
(b)32
(b)
Multi-employer pension plan exit liability9
(a)
 
Riverdale mill conversion accelerated depreciation5
(c)6
(c)
Gain on sale of previously closed Albany, Oregon mill site(9)(a)
 
Litigation settlement recovery
 (5)(a)
Other

(4)(1)(d)
 
86
 33
 
Corporate    
Litigation reserves$41
 $
 
Environmental remediation reserve adjustments25
 9
 
Fair value adjustment on remaining investment in India3
 
 
India transaction costs3
 
 
Smurfit-Kappa acquisition proposal costs
 12
 
Legal settlement
 9
 
72
 30
 
Total$
$8
$(4)$158
 $63
 
Impairments of Goodwill

(a) Recorded in the Industrial Packaging business segment.
No goodwill impairment charges were(b) Includes $35 million and $20 million recorded in 2017 or 2016.

In the fourth quarter of 2015, in conjunction with the annual testing of its reporting units for possible goodwill impairments, the Company calculated the estimated fair value of its BrazilIndustrial Packaging business segment for 2019 and determined that all of the goodwill2018, respectively; $12 million and $11 million recorded in the Global Cellulose Fibers business totaling $137segment for 2019 and 2018, respectively; $3 million should be written off. The declineand $1 million recorded in the fair valuePrinting Papers business segment for 2019 and 2018, respectively.
(c) Recorded in the Printing Papers business segment.
(d) Includes expense of $2 million recorded in the BrazilIndustrial Packaging business segment and resulting impairment charge was due toincome of $3 million recorded in the negative impacts on the cash flows of thePrinting Papers business caused by the continued decline of the overall Brazilian economy.segment.
Net Losses on Sales and Impairments of Businesses
Net losses on sales and impairments of businesses included in special items totaled a pre-tax loss of $9$205 million and $122 million in 2017, a pre-tax loss2019 and 2018, respectively. Details of $70 million in 2016these losses were as follows:
Net Loss on Sales and Impairments of Businesses  
In millions20192018
India Papers impairment$159
$
Global Cellulose Fibers goodwill impairment52

Gain on sale of EMEA Packaging box plant(6)
Brazil Packaging impairment of fixed assets and an intangible asset
122
Total$205
$122
See Note 8 Divestitures and a pre-tax loss of $174 million in 2015. See Note 7 DivestituresImpairments on pages 5356 through 5558 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data) for further discussion.


DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS SEGMENTS


International Paper’s business segments discussed below are consistent with the internal structure used to manage these businesses. All segments are differentiated on a common product, common customer basis consistent with the business segmentation generally used in the forest products industry.


Industrial PackagingINDUSTRIAL PACKAGING


International Paper is the largest manufacturer of containerboard in the United States. Our U.S. production capacity is over 13 million tons annually. Our products include linerboard, medium, whitetop, recycled linerboard, recycled medium and saturating kraft. About 80% of our production is converted domestically into corrugated boxes and other packaging by our 178175 North American container plants. Additionally, we recycle approximately
one million tons of OCC and mixed and
white paper through our 18 recycling plants. In EMEA, our operations include one recycled fiber containerboard mill in Morocco and 27 container plants in France, Italy, Spain, Morocco and Turkey. During 2016, we acquired a newsprint mill in Spain which we are in the process of converting to a recycled containerboard mill. In Brazil our operations include three containerboard mills and four box plants. Our container plants are
supported by regional design centers, which offer total packaging solutions and supply chain initiatives. In EMEA, our operations include one recycled fiber containerboard mill in Morocco, a recycled containerboard mill in Spain and 28 container plants in France, Italy, Spain, Morocco, Turkey and Portugal. In Brazil, our operations include three containerboard mills and four box plants.


International Paper also produces high quality coated paperboard for a variety of packaging end uses with 431,000443,000 tons of annual capacity at our mills in Poland and Russia.


Global Cellulose FibersGLOBAL CELLULOSE FIBERS


Our cellulose fibers product portfolio includes fluff, market and specialty pulps. OurInternational Paper is the largest producer of fluff pulp which is used to make absorbent hygiene products like baby diapers, feminine care, adult incontinence and other non-woven products, and ourproducts. Our market pulp is used for tissue and paper products. We continue to invest in exploring new innovative uses for our products, such as our specialty pulps, which are used for non-absorbent end uses including textiles, filtration, construction material, paints and coatings, reinforced plastics and more. Our products are made in the United States, Canada, France, Poland, and Russia and are sold around the world. International Paper facilities have annual dried pulp capacity of about 4 million metric tonnes.tons.






Printing Papers
PRINTING PAPERS


International Paper is one of the world’s largest producers of printing and writing papers. The primary product in this segment is uncoated papers. This business produces papers for use in copiers, desktop and laser printers and digital imaging. End useEnd-use applications include advertising and promotional materials such as brochures, pamphlets, greeting cards, books, annual reports and direct mail. Uncoated papers also produces a variety of grades that are converted by our customers into envelopes, tablets, business forms and file folders. Uncoated papers are sold under private label and International Paper brand names that include Hammermill, Springhill, Williamsburg, Postmark, Accent, Great White, Chamex, Ballet, Rey, Pol, and Svetocopy. The mills producing uncoated papers are located in the United States, France, Poland, Russia Brazil and India.Brazil. The mills have uncoated paper production capacity of over 4 million tons annually. Brazilian operations function through International Paper do Brasil, Ltda, which owns or manages approximately 329,000 acres of forestlands in Brazil.



ILIM

23

Table of Contents

Ilim Holding S.A.


In October 2007, International Paper and Ilim Holding S.A. (Ilim) completed a 50:50 joint venture to operate a pulp and paper business located in Russia. Ilim’s facilities include three paper mills located in Bratsk, Ust-Ilimsk, and Koryazhma, Russia, with combined total pulp and paper capacity of over 3.43.5 million metric tons. Ilim has exclusive harvesting rights on timberland and forest areas exceeding 16.419.5 million acres (6.6(7.88 million hectares).


GPIP

On January 1, 2018, the Company completed the transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business, which includes its North American Coated Paperboard and Foodservice businesses, to Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC (GPIP), a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company, in exchange for a 20.5% ownership interest in GPIP. GPIP subsequently transferred the North American Consumer Packaging business to Graphic Packaging International, LLC (GPI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of GPIP that holds the assets of the combined business.

On January 29, 2020, the Company exchanged approximately 19.0% of the aggregate units owned by the Company for an aggregated price of $250 million. After this transaction, the Company's ownership percentage in GPIP is approximately 18.3%. The Company expects to record a gain on the exchange in the first quarter of 2020.

Products and brand designations appearing in italics are trademarks of International Paper or a related company.

BUSINESS SEGMENT RESULTS
The following tables present net sales and operating profit (loss) which is the Company's measure of segment profitability. The tables include a detail of special items in each year, where applicable, in order to show operating profit before special items.
Industrial PackagingINDUSTRIAL PACKAGING
Demand for Industrial Packaging products is closely correlated with non-durable industrial goods production, as well as with demand for processed foods, poultry, meat and agricultural products. In addition to prices and volumes, major factors affecting the profitability of Industrial Packaging are raw material and energy costs, freight costs, mill outage costs, manufacturing efficiency and product mix.
Industrial Packaging   
In millions201720162015
Net Sales$15,077
$14,226
$14,559
Operating Profit (Loss)$1,547
$1,741
$1,938
Asia Packaging restructuring and impairment
70

Holmen mill bargain purchase gain(6)

Kleen Products anti-trust settlement354


Brazil Packaging Wood Supply Accelerated Amortization10


Turkey mill closure
7

Brazil Packaging goodwill and trade name impairment

137
Other14


Operating Profit Before Special Items$1,919
$1,818
$2,075
Industrial Packaging  
In millions20192018
Net Sales$15,326
$15,900
Operating Profit (Loss)$2,076
$2,277






Industrial Packagingnet sales for 2017 increased 6%2019 decreased 4% to $15.1$15.3 billion compared with $14.2$15.9 billion in 2016, and 4% compared with $14.6 billion in 2015.2018. Operating profits in 20172019 were 11%9% lower than in 2016 and 20% lower than in 2015.2018. Comparing 20172019 with 2016,2018, benefits from higherlower input costs ($124 million) and lower maintenance outage costs ($22 million) were more than offset by lower average sales price realizations and an unfavorable mix ($59361 million) and higher, lower sales volumes ($75107 million) were offset byand higher operating costs ($245179 million), higher maintenance outage costs ($1 million), higher input costs ($304 million) and higher other costs ($17 million).
North American Industrial PackagingNorth American Industrial Packaging 
In millions20172016201520192018
Net Sales (a)$13,329
$12,450
$12,618
$13,509
$14,187
Operating Profit (Loss)$1,504
$1,757
$2,009
$2,043
$2,307
Kleen Products anti-trust settlement354


Other14


Operating Profit Before Special Items$1,872
$1,757
$2,009


(a) Includes intra-segment sales of $172$118 million for 20172019 and $143$233 million for 2016.2018.
North American Industrial Packaging'ssales volumes increaseddecreased in 20172019 compared with 20162018 for export containerboard, primarily due to customer destocking as customers exited 2018 with high inventory levels which persisted through the first half of 2019. Box shipments were also lower, reflecting higher box shipmentsweaker demand and higher shipmentsthe impact of containerboard to export markets.customer gains and losses. In 2017,2019, the business took about 416,0001.4 million tons of total downtime of which about 35,000 weremaintenance and economic downtime and 381,000 were maintenance downtime. The business took about 914,000compared with 0.5 million tons of total downtime in 2016 of which 445,000 were economic downtime and 469,000 were maintenance downtime.2018. Average sales prices for boxes and average sales price realizations for containerboard in export markets were significantly higher.lower primarily due to lower export containerboard prices, which were partially offset by higher sales prices for boxes. Input costs were significantly higher,substantially lower, primarily for recycled fiber, but also for energy, chemicals and freight, while wood costs were lower.fiber. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $5$23 million higherlower in 20172019 than in 2016.2018. Operating costs increased due to inflation, but were mostly offset by strong mill manufacturing operations. Earnings benefited from a favorable inventory valuation adjustment in 2019, compared with an unfavorable inventory valuation adjustment in 2018.

Looking ahead to the first quarter of 2018,2020, compared with the fourth quarter of 2017,2019, sales volumes for boxes are expected to be seasonally lower despite two more shipping days.lower. Shipments of containerboard to export markets are also expected to decrease.be lower. Average sales margins for boxes are expected to be lower, reflecting the recent price realizations should reflect the continuing realization of containerboard export price increases.index movements. Input costs, primarily for wood and energy, are expected to be relatively flat. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to be about $90 million higher for wood, energy and chemicals. Plannedas we move into a high maintenance downtime spending is expected to be about $53 million higher.outage quarter. Operating costs are expectedanticipated to be negatively impacted byhigher, reflecting the severe winter weather conditions inimpact of unabsorbed fixed costs related to the 2018 first quarter.Riverdale conversion.

EMEA Industrial Packaging  
In millions20192018
Net Sales$1,335
$1,355
Operating Profit (Loss)$(17)$(73)
24


EMEA Industrial Packaging   
In millions201720162015
Net Sales$1,334
$1,227
$1,114
Operating Profit (Loss)$6
$15
$13
Holmen mill net bargain purchase gain(6)

Turkey Mill Closure
7

Operating Profit Before Special Items$
$22
$13
EMEA Industrial Packaging's sales volumes in 20172019 were higherlower than in 20162018, reflecting improved market demand, particularlyweaker economic conditions in MoroccoTurkey and Turkey while sales volumesa slower fruit and vegetable season in the Eurozone were negatively impacted by poor weather conditions.Morocco. Average sales margins improved due to sales price increases and a more favorable mix that more than offset highersignificantly in all regions driven by lower containerboard costs and the impact of unfavorable currency translation. Input costsstable sales prices for energy were higher and operatingboxes. Other input costs were flat. Planned maintenance downtime costs were also flat. Operating costs were lower due to the ramp-up of the Madrid, Spain mill and the benefits of our optimization initiatives, partially offset by inflation in Turkey. Earnings also benefited from the box plant acquisitions completed in the first half of 2019. Earnings were negatively impactedaffected by inflation.unfavorable foreign currency impacts, primarily in Turkey.
Entering the first quarter of 2018,2020, compared with the fourth quarter of 20172019, sales volumes are expected to be slightly lower.seasonally higher. Average sales margins are expected to be slightly higher reflecting lower due to continuing higher containerboard prices. Operating costs will be higher due to the the conversion of the Madrid mill.
Brazilian Industrial Packaging   
In millions201720162015
Net Sales$251
$232
$228
Operating Profit (Loss)$(35)$(43)$(163)
Brazil Packaging goodwill and trade name impairment10

137
Operating Profit Before Special Items$(25)$(43)$(26)
Brazilian Industrial Packaging's sales volumes in 2017 increasedcompared with 2016 for boxes and containerboard, reflecting improving economic conditions. Average sales price realizations were also higher. Input costs decreased, primarily for recycled fiber and wood. Operating costs were higher largely due to the effects of inflation. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $1 million lower in 2017 compared with 2016.
Looking ahead to the first quarter of 2018, compared with the fourth quarter of 2017, sales volumes are expected to be higher for boxes, but lower for containerboard and sheets. Average sales margins should improve, reflecting a sales price increase for boxes. Input costs are expected to be flat, but operating costs will be higher due to other costs. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to be $1about $3 million higher. Input costs should be stable. Operating costs are expected to be higher, driven by inflation.
European Coated Paperboard   
In millions201720162015
Net Sales$335
$327
$319
Operating Profit (Loss)$72
$93
$87
Brazilian Industrial Packaging  
In millions20192018
Net Sales$235
$232
Operating Profit (Loss)$(14)$(29)
European Coated Paperboard's Brazilian Industrial Packaging'ssales volumes increased in 20172019 compared with 2016 increased in Europe, but decreased in Russia.2018 for boxes and containerboard. Average sales price realizations were lower in Russia while in Europe average sales margins increasedimproved reflecting higher average sales prices and a more favorable mix. Input costs increased, primarily for utilities, recycled fiber, wood energy and purchased pulpchemicals. Operating costs were higher.lower. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $3$1 million higher in 2019, compared with 2018.
Looking ahead to the first quarter of 2020, compared with the fourth quarter of 2019, sales volumes are expected to be lower for both boxes and containerboard. Average sales margins are expected to be stable. Input costs are expected to be flat. Operating costs are expected to be stable.
European Coated Paperboard  
In millions20192018
Net Sales$365
$359
Operating Profit (Loss)$64
$72
European Coated Paperboard'ssales volumes in 2017.2019 compared with 2018 increased in both Europe and Russia. Average sales margins were higher reflecting higher average sales prices net of an unfavorable mix in Europe and higher average sales prices and a favorable mix in Russia. Input costs were stable as lower purchased pulp and energy costs in Europe were offset by higher energy costs in Russia and higher wood and chemicals costs in Europe. Planned maintenance downtime costs were flat. Operating costs were higher. Earnings were negatively affected by unfavorable foreign currency impacts in both Europe and Russia.
Looking forward to the first quarter of 2018,2020, compared with the fourth quarter of 2017,2019, sales volumes are expected to increasebe stable as higher volumes in Europe but expected to be seasonallyare offset by lower volumes in Russia. Average sales price realizationsmargins are expected to be higher in both Europe and Russia.regions. Input costs are expected to be lower. Planned maintenanceflat in Europe and higher in Russia, primarily for wood and chemicals. Maintenance outage costs are expected to be $5 million higherflat due to no outages in the fourth quarter and no planned outages in the first quarter of 2018 duequarter. Operating costs are expected to a planned outage at the Kwidzyn mill.be lower.
Asian Industrial Packaging   
In millions201720162015
Net Sales$
$133
$280
Operating Profit (Loss)$
$(81)$(8)
Asia Packaging restructuring and impairment
70

Operating Profit Before Special Items$
$(11)$(8)
On June 30, 2016, the Company completed the sale of its corrugated packaging business in China and Southeast Asia to Xiamen Bridge Hexing Equity Investment Partnership Enterprise. See Note 7 Divestitures on pages 53 through 55 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further discussion of the sale of this business.
Global Cellulose FibersGLOBAL CELLULOSE FIBERS
Demand for Cellulose Fibers products is closely correlated with changes in demand for absorbent hygiene products, primarily driven by the demographics and income growth in various geographic regions. It is further affected by changes in currency rates that can benefit or hurt producers in different geographic regions. Principal cost drivers include manufacturing efficiency, raw material and energy costs, mill outage costs, and freight costs.
Global Cellulose Fibers  
In millions20172016201520192018
Net Sales$2,551
$1,092
$975
$2,551
$2,819
Operating Profit (Loss)$65
$(179)$68
$(6)$262
Acquisition costs33
31

Inventory fair value step-up amortization14
19

Other4


Operating Profit Before Special Items$116
$(129)$68
Global Cellulose Fibers results include the net sales and operating profit associated with the pulp business acquired from Weyerhaeuser from the date of acquisition

25


on December 1, 2016. See Note 6 Acquisitions and Joint Ventures on pages 51 through 53 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Datafor additional information about the acquisition.
Net sales for 2017 increased 2019 decreased10%to $2.6 billion, compared with $1.1$2.8 billion in 2016 and $975 million in 2015.2018. Operating profits in 20172019 were significantly higherlower than in 2016 and 4% lower than in2015.2018. Comparing 20172019 with 2016 for the legacy business,2018, benefits from higher average sales price realizations and mixvolumes ($61 million), lower planned maintenance downtime costs ($393 million), lower input costs ($58 million), and lower maintenance outage costs ($16 million) were

more than offset by lower average sales price and mix ($216 million) and higher operating costs ($179 million) and.
Sales volumes in 2019 compared with 2018 were lower other costs ($6 million)as higher market pulp volumes were more than offset by lower sales volumes ($5 million). The incremental operating profits fromfluff pulp volumes. In 2019, the acquired business were $117 milliontook about 300,000 tons of total maintenance and economic downtime compared with about 180,000 tons of total downtime in 2017.
For the legacy business, sales volumes were lower.2018. Average sales margins increased,were significantly lower, reflecting higherlower average pulp prices driven by very challenging supply and demand conditions outside the U.S. Average sales price realizations for bothmargins were also negatively affected by an unfavorable product mix reflecting a decrease in sales of fluff pulp and softwood market pulp and a favorable product mix.pulp. Input costs were slightly lower.flat. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $39$16 million lower in 20172019. Operating costs increased primarily due to the non-recurrence of the 2016 costs associated with the conversion of the Riegelwoodinflation and an unfavorable mill to 100% fluff pulp production. Operating costs were flat, while input costs were lower.manufacturing mix. In Europe and Russia, average sales margins increasedvolumes increased. Average sales prices decreased significantly in both regions. Input costs were higher for wood, chemicals and plannedpurchased pulp in Europe and chemicals and energy in Russia. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $3 million lower than in 2016.flat.
Entering the first quarter of 2018,2020, compared with the fourth quarter of 2019, sales volumes will be lower due to capacity constraints resulting from planned maintenance downtime. Average sales price realizations are expected to be stable and product mix shouldslightly higher, primarily for fluff pulp. Average sales margins are expected to be favorable. Operatinglower, reflecting the impact of prior price index movement. Input costs are expected to be higher, partly due to the severe winter weather experienced in January. Inputstable. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to increase for energy, wood and chemicals. Planned maintenance downtime costs should be $52$27 million higher than in the fourth quarter of 2017.2019. Operating costs are expected to increase due to seasonality and higher distribution costs. In addition, a fourth-quarter favorable inventory valuation adjustment will not repeat.Europe, sales volumes are expected to be slightly higher and stable in Russia. Average sales margins are expected to be be higher in both regions. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to be about $7 million lower in the first quarter of 2020 in Europe and Rusia.
Printing PapersPRINTING PAPERS
Demand for Printing Papers products is closely correlated with changes in commercial printing and advertising activity, direct mail volumes and, for uncoated cut-size products, with changes in white-collar employment levels that affect the usage of copy and laser printer paper. Principal cost drivers include manufacturing efficiency, raw material and energy costs, mill outage costs and freight costs.
Printing Papers  
In millions20192018
Net Sales$4,291
$4,375
Operating Profit (Loss)$529
$543
Printing Papersnet sales for 2019 of $4.3 billion decreased 2%, compared with $4.4 billion in 2018. Operating profits in 2019 were 3% lower than in 2018. Comparing 2019 with 2018, benefits from higher average
 
Printing Papers   
In millions201720162015
Net Sales$4,157
$4,058
$4,056
Operating Profit (Loss)$457
$540
$465
Other2


Operating Profit Before Special Items$459
$540
$465
Printing Paperssales price realizations, net sales for 2017 of $4.2 billion increased 2% compared with $4.1 billion in both 2016 and 2015. Operating profits in 2017mix ($116 million), were 15%more than offset by lower than in 2016 and 2%lowerthan in 2015. Comparing 2017 with 2016, benefits from higher sales volumes ($2514 million), lowerhigher operating costs ($54 million), higher input costs ($54 million) and higher planned maintenance downtime costs ($158 million).
North American Printing Papers  
In millions20192018
Net Sales$1,956
$1,956
Operating Profit (Loss)$211
$170
North American Printing Papers'sales volumes for 2019 were lower than in 2018, primarily for commercial printing paper. In 2019, the business took about 125,000 tons of total maintenance and economic downtime compared with about 48,000 tons of total downtime in 2018. Average sales margins improved due to the realization of sales price increases for both cutsize paper and rolls, net of an unfavorable geographic mix. Input costs were higher, primarily for wood. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $4 million higher in 2019. Operating costs were higher primarily due to inflation and an unfavorable manufacturing mix, mostly offset by lower otherdistribution costs ($12 million)and favorable mill operations. Earnings were negatively impacted by an unfavorable inventory valuation adjustment in 2019.
Entering the first quarter of 2020, compared with the fourth quarter of 2019, sales volumes are expected to be lower, primarily for export markets. Average sales margins are expected to be stable. Input costs are expected to be stable. Operating costs are expected to be higher due to seasonality and inflation. Earnings are expected to benefit from the non-repeat of an unfavorable inventory valuation adjustment in the fourth quarter of 2019. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to increase by about $29 million in the first quarter of 2020.
Brazilian Papers  
In millions20192018
Net Sales (a)$967
$978
Operating Profit (Loss)$155
$227

(a) Includes intra-segment sales of $42 million for 2019 and $13 million for 2018.
Brazilian Papers' sales volumes for uncoated freesheet paper in 2019, were higher compared with 2018 for export markets but lower for domestic markets. Average sales margins were lower as higher average domestic sales prices were more than offset by lower average export sales price realizationsprices and mix ($61 million), higher operating costs ($31 million) and higher input costs ($41 million).
North American Printing Papers   
In millions201720162015
Net Sales$1,833
$1,890
$1,942
Operating Profit (Loss)$132
$236
$179
Other2


Operating Profit Before Special Items$134
$236
$179
North American Printing Papers' sales volumes for 2017 were higher than in 2016. Average sales price realizations decreased for both cutsize paper and rolls. Average sales margins were also impacted by an unfavorable geographic mix. Input costs increased, primarily for virgin fiber, chemicals and energy. Manufacturing costs were higher for energy and chemicals, partiallylower, but were offset by lower woodhigher other operating costs. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $12$1 million higherlower in 2017. Operating costs were lower.2019.
EnteringLooking ahead to the first quarter of 2018,2020, compared with the fourth quarter of 2019, sales volumes for uncoated

freesheet paper are expected to be seasonally higher.lower. Average sales margins shouldare expected to decrease, primarily due to an unfavorable geographic mix. Input costs are expected to be relatively flat.stable. Planned maintenance outage costs are expected to be about $3 million lower in the first quarter of 2020. Operating costs are expected to be higher, partly due to the severe winter weather experienced in January. Input costs should be higher. Planned maintenance downtime costs will increase by about $22 million in the 2018 first quarter.lower.
Brazilian Papers 
European Papers 
In millions20172016201520192018
Net Sales (a)$972
$897
$878
$1,250
$1,252
Operating Profit (Loss)$194
$173
$186
$144
$129

(a) Includes intra-segment sales of $24 million for 2017 and $5 million for 2016.






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BrazilianEuropean Papers'sales volumes for uncoated freesheet paper in 20172019 were higher in Europe and Russia compared with 2016 reflecting improving economic conditions.2018. Average sales price realizationsmargins increased primarily for domestic uncoated freesheet paper due toin both regions, reflecting the realization of price increases implemented throughout 2018 and 2019. Input costs were higher for wood and chemicals in 2016, while export sales price realizations also increased. Raw material costs decreased for pulp, but were partly offset by higher costs forEurope and chemicals and virgin fiber. Operating costs were lower thanenergy in 2016.Russia. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $4$3 million lower.higher in 2019 than in 2018. Operating costs were higher. Earnings were negatively affected by unfavorable foreign currency impacts in both regions.
Looking ahead to 2018, compared with the fourth quarter of 2017,Entering 2020, sales volumes for uncoated freesheet paper in the first quarter are expected to increase in Europe, but expected to decrease in Russia, compared to the fourth quarter of 2019. Average sales margins are expected to be seasonally weakerlower in Europe and stable in Russia. Input costs should be higher in both domesticregions, mainly for chemicals in Europe and export markets. Average sales price realizationswood and chemicals in Russia. Maintenance outage costs should increasebe about $9 million lower due to no planned outages in the implementation of sales price increases in both domestic and export markets. Inputfirst quarter. Operating costs are expected to be slightly higher for wood, chemicals and energy. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to be $5 million higher in the first quarter of 2018.lower.
European Papers 
Indian Papers 
In millions20172016201520192018
Net Sales$1,187
$1,109
$1,064
$160
$202
Operating Profit (Loss)$136
$142
$111
$19
$17
European Papers' sales volumesOn May 29, 2019, International Paper announced it had entered into an agreement to sell its controlling interest in its Indian Papersbusiness. The transaction closed on October 30, 2019.See Note 8 Divestitures and Impairments on pages 56 through 58 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for uncoated freesheet paper in 2017 were lower in Russia and about flat in Europe compared with 2016. Average sales price realizations improved for uncoated freesheet paper following price increases implemented in 2017. Input costs were higher for wood, energy, chemicals and purchased pulp. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $22 million lower in 2017 than in 2016.further discussion.
Entering 2018, sales volumes for uncoated freesheet paper in the first quarter are expected to be stable. Average sales price realizations are expected to be slightly lower in Russia, but higher in Europe. Input costs should be slightly lower, mainly for wood. Planned maintenance downtime costs in the first quarter of 2018 should be $8 million higher than in the fourth quarter of 2017.
Indian Papers   
In millions201720162015
Net Sales$189
$167
$172
Operating Profit (Loss)$(5)$(11)$(11)
Indian Papers' average sales price realizations in 2017 were higher than in 2016. Sales volumes also increased. Input costs were lower for wood, partially offset by higher chemical costs. Operating costs were higher in 2017, while planned maintenance downtime costs were even with 2016. Looking ahead to the first quarter of 2018, sales volumes are expected to be slightly lower than in the 2017 fourth quarter, but seasonally strong. Average sales price realizations are expected to increase.
Equity Earnings, Net of Taxes – Ilim Holding S.A.EQUITY EARNINGS, NET OF TAXES - ILIM
International Paper accounts for its investment in Ilim Holding S.A. (Ilim), a separate reportable industry segment, using the equity method of accounting.

The Company recorded equity earnings, net of taxes, related to Ilim of $183$207 million in 20172019, compared with earnings of $199$290 million in 2016 and earnings of $131 million in 2015.2018. Operating results recorded in 20172019 included an after-tax noncashnon-cash foreign exchange gain of $15$32 million, compared with an after-tax foreign exchange gain of $25 million in 2016 and an after-tax
foreign exchange loss of $75$82 million in 20152018, primarily on the remeasurement of Ilim's U.S. dollar denominated net debt.

SalesComing off of a strong market in 2018, sales volumes for the joint venture decreased year over yearby 3% in 2019, primarily for containerboard shipments to China, of softwood pulpRussia and linerboard, but were partially offset by increased salesother export markets. Shipments of hardwood pulp to China. Sales volumes in the Russian market decreased for softwood pulp and hardwood pulp to China were slightly higher, but increased for linerboard.fell below prior year levels in Russia and other export markets. Average sales price realizations were higher in 2017significantly lower for sales of softwood pulp, hardwood pulp and linerboard to China and other exportcontainerboard in all markets. Average sales price realizations in Russian markets increased year over year for all products. Input costs also increased in 2017were higher, primarily for wood, energychemicals and fuel. Distribution costs were highernegatively impacted by transportation tariffs and inflation. Ilim completed two major capital projects in 2017.2019: the rebuild of the kraft linerboard line at its Bratsk mill and the modernization of a pulp line at the Ust Ilmsk mill. The Company received cash dividends from the joint venture of $133$246 million in 2017, $582019 and $128 million in 2016, and $35 million in 2015.

2018.
Entering the first quarter of 2018,2020, sales volumes are expected to be lower than in the fourth quarter of 20172019, due to the seasonal slowdown in Russia and export markets. AverageChina. Based on pricing to date in the current quarter, average sales price realizationsprices are expected to increasedecrease for softwood pulp, hardwood pulp softwood pulp and linerboard to China.containerboard. Input costs are expected to be lower, whileand distribution costs are projected to increase.be relatively flat.

EQUITY EARNINGS - GPIP
International Paper recorded equity earnings of $46 million in 2019 and $46 million in 2018 on its ownership position in GPIP. The Company received cash dividends from the investment of $27 million in 2019 and $25 million in 2018.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
OverviewOVERVIEW
A major factor in International Paper’s liquidity and capital resource planning is its generation of operating cash flow, which is highly sensitive to changes in the pricing and demand for our major products. While changes in key operating cash operating costs, such as energy, raw material, energy, mill outage and transportation costs,distribution, do have an effect on operating cash generation, we believe that our focus on pricingcommercial and cost controlsoperational excellence, as well as our ability to tightly manage costs and working capital has improved our cash flow generation over an operating cycle.
Cash usesUse of cash during 2017 were2019 was primarily focused on working capital requirements, capital spending, debt reductions, pension contributions,reduction and returning cash to shareholders.shareholders through dividends and share repurchases under the Company's share repurchase program.




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CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Cash provided by operations, including discontinued operations, totaled $1.8$3.6 billion in 20172019, compared with $2.53.2 billion for 2016 and $2.6 billion for 20152018. Cash usedprovided by working capital components (accounts receivable, contract assets and inventory less accounts payable and accrued liabilities, interest payable and other) totaled $402342 million in 20172019, compared with cash providedused by working capital components of $71439 million in 2016 and a cash use for working capital components of $2222018. Cash dividends received from equity investments were $273 million in 2015. The increase2019, compared with $153 million in 2017 working capital is largely due to growth in receivables primarily tied to year-over-year price increases.2018.


Investment ActivitiesINVESTMENT ACTIVITIES
Including discontinued operations, the cash outflow from investment activities in 20172019 decreased from 20162018, as 20162018 included the purchase of Weyerhaeuser's pulp business for $2.2 billion in cash, the purchase of the Holmen business for $57 million in cash, net of cash acquired, and proceeds from the sale of the Asia Packaging business of $108 million, net of cash divested. In 2015, investment activity includes higher capital spending and the use of $198 million of cash in conjunction with the timber monetization restructuring (see Note 12 Variable Interest Entities and Preferred Securities of Subsidiaries on pages 63 through 64 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data).spending. The Company maintains an average capital spending target around depreciation and amortization levels, or modestly above, due to strategic plans over the course of an economic cycle. Capital spending was $1.41.3 billion in 20172019, or 98% of depreciation and amortization, compared with $1.31.6 billion in 20162018, or 110%118% of depreciation and amortization, and $1.5 billion, or 115% of depreciation and amortization in 2015.amortization. Across our businesses,segments, capital spending as a percentage of depreciation and amortization ranged from 37.5%61.6% to 107.0%116.1% in 20172019.
The following table shows capital spending for operations by business segment for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162019 and 2015, excluding amounts related to discontinued operations of $111 million in 2017, $107 million in 2016 and $177 million in 2015.2018.
In millions20172016201520192018
Industrial Packaging$836
$832
$871
$922
$1,061
Global Cellulose Fibers188
174
129
162
183
Printing Papers235
215
232
172
303
Subtotal1,259
1,221
1,232
1,256
1,547
Corporate and other21
20
78
20
25
Capital Spending$1,280
$1,241
$1,310
$1,276
$1,572
Capital expendituresspending in 2018 are currently2020 is expected to be about approximately $1.51.0 billion, or 111%74% of depreciation and amortization.
amortization, including approximately $250 million of strategic investments. The expected reduction in capital spending in 2020 is primarily due to the completion of large strategic investments in our containerboard mill system, including the Madrid, Spain mill and the Riverdale mill conversions, which is expected to be completed in the first half of 2020.
Acquisitions
Acquisitions and Joint Ventures

See Note 67 Acquisitions and Joint Ventures on pages 51 through 53page 56 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for a discussion of the Company's acquisitions.


Financing Activities

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Amounts related to early debt extinguishment during the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162019 and 20152018 were as follows:
In millions20172016201520192018
Debt reductions (a)$993
$266
$2,151
Early debt reductions (a)$614
$780
Pre-tax early debt extinguishment costs (b)83
29
207
21
10


(a)
Reductions related to notes with interest rates ranging from 1.57%3.00% to 9.38%9.50% with original maturities from 20152021 to 20302048 for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162019 and 20152018. Includes the $630 million payment for a portion of the Special Purpose Entity Liability for the year ended December 31, 2015 (see Note 12 Variable Interest Entities).
(b)Amounts are included in Restructuring and other charges in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.


2017:2019: Financing activities during 20172019 included debt issuances of $1.9$534 million and reductions of $1.5 billion for a net decrease of $973 million.

In June 2019, International Paper issued $200 million of 3.55% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2029. The proceeds from this offering, together with a combination of available cash and other borrowings, were used for general corporate purposes, including repayment of outstanding commercial paper borrowings and other existing indebtedness.

In October 2019, International Paper issued $127 million of environmental development bonds with interest rates ranging from 1.90% to 2.10% and maturity dates in 2024. The proceeds from this offering were used to repay other existing environmental development bonds.

In June 2018, the borrowing capacity of the commercial paper program was increased from $750 million to $1.0 billion. Under the terms of the program, individual maturities on borrowings may vary, but may not exceed one year from the date of issuance. Interest bearing notes may be issued either as fixed notes or floating rate notes. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company had $30 million and $465 million, respectively, outstanding under this program.

Other financing activities during 2019 included the net repurchase of approximately 8.5 million shares of treasury stock, including restricted stock tax withholding. Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock withholding taxes totaled $535 million, including $485 million related to shares repurchased under the Company's share repurchase program. On October 9, 2018, the Company announced an authorization to repurchase $2 billion of the Company's common stock to supplement remaining amounts under prior share repurchase authorizations, bringing total share repurchase authorizations since 2013 to $5.0 billion. The Company will continue to repurchase such shares in open market repurchase transactions. Under the $5.0 billion share repurchase program, the Company has repurchased 68.9 million shares at an average price

of $47.23, for a total of approximately $3.3 billion, as of December 31, 2019.

In October 2019, International Paper announced that the quarterly dividend would be increased from $0.50 per share to $0.5125 per share, effective for the 2019 fourth quarter.

2018: Financing activities during 2018 included debt issuances of $490 million and retirements of $1.4$1.0 billion for a net increasedecrease of $483$518 million.

Other financing activities during 2018 included the net repurchase of approximately 12.3 million. shares of treasury stock, including restricted stock tax withholding. Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock withholding taxes totaled $732 million, including $700 million related to shares repurchased under the Company's share repurchase program.

In October 2018, International Paper announced that the quarterly dividend would be increased from $0.4750 per share to $0.50 per share, effective for the 2018 fourth quarter.
Interest Rate Swaps

International Paper utilizes interest rate swaps to change the mix of fixed and variable rate debt and manage interest expense. At December 31, 2017,2019 and 2018, International Paper had no interest rate swap contracts outstandingswaps with a notional amount of $700 million and maturities ranging from 2024 to 2026 (see Note 1417 Derivatives and Hedging Activities on pages 6571 through 6975 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data). During 2017,2019 and 2018, the inclusion of the offsetting interest income from short-term investments reduced the effective interest rate from 5.0%4.8% to 4.7%.

In 2017, International Paper issued $1.0 billion of 4.35% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2048. The proceeds4.4% and from this offering, together with a combination of available cash and other borrowings, were used4.8% to make a $1.25 billion voluntary cash contribution to the Company's pension plan. In December 2017, International Paper received $660 million in cash proceeds from a new loan entered into as part of the transfer of the North American Consumer Packaging business to a subsidiary of Graphic Packing Holding Company discussed in Note 7. The Company used the cash proceeds, together with available cash, to pay down existing debt of approximately $900 million of notes with interest rates ranging from 1.92% to 9.38% and original maturities from 2018 to 2021. Pre-tax early debt retirement costs of $83 million related to the debt repayments, including $82 million of cash premiums, are included in restructuring and other charges in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2017. The $6604.6%, respectively.

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million term loan was subsequently assumed by Graphic Packaging International, LLC on January 1, 2018 and is classified as Liabilities held for sale in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

In June 2016, International Paper entered into a commercial paper program with a borrowing capacity of $750 million. Under the terms of the program, individual maturities on borrowings may vary, but not exceed one year from the date of issue. Interest bearing notes may be issued either as fixed notes or floating rate notes. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had $180 million and $165 million, respectively, outstanding under this commercial paper program.

Other financing activities during 2017 included the net issuance of approximately 1.7 million shares of treasury stock, including restricted stock withholding. Payments of restricted stock withholding taxes totaled $47.0 million.

In October 2017, International Paper announced that the quarterly dividend would be increased from $0.4625 per share to $0.4750 per share, effective for the 2017 fourth quarter.

2016: Financing activities during 2016 included debt issuances of $3.8 billion and retirements of $1.9 billion for a net increase of $1.9 billion.

International Paper utilizes interest rate swaps to change the mix of fixed and variable rate debt and manage interest expense. At December 31, 2016, International Paper had no interest rate swap contracts outstanding (see Note 14 Derivatives and Hedging Activities on pages 65 through 69 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data). During 2016, the amortization of deferred gains on previously terminated swaps had no impact on the weighted average cost of long-term recourse debt. The inclusion of the offsetting interest income from short-term investments reduced the effective rate from 5.3% to 4.8%.

In 2016, International Paper issued $1.1 billion of 3.00% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2027, and $1.2 billion of 4.40% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2047, the proceeds from which were primarily used to fund the acquisition of Weyerhaeuser's pulp business. In addition, the Company repaid approximately $266 million of notes with an interest rate of 7.95% and an original maturity of 2018. Pre-tax early debt retirement costs of $29 million related to the debt repayments, including the $31 million of cash premiums, are included in restructuring and other charges in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016.



In December 2016, International Paper entered into a new $1.5 billion contractually committed credit facility that expires in December 2021 and has a facility fee of 0.15% payable annually.

Other financing activities during 2016 included the net repurchase of approximately 0.9 million shares of treasury stock, including restricted stock withholding. Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock withholding taxes totaled $132.3 million, including $100.1 million related to shares repurchased under the Company's share repurchase program.
In October 2016, International Paper announced that the quarterly dividend would be increased from $0.44 per share to $0.46 per share, effective for the 2016 fourth quarter.

2015: Financing activities during 2015 included debt issuances of $6.9 billion and retirements of $6.9 billion for a net decrease of $74 million.

During 2015, the Company restructured the timber monetization which resulted in the use of $630 million in cash to pay down a portion of the third party bank loans and refinance the loans on nonrecourse terms. (see Note 12 Variable Interest Entities on pages 63 through 64 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data).

International Paper utilizes interest rate swaps to change the mix of fixed and variable rate debt and manage interest expense. At December 31, 2015, International Paper had interest rate swaps with a total notional amount of $17 million and maturities in 2018 (see Note 14 Derivatives and Hedging Activities on pages 65 through 69 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data). During 2015, existing swaps and the amortization of deferred gains on previously terminated swaps decreased the weighted average cost of debt from 5.9% to an effective rate of 5.8%. The inclusion of the offsetting interest income from short-term investments reduced this effective rate to 5.1%.

In 2015, International Paper issued $700 million of 3.80% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2026, $600 million of 5.00% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2035, and $700 million of 5.15% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2046. The proceeds from this borrowing were used to repay approximately $1.0 billion of notes with interest rates ranging from 4.75% to 9.38% and original maturities from 2018 to 2022, along with $211 million of cash premiums associated with the debt repayments. Additionally, the proceeds from this borrowing were used to make a $750 million voluntary cash contribution to the Company's pension plan. Pre-tax early debt retirement costs of $207 million related to the debt repayments, including the $211 million of cash premiums, are included in restructuring and other charges in the accompanying consolidated statement of

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operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2015.

Other financing activities during 2015 included the net repurchase of approximately 8.0 million shares of treasury stock, including restricted stock withholding, and the issuance of 62,000 shares of common stock for various plans, including stock option exercises that generated approximately $2.4 million of cash. Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock withholding taxes totaled $604.6 million, including $522.6 million related to shares repurchased under the Company's share repurchase program.
In October 2015, International Paper announced that the quarterly dividend would be increased from $0.40 per share to $0.44 per share, effective for the 2015 fourth quarter.
Variable Interest Entities
Information concerning variable interest entities is set forth in Note 1215 Variable Interest Entities on pages 6368 through 6470 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. In connection with the 2006 International Paper installment sale of forestlands, we received $4.8 billion of installment notes. These installment notes were used by variable interest entities as collateral for discussionborrowings from third-party lenders. These variable interest entities were restructured in 2015 when the installment notes and third-party loans were extended. The restructured variable interest entities hold installment notes of $4.8 billion that mature in August 2021 (unless extended) and third-party loans of $4.2 billion that mature in the fourth quarter of 2020 (unless extended). These third-party loans are shown in Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. We are evaluating alternatives for extending the installment notes and refinancing the third-party loans.
Liquidity and Capital Resources Outlook for 2018
Failure to extend, renew or refinance these third-party loans prior to their stated maturity, which we believe is unlikely, could necessitate a disposition of the installment notes to facilitate the $4.2 billion debt payment, which we are confident could be achieved.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES OUTLOOK FOR 2020
Capital Expenditures and Long-Term Debt
International Paper expects to be able to meet projected capital expenditures, service existing debt and meet working capital and dividend requirements during 20182020 with current cash balances and cash from operations. Additionally, the Company has existing credit facilities totaling $2.1 billion available at December 31, 2017.2019.
The Company will continue to rely upon debt and capital markets for the majority of any necessary long-term funding not provided by operating cash flows. Funding decisions will be guided by our capital structure planning objectives. The primary goals of the Company’s capital structure planning are to maximize financial flexibility and preserve liquidity while reducing interest expense. The majority of International Paper’s debt is accessed through global public capital markets where we have a wide base of investors. The Company was in compliance with all its debt covenants at December 31, 20172019, and was well below the thresholds stipulated under the covenants as defined in theour credit agreements.
Maintaining an investment grade credit rating is an important element of International Paper’s financing strategy. At December 31, 20172019, the Company held long-term credit ratings of BBB (stable outlook) and Baa2 (stable outlook) by S&P and Moody’s, respectively.


Contractual obligations for future payments under existing debt and lease commitments and purchase obligations at December 31, 20172019, were as follows:
In millions20182019202020212022Thereafter20202021202220232024Thereafter
Maturities of long-term debt (a)$311
$126
$164
$440
$956
$9,160
Debt maturities$168
$431
$136
$355
$803
$7,872
Lease obligations130
102
77
53
37
141
163
125
89
55
34
169
Purchase obligations (b)(a)3,415
680
583
523
463
2,197
3,155
707
502
417
322
1,644
Total (c)(b)$3,856
$908
$824
$1,016
$1,456
$11,498
$3,486
$1,263
$727
$827
$1,159
$9,685

(a)Total debt includes scheduled principal payments only.
(b)Includes $1.6$1.3 billion relating to fiber supply agreements entered into at the time of the 2006 Transformation Plan forestland sales and in conjunction with the 2008 acquisition of Weyerhaeuser Company’s Containerboard, Packaging and Recycling business. Also includes $1.2$1.1 billion relating to fiber supply agreements assumed in conjunction with the 2016 acquisition of Weyerhaeuser's pulp business.
(c)(b)Not included in the above table due to the uncertainty of the amount and timing of the payment are unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $134$153 million. Also not included in the above table is $128 million of Deemed Repatriation Transition Tax associated with the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act which will be settled from 2020 - 2026.
We consider the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries as of December 31, 20172019, to be permanently reinvested and, accordingly, no U.S. income taxes have

been provided thereon. As a result of recent U.S. tax legislation, the Company is evaluating this assertionthereon (see Note 1013 Income Taxes on pages 5762 through 6065 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data). As of December 31, 2017, the amount of cash associated with permanently reinvested foreign earnings was approximately $590 million. We do not anticipate the need to repatriate funds to the United States to satisfy domestic liquidity needs arising in the ordinary course of business, including liquidity needs associated with our domestic debt service requirements.
Pension Obligations and Funding
At December 31, 20172019, the projected benefit obligation for the Company’s U.S. defined benefit plans determined under U.S. GAAP was approximately $1.91.5 billion higher than the fair value of plan assets.assets, excluding non-U.S. plans. Approximately $1.5$1.2 billion of this amount relates to plans that are subject to minimum funding requirements. Under current IRS funding rules, the calculation of minimum funding requirements differs from the calculation of the present value of plan benefits(thebenefits (the projected benefit obligation) for accounting purposes. In December 2008, the Worker, Retiree and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 (WERA) was passed by the U.S. Congress which provided for pension funding relief and technical corrections. Funding contributions depend on the funding method selected by the Company, and the timing of its implementation, as





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well as on actual demographic data and the targeted funding level. The Company continually reassesses the amount and timing of any discretionary contributions and elected not to make any voluntary contributions totaling $1,250 million and $750 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.in 2018 or 2019. At this time, we do not expect to have any required contributions to our plans in 20182020, although the Company may elect to make future voluntary contributions. The timing and amount of future contributions, which could be material, will depend on a number of factors, including the actual earnings and changes in values of plan assets and changes in interest rates.

During the fourth quarter of 2017,2018, the Company entered into an agreement with The Prudential Insurance Company of America to purchase a group annuity contract and transfer approximately $1.3$1.6 billion of International Paper's U.S. qualified pension plan projected benefit obligations.obligations, subject to customary closing conditions. The transaction closed on October 3, 20172, 2018 and was funded with pension plan assets. Under the transaction, at the end of 2017,2018, Prudential assumed responsibility for pension benefits and annuity administration for approximately 45,00023,000 retirees or their beneficiaries receiving less than $450$1,000 in monthly benefit payments from the plan. Settlement accounting rules required a remeasurement of the qualified plan as of October 3, 20172, 2018 and the Company recognized a non-cash pension settlement charge of $376$424 million before tax in the fourth quarter of 2017. In addition, large payments from the non-qualified pension plan also required a remeasurement as of October 2, 2017 and a non-cash settlement charge of $7 million was also recognized in the fourth quarter of 2017.2018.
During the first quarter of 2016, International Paper announced a voluntary, limited-time opportunity for former employees who are participants in the Retirement Plan of International Paper Company (the Pension Plan) to request early payment of their entire Pension Plan benefit in the form of a single lump sum payment. The amount of total payments under this program was approximately $1.2 billion, and were made from Plan trust assets on June 30, 2016. Based on the level of payments made, settlement accounting rules applied and resulted in a plan remeasurement as of the June 30, 2016 payment date. As a result of settlement accounting, the Company recognized a pro-rata portion of the unamortized net actuarial loss, after remeasurement, resulting in a $439 million non-cash charge to the Company's earnings in the second quarter of 2016. Additional payments of $8 million and $9 million were made during the third and fourth quarters, respectively, due to mandatory cash payouts and a small lump sum payout, and the Pension Plan was subsequently remeasured at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2016. As a result of settlement accounting, the Company recognized non-cash settlement charges of $3 million in both the third and fourth quarters of 2016.
 
Ilim Holding S.A. Shareholder’s AgreementILIM SHAREHOLDER'S AGREEMENT

In October 2007, in connection with the formation of the Ilim Holding S.A. joint venture, International Paper entered into a shareholder’s agreement that includes provisions relating to the reconciliation of disputes among the partners. This agreement provides that at any time, either the Company or its partners may commence procedures specified under the deadlock agreement. If these or any other deadlock procedures under the shareholder's agreement are commenced, although it is not obligated to do so, the Company may in certain situations choose to purchase its partners' 50% interest in Ilim. Any such transaction would be subject to review and approval by Russian and other relevant anti-trust authorities. Based on the provisions of the agreement, the Company estimates that the current purchase price for its partners' 50% interests would be approximately $1.5$1.6 billion, which could be satisfied by payment of cash or International Paper common stock, or some combination of the two, at the Company's option. The purchase by the Company of its partners’ 50% interest in Ilim would result in the consolidation of Ilim's financial position and results of operations in all subsequent periods. The parties have informed each other that they have no current intention to commence procedures specified under the deadlock provisions of the shareholder’s agreement.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires International Paper to establish accounting policies and to make estimates that affect both the amounts and timing of the recording of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Some of these estimates require subjective judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain.
Accounting policies whose application may have a significant effect on the reported results of operations and financial position of International Paper, and that can require judgments by management that affect their application, include the accounting for contingencies, impairment or disposal of long-lived assets and goodwill, pensions and postretirement benefit obligations, stock options and income taxes. The Company has discussed the selection of critical accounting policies and the effect of significant estimates with the Audit and Finance Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors.Directors and with its independent registered public accounting firm.
Contingent LiabilitiesCONTINGENT LIABILITIES
Accruals for contingent liabilities, including legal,personal injury, product liability, environmental and environmentalother legal matters, are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred or an asset impaired and the amount

of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Liabilities accrued for legal matters require judgments

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regarding projected outcomes and range of loss based on historical litigation and settlement experience and recommendations of legal counsel.counsel and, if applicable, other experts. Liabilities for environmental matters require evaluations of relevant environmental regulations and estimates of future remediation alternatives and costs. The Company utilizes its in-house legal and environmental experts to develop estimates of its legal and environmental obligations, supplemented as needed by third-party specialists to analyze its most complex contingent liabilities.
We calculate our workers' compensation reserves based on estimated actuarially calculated development factors. The workers' compensation reserves are reviewed at least quarterly to determine the adequacy of the accruals and related financial statement disclosure. While we believe that our assumptions are appropriate, the ultimate settlement of workers' compensation reserves may differ significantly from amounts we have accrued in our consolidated financial statements.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and GoodwillIMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS AND GOODWILL

An impairment of a long-lived asset exists when the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its fair value, and is recorded when the carrying amount is not recoverable through undiscounted cash flows from future operations.operations or disposals. A goodwill impairment exists when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its fair value. Assessments of possible impairments of long-lived assets and goodwill are made when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable through future operations. Additionally, testingevaluation for possible impairment of goodwill and intangible asset balances is required annually. The amount and timing of any impairment charges based on these assessments may require the estimation of future cash flows andor the fair market value of the related assets based on management’s best estimates of certain key factors, including future selling prices and volumes, operating, raw material, energy and freight costs, and various other projected operating economic factors.factors and other intended uses of the assets. As these key factors change in future periods, the Company will update its impairment analysesanalysis to reflect its latest estimates and projections.

ASU 2011-08, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other," allows entities testing goodwill for impairment the option of performing a qualitative ("Step 0") assessment before calculatingperforming the fair value of a reporting unit for thequantitative goodwill impairment test. If a Step 0qualitative assessment is performed, an entity is no longernot required to calculateperform the fair value of a reporting unitquantitative goodwill impairment test unless the entity determines that, based on that Step 0qualitative assessment, it is more likely than not that its fair value is less than its carrying value.

The Company performed its annual testing of its reporting units for possible goodwill impairments by applying the qualitative Step 0 analysisassessment to its North America Industrial Packaging, European Papers, Russian Papers, and Brazilian Papers reporting units and the quantitative goodwill impairment test to its Global Cellulose Fibers and EMEA Industrial Packaging reporting units as of October 1, 2017.2019. For the current year test,this evaluation, the Company assessed various assumptions, events and circumstances that would have affected the estimated fair value of the reporting units. The resultsunits under the qualitative assessment for the reporting units listed above and the result of thisthe qualitative assessment indicated that it is not more likely than not
that the fair values of the Company'sits North America Industrial Packaging, European Papers, Russian Papers, and Brazilian Papers reporting units were less than their carrying values.

The Company also performed the quantitative goodwill impairment test which included comparing the carrying valuesamount of the Global Cellulose Fibers and EMEA Industrial Packaging reporting units.units to their estimated fair value. The Company performed the quantitative goodwill impairment test for Global Cellulose Fibers due to the reporting unit's outlook and for EMEA Industrial Packaging due to the changes in the reporting unit's asset base as a result of strategic capital projects and acquisitions since the previous quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company calculated the estimated
fair value of its Global Cellulose Fibers and EMEA Industrial Packaging reporting units using a probability-weighted approach based on discounted future cash flows, market multiples and transaction multiples. The carrying amount did not exceed the estimated fair value of the EMEA Industrial Packaging reporting unit. The carrying amount did exceed the estimated fair value of the Global Cellulose Fibers reporting unit, and it was determined that all of the goodwill in the reporting unit, totaling $52 million, was impaired. This impairment charge was recognized during the fourth quarter of 2019. The decline in the fair value of Global Cellulose Fibers and resulting impairment charge was due to a change in the outlook of the Global Cellulose Fibers reporting unit's operations.

In addition, the Company considered whether there were any events or circumstances subsequent tooutside of the annual testevaluation that would reduce the fair value of its reporting units below their carrying amounts and necessitate anothera goodwill impairment test.evaluation. In consideration of all relevant factors, there were no indicators that would require goodwill impairment subsequent to October 1, 2017.2019.


No goodwill impairment charges were recorded in 2017 or 2016.2018.


InDuring 2018, a determination was made that the fourth quarter of 2015, in conjunction with the annual testing of its reporting units for goodwill impairment, the Company calculated the estimated faircurrent carrying value of itsthe long-lived assets of the Brazil Packaging business using the discounted future cash flows and determined that all of the goodwillexceeded their estimated fair value

due to a change in the business, totaling $137 million, should be written off. The decline inoutlook for the business. Management engaged a third party to assist with determining the fair value of the Brazil Packaging business and resulting impairment charge was due to the negative impacts on the cash flowsfixed assets. The fair value of the business caused bywas calculated using a probability-weighted approach based on discounted future cash flows, market multiples, and transaction multiples and the continued declinefair value of the overall Brazilian economy.fixed assets was determined using a market approach. As a result, a pre-tax charge of $122 million ($81 million, net of tax) was recorded related to the impairment of an intangible asset and fixed assets.
Pension and Postretirement Benefit ObligationsPENSION BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS
The charges recorded for pension and other postretirement benefit obligations are determined annually in conjunction with International Paper’s consulting actuary, and are dependent upon various assumptions including the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, discount rates, projected future compensation increases health care cost trend rates and mortality rates.
The calculations of pension and postretirement benefit obligations and expenses require decisions about a number of key assumptions that can significantly affect liability and expense amounts, including the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and the discount rate used to calculate plan liabilities, the projected rate of future compensation increases and health care cost trend rates.liabilities.
Benefit obligations and fair values of plan assets as of December 31, 20172019, for International Paper’s pension and postretirement plansplan were as follows:
In millionsBenefit
Obligation
Fair Value of
Plan Assets
Benefit
Obligation
Fair Value of
Plan Assets
U.S. qualified pension$12,895
$11,368
$11,318
$10,165
U.S. nonqualified pension369

381

U.S. postretirement270

Non-U.S. pension247
176
253
183
Non-U.S. postretirement25



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The table below shows assumptions used by International Paper to calculate U.S. pension obligations for the years shown:
201720162015201920182017
Discount rate3.60%4.10%4.40%3.40%4.30%3.60%
Rate of compensation increase3.75%3.75%3.75%2.25%2.25%3.75%
Additionally, health care cost trend rates and other assumptions used in the calculation of U.S. postretirement obligations for the years shown were:
 20172016
Discount rate3.50%4.00%
Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year6.50%6.50%
Rate that the cost trend rate gradually declines to5.00%5.00%
Year that the rate reaches the rate it is assumed to remain2022
2022


International Paper determines these actuarial assumptions, after consultation with our actuaries, on December 31 of each year or more frequently if required, to calculate liability information as of that date and pension and postretirement expense for the following year. The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is based on projected rates of return for current and planned asset classes in the plan’s investment portfolio. The discount rate assumption was determined based on a hypothetical settlement portfolio selected from a universe of high quality corporate bonds.


The expected long-term rate of return on U.S. pension plan assets used to determine net periodic cost for the year ended December 31, 20172019 was 7.50%7.25%.
Increasing (decreasing) the expected long-term rate of return on U.S. plan assets by an additional 0.25% would decrease (increase) 20182020 pension expense by approximately $2724 million, while a (decrease) increase of 0.25% in the discount rate would (increase) decrease pension expense by approximately $3531 million. The effect on net postretirement benefit cost from a 1% increase or decrease in the annual health care cost trend rate would be approximately $1 million.
Actual rates of return earned on U.S. pension plan assets for each of the last 10 years were:
YearReturnYearReturnReturnYearReturn
201923.9 %20146.4%
2018(3.0)%201314.1%
201719.3%201214.1 %19.3 %201214.1%
20167.1%20112.5 %7.1 %20112.5%
20151.3%201015.1 %1.3 %201015.1%
20146.4%200923.8 %
201314.1%2008(23.6)%
The 2012, 2013 and 2014 returns above represent weighted averages of International Paper and Temple-Inland asset returns. International Paper and Temple-
InlandTemple-Inland assets were combined in October 2014. The annualized time-weighted rate of return earned on U.S. pension plan assets was 9.4%9.2% and 7.2%9.8% for the past five and ten years, respectively. The following graph shows the growth of a $1,000 investment in International Paper’s U.S. Pension Plan Master Trust. The graph portrays the time-weighted rate of return from 2007 – 2017.

ASC 715, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits,” provides for delayed recognition of actuarial gains and losses, including amounts arising from changes in the estimated projected plan benefit obligation due to changes in the assumed discount rate, differences between the actual and expected return on plan assets, and other assumption changes. These net gains and losses are recognized in pension expense prospectively over a period that approximates the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits under the plans to the extent that they are not offset by gains and losses in subsequent years. The estimated net loss and prior service cost that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic pension cost for the U.S. pension plans over the next fiscal year are $327 million and $17 million, respectively.
Net periodic pension and postretirement plan expenses, calculated for all of International Paper’s plans, were as follows:
In millions2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
Pension expense
 
 
U.S. plans (non-cash)$717
$809

$461

$387

$545
Non-U.S. plans5
4
6

5
Postretirement expense
 
U.S. plans17
13
8
7
(1)$93
$632
$717
$809
$461
Non-U.S. plans1
1
5
7
7
6
4
5
4
6
Net expense$740
$827

$480

$401

$556
$99
$636
$722
$813
$467

The decrease in 2017 U.S.2019 pension expense primarily reflects lower service cost due to the salaried pension freeze, lower amortization and the absence of a settlement losses and lower actuarial losses partiallyloss in the current year slightly offset by lower asset returns due to the annuity purchase as well as curtailment and special termination benefit charges.returns.



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Assuming that discount rates, expected long-term returns on plan assets and rates of future compensation increases remain the same as of December 31, 20172019, projected future net periodic pension and postretirement plan expenses would be as follows:
In millions2019201820212020
Pension expense  
U.S. plans (non-cash)$30
$167
Non-U.S. plans5
4
Postretirement expense 
U.S. plans14
16
$(11)$46
Non-U.S. plans1
1
4
5
Net expense$50
$188
Net (income) expense$(7)$51
The Company estimates that it will record net pension expense of approximately $16746 million for its U.S. defined benefit plans in 20182020, compared to expense of $717$93 million in 2017.2019. The 2017 expense includes $45 million of curtailment and special pension benefits associated with the North American Consumer Packaging business and $383 million of settlement accounting charges. Excluding these settlement charges and curtailment and special pension benefits, the estimated decrease in net pension expense in 20182020 is primarily due to higher return on assets and lower interest cost on the reduced pension obligationpartially offset by higher amortization of actuarial losses and a higher expected return on assets associated with the increased pension asset balance.service cost.
The market value of plan assets for International Paper’s U.S. qualified pension plan at December 31, 20172019 totaled approximately $11.410.2 billion, consisting of approximately 49%37% equity securities, 36%50% debt securities, 10%8% real estate funds and 5% other assets.
The Company’s funding policy for its qualified pension plans is to contribute amounts sufficient to meet legal funding requirements, plus any additional amounts that the Company may determine to be appropriate considering the funded status of the plan, tax deductibility, the cash flows generated by the Company, and other factors. The Company continually reassesses the amount and timing of any discretionary contributions and could elect to make voluntary contributions in the future. There arewere no required contributions to the U.S. qualified plan in 2018.2019. The nonqualified defined benefit plans are funded to the extent of benefit payments, which totaled $4026 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.

INCOME TAXES

International Paper records its global tax provision based on the respective tax rules and regulations for the jurisdictions in which it operates. Where the Company believes that a tax position is supportable for income tax purposes, the item is included in its income tax returns. Where treatment of a position is uncertain, liabilities are recorded based upon the Company’s evaluation of the “more likely than not” outcome considering technical merits of the position based on specific tax regulations and facts of each matter. Changes to recorded liabilities are only made when an identifiable event occurs that changes the likely outcome, such as settlement with the relevant tax authority, the expiration of statutes of limitation for the subject tax year, change in tax laws, or recent court cases that are relevant to the matter.
Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit
will not be realized. Significant judgment is required in evaluating the need for and magnitude of appropriate valuation allowances against deferred tax assets. The realization of these assets is dependent on generating future taxable income, as well as successful implementation of various tax planning strategies.
While International Paper believes that these judgments and estimates are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances, actual resolution of these matters may differ from recorded estimated amounts.

RECENT ACCOUNTING DEVELOPMENTS

See Note 2 Recent Accounting Developments on pages 50 through 52 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for a discussion of new accounting pronouncements.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Information concerning the Company’s environmental and legal proceedings is set forth in Note 14 Commitments and Contingent Liabilities on pages 65 through 68 of Item  8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

EFFECT OF INFLATION

While inflationary increases in certain input costs, such as energy, wood fiber and chemical costs, have an impact on the Company’s operating results, changes in general inflation have had minimal impact on our operating results in each of the last three years. Sales prices and volumes are more strongly influenced by economic supply and demand factors in specific markets and by exchange rate fluctuations than by inflationary factors.

FOREIGN CURRENCY EFFECTS

International Paper has operations in a number of countries. Its operations in those countries also export to, and compete with, imports from other regions. As such, currency movements can have a number of direct and indirect impacts on the Company’s financial statements. Direct impacts include the translation of international operations’ local currency financial statements into U.S. dollars and the remeasurement impact associated with non-functional currency financial assets and liabilities. Indirect impacts include the change in competitiveness of imports into, and exports out of, the United States (and the impact on local currency pricing of products that are traded internationally). In general, a weaker U.S. dollar and stronger local currency is beneficial to International Paper. The currencies that have the most impact are the Euro, the Brazilian real, the Polish zloty and the Russian ruble.



We use financial instruments, including fixed and variable rate debt, to finance operations, for capital spending programs and for general corporate purposes. Additionally, financial instruments, including various derivative contracts, are used to hedge exposures to interest rate, commodity and foreign currency risks. We do not use financial instruments for trading purposes. Information related to International Paper’s debt obligations is included in Note 16 Debt and Lines of Credit on pages 70 and 71 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. A discussion of derivatives and hedging activities is included in Note 17 Derivatives and Hedging Activities on pages 71 through 75 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
The fair value of our debt and financial instruments varies due to changes in market interest and foreign currency rates and commodity prices since the inception of the related instruments. We assess this market risk utilizing a sensitivity analysis. The sensitivity analysis measures the potential loss in earnings, fair values and cash flows based on a hypothetical 10% change (increase and decrease) in interest and currency rates and commodity prices.
INTEREST RATE RISK
Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to short- and long-term debt obligations and investments in marketable securities. We invest in investment-grade securities of financial institutions and money market mutual funds with a minimum rating of AAA and limit exposure to any one issuer or fund. Our investments in marketable securities at December 31, 2019 and 2018 are stated at cost, which approximates market due to their short-term nature. Our interest rate risk exposure related to these investments was not material.
We issue fixed and floating rate debt in a proportion that management deems appropriate based on current and projected market conditions. Derivative instruments, such as, interest rate swaps, may be used to execute this strategy. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the fair value of the net liability of financial instruments with exposure to interest rate risk was approximately $9.8 billion and $9.2 billion, respectively. The potential increase in fair value resulting from a 10% adverse shift in quoted interest rates would have been approximately $511 million and $538 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
COMMODITY PRICE RISK
The objective of our commodity exposure management is to minimize volatility in earnings due to large fluctuations in the price of commodities. Commodity swap or forward purchase contracts may be used to manage risks associated with market fluctuations in energy prices.

FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK

International Paper transacts business in many currencies and is also subject to currency exchange rate risk through investments and businesses owned and
operated in foreign countries. Our objective in managing the associated foreign currency risks is to minimize the effect of adverse exchange rate fluctuations on our after-tax cash flows. We address these risks on a limited basis by entering into cross-currency interest rate swaps, or foreign exchange contracts. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the net fair value of financial instruments with exposure to foreign currency risk was approximately a $16 million asset and an $8 million liability, respectively.
The potential loss in fair value for such financial instruments from a 10% adverse change in quoted foreign currency exchange rates would have been approximately $87 million and $29 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.



REPORT OF MANAGEMENT ON:

Financial Statements

The management of International Paper Company is responsible for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements in this annual report. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America considered appropriate in the circumstances to present fairly the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows on a consistent basis. Management has also prepared the other information in this annual report and is responsible for its accuracy and consistency with the consolidated financial statements.

As can be expected in a complex and dynamic business environment, some financial statement amounts are based on estimates and judgments. Even though estimates and judgments are used, measures have been taken to provide reasonable assurance of the integrity and reliability of the financial information contained in this annual report. We have formed a Disclosure Committee to oversee this process.

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been audited by the independent registered public accounting firm Deloitte & Touche LLP. During its audits, Deloitte & Touche LLP was given unrestricted access to all financial records and related data, including minutes of all meetings of stockholders and the board of directors and all committees of the board. Management believes that all representations made to the independent auditors during their audits were valid and appropriate.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The management of International Paper Company is also responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules (13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Internal control over financial reporting is the process designed by, or under the supervision of, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, and effected by our Board of Directors, management and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes. All internal control systems have inherent limitations, including the possibility of circumvention and overriding of controls, and therefore can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the designed control objectives. The Company’s internal control system is supported by written policies and procedures, contains self-
monitoring mechanisms, and is audited by the internal audit function. Appropriate actions are taken by management to correct deficiencies as they are identified. Our procedures for financial reporting include the active involvement of senior management, our Audit and Finance Committee and our staff of highly qualified financial and legal professionals.

The Company has assessed the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019. In making this assessment, it used the criteria described in “Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013)” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this assessment, management believes that, as of December 31, 2019, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective.

The Company completed the acquisitions of four packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar), France (Torigni and Cabourg), and Spain (Tavernes de la Valldigna and Montblanc) over the course of 2019. Due to the timing of these acquisitions, we have excluded these businesses from our evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. For the period ended December 31, 2019, sales and assets for these businesses represented approximately 0.4% of net sales and 0.6% of total assets.
The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued its report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. The report appears on pages 41 and 42.
Internal Control Environment And Board Of Directors Oversight

Our internal control environment includes an enterprise-wide attitude of integrity and control consciousness that establishes a positive “tone at the top.” This is exemplified by our ethics program that includes long-standing principles and policies on ethical business conduct that require employees to maintain the highest ethical and legal standards in the conduct of International Paper business, which have been distributed to all employees; a toll-free telephone helpline whereby any employee may anonymously report suspected violations of law or International Paper’s policy; and an office of ethics and business practice. The internal control system further includes careful selection and training of supervisory and management personnel, appropriate delegation of authority and division of responsibility, dissemination of accounting and business policies throughout International Paper, and an extensive program of internal audits with management follow-up.


The Board of Directors, assisted by the Audit and Finance Committee (Committee), monitors the integrity of the Company’s financial statements and financial reporting procedures, the performance of the Company’s internal audit function and independent auditors, and other matters set forth in its charter. The Committee, which consists of independent directors, meets regularly with representatives of management, and with the independent auditors and the Internal Auditor, with and without management representatives in attendance, to review their activities. The Committee’s Charter takes into account the New York Stock Exchange rules relating to Audit Committees and the SEC rules and regulations promulgated as a result of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Committee has reviewed and discussed the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, including critical accounting policies and significant management judgments, with management and the independent auditors. The Committee’s report recommending the inclusion of such financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K will be set forth in our Proxy Statement.

ceosignature01a11.jpg


MARK S. SUTTON
CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
timnichollssignaturea01.jpg

TIMOTHY S. NICHOLLS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of International Paper Company:
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of International Paper Company and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 19, 2020, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis,
evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Income Taxes - Valuation Allowances - Refer to Notes 1 and 13 to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The Company recognizes deferred income tax assets for deductible temporary differences and carryforwards. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized based on estimates of future taxable income.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $203 million related to indefinite-lived non-US net operating loss carryforwards. Management’s determination that a valuation allowance was necessary in the current year was influenced by current year changes in global tax laws, which have adversely impacted the time period over which the Company could reasonably realize the deferred tax asset based on its current global structure and ability to execute prudent and feasible tax planning actions.

We identified the valuation allowance as a critical audit matter because it is dependent upon an analysis of complex tax laws and subjective projections of future taxable income. As a result, performing audit procedures to evaluate the reasonableness of management's projections and the timing for recognition of the valuation allowance, required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of effort, including the need to involve our income tax specialists.



How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

Our audit procedures related to estimated future taxable income and the determination of whether it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be realized included the following, among others:

We tested the effectiveness of controls over the valuation allowance assessment for income taxes, including management’s controls over the identification and evaluation of changes in global tax laws, estimates of future taxable income, and the determination of whether it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be realized.

With the assistance of our income tax specialists:

We identified and evaluated changes in global tax laws and the potential impact on the Company’s ability to utilize the deferred tax asset.

We considered management’s intent and ability to execute prudent and feasible tax planning actions based upon their underlying economic substance and local tax laws.

We evaluated management’s ability to accurately estimate future taxable income by comparing actual results to management’s historical estimates.

We considered whether management’s determination that a valuation allowance was required in the current year was indicative of management bias by evaluating the Company’s historical conclusions reached with respect to the realizability of its deferred tax assets in other jurisdictions with unlimited carryforward periods.

Other Accrued Liabilities - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities - Harris County San Jacinto Environmental Proceeding - Refer to Note 14 to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The Company has obligations related to certain environmental matters. Such obligations are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the loss can be reasonably estimated.

The Company has been named a potentially responsible party (“PRP”) at the Harris County San Jacinto Waste Pits Superfund Site (“San Jacinto”). The Company has been participating in the remediation activities at the site with other PRPs.

During 2017, the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) issued a Record of Decision (“ROD”) which included a waste removal and relocation remedy for the site, including an estimate of costs to remediate. Due to uncertainty about the technological feasibility of executing the remedy prescribed within the ROD, the Company believes additional losses for this site are not estimable.

We identified the San Jacinto environmental proceeding as a critical audit matter because of the uncertainty associated with executing the remedy prescribed in the ROD. As a result, auditing management's determination that additional losses for the site are not reasonably estimable required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of effort, including the need to involve our environmental specialists.

How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

Our audit procedures related to management’s determination and the Company’s disclosure that additional losses are not estimable related to San Jacinto included the following, among others:

We tested the effectiveness of controls related to San Jacinto, including management’s controls over evaluating whether the liability was reflective of current circumstances, included necessary costs (i.e. probable and estimable), and the related disclosure in the financial statements was accurate and complete.

With assistance from our environmental specialists:

We inquired of the Company’s environmental specialists, including inquiries of both internal and external legal counsel, to understand the status of progress under the 2018 Administrative Order on Consent (“AOC”) as well as the status of ongoing discussions with the EPA and the other regulatory agencies involved.

We inspected correspondence between the PRPs and the EPA to gain an understanding of progress and developments related to the site based on the timeline and requirements outlined in the AOC, including consideration of contradictory evidence or indications of Management bias.

We assessed management’s assertion regarding the technical feasibility of compliance with the ROD in evaluating the recorded liability.



We evaluated the sufficiency of the Company’s disclosures related to additional losses not being reasonably estimable.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Memphis, Tennessee
February 19, 2020

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2002.


To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of International Paper Company:
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of International Paper Company and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019, of the Company, and our report dated February 19, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.

As described in the Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management excluded from its assessment the internal control over financial reporting the acquisitions of packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar), France (Torigni and Cabourg), and Spain (Tavernes de la Valldigna and Montblanc) completed during 2019. The acquired businesses constitute 0.4% of net sales and 0.6% of total assets of the consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019. Accordingly, our audit did not include the internal control over financial reporting at these acquired businesses.


Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.





Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Memphis, Tennessee
February 19, 2020

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
In millions, except per share amounts, for the years ended December 31201920182017
NET SALES$22,376
$23,306
$21,743
COSTS AND EXPENSES   
Cost of products sold15,268
15,555
14,802
Selling and administrative expenses1,647
1,723
1,621
Depreciation, amortization and cost of timber harvested1,306
1,328
1,343
Distribution expenses1,560
1,567
1,434
Taxes other than payroll and income taxes170
171
169
Restructuring and other charges, net57
29
67
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses205
122
9
Antitrust fines and settlements32

354
Net bargain purchase gain on acquisition of business

(6)
Interest expense, net491
536
572
Non-operating pension expense36
494
530
EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND EQUITY EARNINGS (LOSSES)1,604
1,781
848
Income tax provision (benefit)634
445
(1,085)
Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes250
336
177
EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS1,220
1,672
2,110
Discontinued operations, net of taxes
345
34
NET EARNINGS (LOSS)1,220
2,017
2,144
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(5)5

NET EARNINGS (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER
COMPANY
$1,225
$2,012
$2,144
BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS   
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$3.10
$4.07
$5.11
Discontinued operations, net of taxes
0.84
0.08
Net earnings (loss)$3.10
$4.91
$5.19
DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS   
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$3.07
$4.02
$5.05
Discontinued operations, net of taxes
0.83
0.08
Net earnings (loss)$3.07
$4.85
$5.13
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
In millions for the years ended December 31201920182017
NET EARNINGS (LOSS)$1,220
$2,017
$2,144
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), NET OF TAX   
Amortization of pension and postretirement prior service costs and net loss:   
U.S. plans (less tax of $54, $196 and $280)163
588
486
   Non-U.S. plans (less tax of $0, $0 and $0)1
1

Pension and postretirement liability adjustments:   
U.S. plans (less tax of $7, $6 and $69)22
18
56
Non-U.S. plans (less tax of $3, $1 and $1)(20)4
3
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment (less tax of $1, $1 and $0)116
(473)177
Net gains/losses on cash flow hedging derivatives:   
Net gains (losses) arising during the period (less tax of $2, $5 and $4)4
(10)15
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net earnings (less tax of $2, $1 and $2)4
2
(7)
TOTAL OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), NET OF TAX290
130
730
Comprehensive Income (Loss)1,510
2,147
2,874
Net (Earnings) Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests5
(5)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
3
(1)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY$1,515
$2,145
$2,873

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.



CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
In millions, except per share amounts, at December 3120192018
ASSETS  
Current Assets  
Cash and temporary investments$511
$589
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances of $73 in 2019 and $81 in 2018)3,280
3,521
Contract assets393
395
Inventories2,208
2,241
Other current assets247
250
Total Current Assets6,639
6,996
Plants, Properties and Equipment, net13,004
13,067
Forestlands391
402
Investments1,721
1,648
Financial Assets of Variable Interest Entities (Note 15)7,088
7,070
Goodwill3,347
3,374
Right of Use Assets434

Deferred Charges and Other Assets847
1,019
TOTAL ASSETS$33,471
$33,576
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY  
Current Liabilities  
Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt$168
$639
Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities (Note 15)4,220

Accounts payable2,423
2,413
Accrued payroll and benefits466
535
Other current liabilities1,369
1,107
Total Current Liabilities8,646
4,694
Long-Term Debt9,597
10,015
Long-Term Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Variable Interest Entities (Note 15)2,085
6,298
Deferred Income Taxes2,633
2,600
Pension Benefit Obligation1,578
1,762
Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Obligation270
264
Long-Term Lease Obligations304

Other Liabilities640
560
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Note 14)


Equity  
Common stock $1 par value, 2019 - 448.9 shares and 2018 - 448.9 shares449
449
Paid-in capital6,297
6,280
Retained earnings8,408
7,465
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(4,739)(4,500)
 10,415
9,694
Less: Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 2019 – 56.800 shares and 2018 – 48.310 shares2,702
2,332
Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity7,713
7,362
Noncontrolling interests5
21
Total Equity7,718
7,383
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$33,471
$33,576
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
In millions for the years ended December 31201920182017
OPERATING ACTIVITIES   
Net earnings (loss)$1,220
$2,017
$2,144
Depreciation, amortization, and cost of timber harvested1,306
1,328
1,423
Deferred income tax provision (benefit), net212
133
(1,113)
Restructuring and other charges, net57
29
67
Pension plan contributions

(1,250)
Periodic pension expense, net93
632
717
Net gain on transfer of North American Consumer Packaging business
(488)
Net bargain purchase gain on acquisition of business

(6)
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses205
122
9
Antitrust fines32


Equity method dividends received273
153
133
Equity (earnings) losses, net(250)(336)(177)
Other, net120
75
212
Changes in current assets and liabilities   
Accounts and notes receivable246
(342)(370)
Contract assets2
(32)
Inventories(1)(236)(87)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities139
151
114
Interest payable(19)(8)1
Other(25)28
(60)
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) OPERATING ACTIVITIES3,610
3,226
1,757
INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES   
Invested in capital projects(1,276)(1,572)(1,391)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired(103)(8)(45)
Net settlement on transfer of North American Consumer Packaging business
(40)
Proceeds from divestitures, net of cash divested81

4
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets18
23
26
Other(20)28
15
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES(1,300)(1,569)(1,391)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES   
Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock tax withholding(535)(732)(47)
Issuance of debt534
490
1,907
Reduction of debt(1,507)(1,008)(1,424)
Change in book overdrafts(66)(1)26
Dividends paid(796)(789)(769)
Net debt tender premiums paid(18)(6)(84)
Other(1)
(8)
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) FINANCING ACTIVITIES(2,389)(2,046)(399)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash1
(40)18
Change in Cash and Temporary Investments(78)(429)(15)
Cash and Temporary Investments   
Beginning of the period589
1,018
1,033
End of the period$511
$589
$1,018
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

In millionsCommon Stock IssuedPaid-in CapitalRetained EarningsAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Common Stock Held In Treasury, At CostTotal International Paper Shareholders’ EquityNoncontrolling InterestsTotal Equity
BALANCE, JANUARY 1, 2017$449
$6,189
$4,818
$(5,362)$1,753
$4,341
$18
$4,359
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
42


(120)162

162
Repurchase of stock



47
(47)
(47)
Dividends ($1.863 per share)

(782)

(782)
(782)
Transactions of equity method investees
(25)


(25)
(25)
Comprehensive income (loss)

2,144
729

2,873
1
2,874
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2017449
6,206
6,180
(4,633)1,680
6,522
19
6,541
Adoption of ASC 606 revenue from contracts with customers

73


73

73
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
62


(80)142

142
Repurchase of stock



732
(732)
(732)
Dividends ($1.925 per share)

(800)

(800)
(800)
Transactions of equity method investees
12



12

12
Comprehensive income (loss)

2,012
133

2,145
2
2,147
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2018449
6,280
7,465
(4,500)2,332
7,362
21
7,383
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 reclassification of stranded tax effects resulting from Tax Reform

529
(529)



Issuance of stock for various plans, net
(18)

(165)147

147
Repurchase of stock



535
(535)
(535)
Dividends ($2.013 per share)

(811)

(811)
(811)
Transactions of equity method investees
35



35

35
Divestiture of noncontrolling interests





(11)(11)
Comprehensive income (loss)

1,225
290

1,515
(5)1,510
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2019$449
$6,297
$8,408
$(4,739)$2,702
$7,713
$5
$7,718
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.



NATURE OF BUSINESS

International Paper (the Company) is a global paper and packaging company with primary markets and manufacturing operations in North America, Europe, Latin America, North Africa and Russia. Substantially all of our businesses have experienced, and are likely to continue to experience, cycles relating to available industry capacity and general economic conditions.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States that require the use of management’s estimates. Actual results could differ from management’s estimates.

On January 1, 2018, the Company completed the previously announced transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business and received a 20.5% ownership interest in a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company that holds the assets of the combined business. See Note 8 for further details.

CONSOLIDATION

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of International Paper and subsidiaries for which we have a controlling financial interest, including variable interest entities for which we are the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated.

EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS

The equity method of accounting is applied for investments when the Company has significant influence over the investee’s operations, or when the investee is structured with separate capital accounts and our investment is considered more than minor. Our material equity method investments are described in Note 11

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

The Company allocates the total consideration of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair value as of the business combination date. In developing estimates of fair values for long-lived assets, including identifiable intangible assets, the Company utilizes a variety of inputs including forecasted cash flows, anticipated growth rates, discount rates, estimated replacement costs and depreciation and obsolescence factors. Determining the fair value for
specifically identified intangible assets such as customer lists and developed technology involves judgment. We may refine our estimates and make adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed over a measurement period, not to exceed one year. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or the final determination of the values of asset acquired and liabilities assumed, whichever comes first, any subsequent adjustments are charged to the consolidated statement of earnings. Subsequent actual results of the underlying business activity supporting the specifically identified intangible assets could change, requiring us to record impairment charges or adjust their economic lives in future periods. See Note 7 for further details.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

A discontinued operation may include a component or a group of components of the Company's operations. A disposal of a component or a group of components is reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on the Company's operations and financial results when the following occurs: (1) a component (or group of components) meets the criteria to be classified as held for sale; (2) the component or group of components is disposed of by sale; or (3) the component or group of components is disposed of other than by sale (for example, by abandonment or in a distribution to owners in a spinoff).For any component classified as held for sale or disposed of by sale or other than by sale, qualifying for presentation as a discontinued operation, the Company reports the results of operations of the discontinued operations (including any gain or loss recognized on the disposal or loss recognized on classification as held for sale of a discontinued operation), less applicable income taxes (benefit), as a separate component in the consolidated statement of operations for current and all prior periods presented. See Note 8 for further details.

RESTRUCTURING     LIABILITIES AND COSTS

For operations to be closed or restructured, a liability and related expense is recorded in the period when operations cease. For termination costs associated with employees covered by a written or substantive plan, a liability is recorded when it is probable that employees will be entitled to benefits and the amount can be reasonably estimated. For termination costs associated with employees not covered by a written and broadly communicated policy covering involuntary termination benefits (severance plan), a liability is recorded for costs to terminate employees (one-time termination benefits) when the termination plan has been approved and committed to by management, the employees to be terminated have been identified, the termination plan benefit terms are communicated, the employees identified in the plan have been notified and actions required to complete the plan indicate that it is unlikely

that significant changes to the plan will be made or that the plan will be withdrawn. The timing and amount of an accrual is dependent upon the type of benefits granted, the timing of communication and other provisions that may be provided in the benefit plan. The accounting for each termination is evaluated individually. See Note 6 for further details.

REVENUE RECOGNITION

Generally, the Company recognizes revenue on a point-in-time basis when the customer takes title to the goods and assumes the risks and rewards for the goods. For customized goods where the Company has a legally enforceable right to payment for the goods, the Company recognizes revenue over time, which generally is, as the goods are produced.

The Company’s revenue is primarily derived from fixed consideration; however, we do have contract terms that give rise to variable consideration, primarily cash discounts and volume rebates. International Paper offers early payment discounts to customers across the Company’s businesses. The Company estimates the expected cash discounts and other customer refunds based on the historical experience across the Company’s portfolio of customers to record reductions in revenue which is consistent with the most likely amount method outlined in ASC 606. Management has concluded that this method is the best estimate of the consideration the Company will be entitled to from its customers.

The Company has elected to present all sales taxes on a net basis, account for shipping and handling activities as fulfillment activities, recognize the incremental costs of obtaining a contract as expense when incurred if the amortization period of the asset the Company would recognize is one year or less, and not record interest income or interest expense when the difference in timing of control or transfer and customer payment is one year or less. See Note 3 for further details.

TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS

Temporary investments with an original maturity of three months or less and money market funds with greater than three month maturities but with the right to redeem without notice are treated as cash equivalents and are stated at cost, which approximates market value. See Note 9 for further details.

INVENTORIES

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market value and include all costs directly associated with manufacturing products: materials, labor and manufacturing overhead. In the United States, costs of raw materials and finished pulp and paper products, are generally determined using the last-in, first-out method.
Other inventories are valued using the first-in, first-out or average cost methods. See Note 9 for further details.

LEASED ASSETS

Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at the commencement date of the lease based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. The Company's leases may include options to extend or terminate the lease. These options to extend are included in the lease term when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Some leases have variable payments, however, because they are not based on an index or rate, they are not included in the ROU assets and liabilities. Variable payments for real estate leases primarily related to common area maintenance, insurance, taxes and utilities. Variable payments for equipment, vehicles, and leases within supply agreements primarily related to usage, repairs and maintenance. As the implicit rate is not readily determinable for most of the Company's leases, the Company applies a portfolio approach using an estimated incremental borrowing rate to determine the initial present value of lease payments over the lease terms on a collateralized basis over a similar term, which is based on market and company specific information. We use the unsecured borrowing rate and risk-adjust that rate to approximate a collateralized rate, and apply the rate based on the currency of the lease, which is updated on a quarterly basis for measurement of new lease liabilities. Leases having a lease term of twelve months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet and the related lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. In addition, the Company has applied the practical expedient to account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component for all of the Company's leases. See Note 10 for further details.

PLANTS, PROPERTIES AND EQUIPMENT

Plants, properties and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for betterments are capitalized, whereas normal repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. The units-of-production method of depreciation is used for pulp and paper mills, and the straight-line method is used for other plants and equipment. See Note 9 for further details.

GOODWILL

Annual evaluation for possible goodwill impairment is performed as of the beginning of the fourth quarter of each year, with additional interim evaluation performed when management believes that it is more likely than not, that events or circumstances have occurred that would result in the impairment of a reporting unit’s goodwill.

The Company has the option to evaluate goodwill for impairment by first performing a qualitative assessment of events and circumstances to determine whether it is

more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, the Company determines that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amounts, then the quantitative goodwill impairment test is not required to be performed. If the Company determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, or if the Company does not elect the option to perform an initial qualitative assessment, the Company is required to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. In performing this evaluation, the Company estimates the fair value of its reporting unit using a probability-weighted approach based on discounted future cash flows, market multiples and transaction multiples. Key assumptions in the quantitative goodwill impairment test considered by management include the discount rate, long-term growth rate, tax rate, inflation rate, and business forecast. For reporting units whose carrying amount is in excess of their estimated fair value, the reporting unit will record an impairment charge by the amount that the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit's fair value, not to exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. See Note 12 for further discussion.

IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS

Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that indicate that the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. A recoverability test is performed based on undiscounted cash flows, requiring judgments as to whether assets are held and used or held for sale, the weighting of operational alternatives being considered by management and estimates of the amount and timing of expected future cash flows from the use of the long-lived assets generated by their use. Impaired assets are recorded at their estimated fair value. See Note 8 for further discussion.

INCOME TAXES

International Paper uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes whereby deferred income taxes are recorded for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are remeasured to reflect new tax rates in the periods rate changes are enacted.

International Paper records its worldwide tax provision based on the respective tax rules and regulations for the jurisdictions in which it operates. Where the Company believes that a tax position is supportable for income tax purposes, the item is included in its income tax returns.
Where treatment of a position is uncertain, liabilities are recorded based upon the Company’s evaluation of the “more likely than not” outcome considering the technical merits of the position based on specific tax regulations and the facts of each matter. Changes to recorded liabilities are made only when an identifiable event occurs that changes the likely outcome, such as settlement with the relevant tax authority, the expiration of statutes of limitation for the subject tax year, a change in tax laws, or a recent court case that addresses the matter.

While the judgments and estimates made by the Company are based on management’s evaluation of the technical merits of a matter, assisted as necessary by consultation with outside consultants, historical experience and other assumptions that management believes are appropriate and reasonable under current circumstances, actual resolution of these matters may differ from recorded estimated amounts, resulting in adjustments that could materially affect future financial statements. See Note 13 for further details.

International Paper uses the flow-through method to account for investment tax credits earned on eligible open-loop biomass facilities and combined heat and power system expenditures. Under this method, the investment tax credits are recognized as a reduction to income tax expense in the year they are earned rather than a reduction in the asset basis.

ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION COSTS

Costs associated with environmental remediation obligations are accrued when such costs are probable and reasonably estimable. Such accruals are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of future expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are discounted to their present value when the amount and timing of expected cash payments are reliably determinable. See Note 14 for further details.

TRANSLATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Balance sheets of international operations are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates, while statements of operations are translated at average rates. Adjustments resulting from financial statement translations are included as cumulative translation adjustments in Accumulated other comprehensive loss.


Other than as described below, no new accounting pronouncement issued or effective during the fiscal year has had or is expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.





RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Intangibles

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment." This guidance eliminates the requirement to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill under Step 2 of the previous goodwill impairment test approach to measure a goodwill impairment charge. Instead, entities will record an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit's carrying amount over its fair value. This guidance should be applied prospectively. The Company early adopted the provision of this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2019 in conjunction with our annual evaluation for possible goodwill impairment which resulted in the recognition of a goodwill impairment charge of $52 million for the Global Cellulose Fibers reporting unit. See Note 12.

Pension Plan Disclosures

In July 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-09, "Codification Improvements," which included amendments to Subtopic 962-325. This disclosure guidance pertains to the presentation of certain types of investments. The Company adopted the provisions of this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2019 in conjunction with the preparation of our 2019 annual Form 10-K disclosures and presentation related to pension plan assets.

Leases
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842): Leases." The Company adopted the provisions of this guidance effective January 1, 2019, using the modified retrospective optional transition method. Therefore, the standard was applied beginning January 1, 2019, and prior periods were not restated. The adoption of the standard did not result in a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of Retained earnings. The Company elected the package of practical expedients and implemented internal controls and system functionality to enable the preparation of financial information upon adoption.
The adoption of the new standard resulted in the recognition of a right of use asset and short-term and long-term liabilities recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheet related to operating leases. Accounting for finance leases remained substantially unchanged. In addition, the adoption of the standard did not have a material impact on the Company's results of operations or cash flows. See Note 10.

Comprehensive Income

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, "Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income." This guidance provided entities the option to reclassify stranded tax effects caused by the newly-enacted U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings. As a result, the Company adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2019, and recorded a net increase to opening Retained earnings and a decrease to opening Accumulated other comprehensive income of $529 million, due to the cumulative impact of adopting the new guidance.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS NOT YET ADOPTED

Income TaxesFinancial Statements

The management of International Paper Company is responsible for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements in this annual report. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America considered appropriate in the circumstances to present fairly the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows on a consistent basis. Management has also prepared the other information in this annual report and is responsible for its accuracy and consistency with the consolidated financial statements.

As can be expected in a complex and dynamic business environment, some financial statement amounts are based on estimates and judgments. Even though estimates and judgments are used, measures have been taken to provide reasonable assurance of the integrity and reliability of the financial information contained in this annual report. We have formed a Disclosure Committee to oversee this process.

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been audited by the independent registered public accounting firm Deloitte & Touche LLP. During its audits, Deloitte & Touche LLP was given unrestricted access to all financial records and related data, including minutes of all meetings of stockholders and the board of directors and all committees of the board. Management believes that all representations made to the independent auditors during their audits were valid and appropriate.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The management of International Paper Company is also responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules (13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Internal control over financial reporting is the process designed by, or under the supervision of, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, and effected by our Board of Directors, management and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes. All internal control systems have inherent limitations, including the possibility of circumvention and overriding of controls, and therefore can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the designed control objectives. The Company’s internal control system is supported by written policies and procedures, contains self-
monitoring mechanisms, and is audited by the internal audit function. Appropriate actions are taken by management to correct deficiencies as they are identified. Our procedures for financial reporting include the active involvement of senior management, our Audit and Finance Committee and our staff of highly qualified financial and legal professionals.

The Company has assessed the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019. In making this assessment, it used the criteria described in “Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013)” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this assessment, management believes that, as of December 31, 2019, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective.

The Company completed the acquisitions of four packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar), France (Torigni and Cabourg), and Spain (Tavernes de la Valldigna and Montblanc) over the course of 2019. Due to the timing of these acquisitions, we have excluded these businesses from our evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. For the period ended December 31, 2019, sales and assets for these businesses represented approximately 0.4% of net sales and 0.6% of total assets.
The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued its report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. The report appears on pages 41 and 42.
Internal Control Environment And Board Of Directors Oversight

Our internal control environment includes an enterprise-wide attitude of integrity and control consciousness that establishes a positive “tone at the top.” This is exemplified by our ethics program that includes long-standing principles and policies on ethical business conduct that require employees to maintain the highest ethical and legal standards in the conduct of International Paper business, which have been distributed to all employees; a toll-free telephone helpline whereby any employee may anonymously report suspected violations of law or International Paper’s policy; and an office of ethics and business practice. The internal control system further includes careful selection and training of supervisory and management personnel, appropriate delegation of authority and division of responsibility, dissemination of accounting and business policies throughout International Paper, and an extensive program of internal audits with management follow-up.


International Paper records
The Board of Directors, assisted by the Audit and Finance Committee (Committee), monitors the integrity of the Company’s financial statements and financial reporting procedures, the performance of the Company’s internal audit function and independent auditors, and other matters set forth in its global tax provision based oncharter. The Committee, which consists of independent directors, meets regularly with representatives of management, and with the respective taxindependent auditors and the Internal Auditor, with and without management representatives in attendance, to review their activities. The Committee’s Charter takes into account the New York Stock Exchange rules relating to Audit Committees and the SEC rules and regulations promulgated as a result of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Committee has reviewed and discussed the consolidated financial statements for the jurisdictionsyear ended December 31, 2019, including critical accounting policies and significant management judgments, with management and the independent auditors. The Committee’s report recommending the inclusion of such financial statements in which it operates. Wherethis Annual Report on Form 10-K will be set forth in our Proxy Statement.

ceosignature01a11.jpg


MARK S. SUTTON
CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
timnichollssignaturea01.jpg

TIMOTHY S. NICHOLLS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of International Paper Company:
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of International Paper Company and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company believes that a tax position is supportableas of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for income tax purposes, the item is included in its income
tax returns. Where treatment of a position is uncertain, liabilities are recorded based upon the Company’s evaluationeach of the “more likely than not” outcome considering technical meritsthree years in the period ended December 31, 2019, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the positionPublic Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 19, 2020, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis,
 
specificevidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Income Taxes - Valuation Allowances - Refer to Notes 1 and 13 to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The Company recognizes deferred income tax regulationsassets for deductible temporary differences and facts of each matter. Changes to recorded liabilities are only made when an identifiable event occurs that changes the likely outcome, such as settlement with the relevant tax authority, the expiration of statutes of limitation for the subject tax year, change in tax laws, or a recent court case that addresses the matter.
carryforwards. Valuation allowances are recordedestablished when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets whento the amounts expected to be realized based on estimates of future taxable income.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $203 million related to indefinite-lived non-US net operating loss carryforwards. Management’s determination that a valuation allowance was necessary in the current year was influenced by current year changes in global tax laws, which have adversely impacted the time period over which the Company could reasonably realize the deferred tax asset based on its current global structure and ability to execute prudent and feasible tax planning actions.

We identified the valuation allowance as a critical audit matter because it is dependent upon an analysis of complex tax laws and subjective projections of future taxable income. As a result, performing audit procedures to evaluate the reasonableness of management's projections and the timing for recognition of the valuation allowance, required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of effort, including the need to involve our income tax specialists.



How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

Our audit procedures related to estimated future taxable income and the determination of whether it is more likely than not that athe deferred tax benefitasset will be realized included the following, among others:

We tested the effectiveness of controls over the valuation allowance assessment for income taxes, including management’s controls over the identification and evaluation of changes in global tax laws, estimates of future taxable income, and the determination of whether it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be realized. Significant

With the assistance of our income tax specialists:

We identified and evaluated changes in global tax laws and the potential impact on the Company’s ability to utilize the deferred tax asset.

We considered management’s intent and ability to execute prudent and feasible tax planning actions based upon their underlying economic substance and local tax laws.

We evaluated management’s ability to accurately estimate future taxable income by comparing actual results to management’s historical estimates.

We considered whether management’s determination that a valuation allowance was required in the current year was indicative of management bias by evaluating the Company’s historical conclusions reached with respect to the realizability of its deferred tax assets in other jurisdictions with unlimited carryforward periods.

Other Accrued Liabilities - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities - Harris County San Jacinto Environmental Proceeding - Refer to Note 14 to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The Company has obligations related to certain environmental matters. Such obligations are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the loss can be reasonably estimated.

The Company has been named a potentially responsible party (“PRP”) at the Harris County San Jacinto Waste Pits Superfund Site (“San Jacinto”). The Company has been participating in the remediation activities at the site with other PRPs.

During 2017, the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) issued a Record of Decision (“ROD”) which included a waste removal and relocation remedy for the site, including an estimate of costs to remediate. Due to uncertainty about the technological feasibility of executing the remedy prescribed within the ROD, the Company believes additional losses for this site are not estimable.

We identified the San Jacinto environmental proceeding as a critical audit matter because of the uncertainty associated with executing the remedy prescribed in the ROD. As a result, auditing management's determination that additional losses for the site are not reasonably estimable required a high degree of auditor judgment is requiredand an increased extent of effort, including the need to involve our environmental specialists.

How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

Our audit procedures related to management’s determination and the Company’s disclosure that additional losses are not estimable related to San Jacinto included the following, among others:

We tested the effectiveness of controls related to San Jacinto, including management’s controls over evaluating whether the liability was reflective of current circumstances, included necessary costs (i.e. probable and estimable), and the related disclosure in the financial statements was accurate and complete.

With assistance from our environmental specialists:

We inquired of the Company’s environmental specialists, including inquiries of both internal and external legal counsel, to understand the status of progress under the 2018 Administrative Order on Consent (“AOC”) as well as the status of ongoing discussions with the EPA and the other regulatory agencies involved.

We inspected correspondence between the PRPs and the EPA to gain an understanding of progress and developments related to the site based on the timeline and requirements outlined in the AOC, including consideration of contradictory evidence or indications of Management bias.

We assessed management’s assertion regarding the technical feasibility of compliance with the ROD in evaluating the need forrecorded liability.



We evaluated the sufficiency of the Company’s disclosures related to additional losses not being reasonably estimable.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Memphis, Tennessee
February 19, 2020

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2002.


To the Shareholders and magnitudeBoard of appropriate valuation allowances against deferred tax assets. The realizationDirectors of these assets is dependent on generating future taxable income, as well as successful implementation of various tax planning strategies.
While International Paper believes that these judgmentsCompany:
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of International Paper Company and estimates are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances, actual resolutionsubsidiaries (the “Company”) as of these matters may differ from recorded estimated amounts.
The Company’s effective income tax rates, before equity earnings and discontinued operations, were (128)%, 24% and 37% for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The income tax benefitDecember 31, 2019, based on criteria established in 2017 was primarily drivenInternal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the recent U.S. tax legislation in December 2017 (see Note 10 Income Taxes on pages 57 through 60Committee of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data). These effective tax rates include the tax effects of certain special items that can significantly affect the effective income tax rate in a given year, but may not recur in subsequent years. Management believes that the effective tax rate computed after excluding these special items may provide a better estimateSponsoring Organizations of the rate that might be expectedTreadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in future years if no additional special items were to occur. However,all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as a result of recent U.S. tax legislation, which includes a reduction of the U.S. income tax rate from 35% to 21%, we will have a lower worldwide effective income tax rate going forward. Excluding these special items, the effective income tax rate for 2017 was 30% of pre-tax earnings compared with 32% in 2016 and 33% in 2015. We estimate that the 2018 effective income tax rate will be approximately 25-27%December 31, 2019, based on expected earnings and business conditions.criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
Business Combinations

The Company’s acquisitions of businesses are accounted forWe have also audited, in accordance with ASC 805, "Business Combinations"the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements as amendedof and for the year ended December 31, 2019, of the Company, and our report dated February 19, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.

As described in the Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management excluded from its assessment the internal control over financial reporting the acquisitions of packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar), France (Torigni and Cabourg), and Spain (Tavernes de la Valldigna and Montblanc) completed during 2019. The acquired businesses constitute 0.4% of net sales and 0.6% of total assets of the consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019. Accordingly, our audit did not include the internal control over financial reporting at these acquired businesses.


Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.





Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Memphis, Tennessee
February 19, 2020

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
In millions, except per share amounts, for the years ended December 31201920182017
NET SALES$22,376
$23,306
$21,743
COSTS AND EXPENSES   
Cost of products sold15,268
15,555
14,802
Selling and administrative expenses1,647
1,723
1,621
Depreciation, amortization and cost of timber harvested1,306
1,328
1,343
Distribution expenses1,560
1,567
1,434
Taxes other than payroll and income taxes170
171
169
Restructuring and other charges, net57
29
67
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses205
122
9
Antitrust fines and settlements32

354
Net bargain purchase gain on acquisition of business

(6)
Interest expense, net491
536
572
Non-operating pension expense36
494
530
EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND EQUITY EARNINGS (LOSSES)1,604
1,781
848
Income tax provision (benefit)634
445
(1,085)
Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes250
336
177
EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS1,220
1,672
2,110
Discontinued operations, net of taxes
345
34
NET EARNINGS (LOSS)1,220
2,017
2,144
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests(5)5

NET EARNINGS (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER
COMPANY
$1,225
$2,012
$2,144
BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS   
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$3.10
$4.07
$5.11
Discontinued operations, net of taxes
0.84
0.08
Net earnings (loss)$3.10
$4.91
$5.19
DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS   
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$3.07
$4.02
$5.05
Discontinued operations, net of taxes
0.83
0.08
Net earnings (loss)$3.07
$4.85
$5.13
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
In millions for the years ended December 31201920182017
NET EARNINGS (LOSS)$1,220
$2,017
$2,144
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), NET OF TAX   
Amortization of pension and postretirement prior service costs and net loss:   
U.S. plans (less tax of $54, $196 and $280)163
588
486
   Non-U.S. plans (less tax of $0, $0 and $0)1
1

Pension and postretirement liability adjustments:   
U.S. plans (less tax of $7, $6 and $69)22
18
56
Non-U.S. plans (less tax of $3, $1 and $1)(20)4
3
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment (less tax of $1, $1 and $0)116
(473)177
Net gains/losses on cash flow hedging derivatives:   
Net gains (losses) arising during the period (less tax of $2, $5 and $4)4
(10)15
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net earnings (less tax of $2, $1 and $2)4
2
(7)
TOTAL OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), NET OF TAX290
130
730
Comprehensive Income (Loss)1,510
2,147
2,874
Net (Earnings) Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests5
(5)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
3
(1)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY$1,515
$2,145
$2,873

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.



CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
In millions, except per share amounts, at December 3120192018
ASSETS  
Current Assets  
Cash and temporary investments$511
$589
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances of $73 in 2019 and $81 in 2018)3,280
3,521
Contract assets393
395
Inventories2,208
2,241
Other current assets247
250
Total Current Assets6,639
6,996
Plants, Properties and Equipment, net13,004
13,067
Forestlands391
402
Investments1,721
1,648
Financial Assets of Variable Interest Entities (Note 15)7,088
7,070
Goodwill3,347
3,374
Right of Use Assets434

Deferred Charges and Other Assets847
1,019
TOTAL ASSETS$33,471
$33,576
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY  
Current Liabilities  
Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt$168
$639
Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities (Note 15)4,220

Accounts payable2,423
2,413
Accrued payroll and benefits466
535
Other current liabilities1,369
1,107
Total Current Liabilities8,646
4,694
Long-Term Debt9,597
10,015
Long-Term Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Variable Interest Entities (Note 15)2,085
6,298
Deferred Income Taxes2,633
2,600
Pension Benefit Obligation1,578
1,762
Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Obligation270
264
Long-Term Lease Obligations304

Other Liabilities640
560
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Note 14)


Equity  
Common stock $1 par value, 2019 - 448.9 shares and 2018 - 448.9 shares449
449
Paid-in capital6,297
6,280
Retained earnings8,408
7,465
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(4,739)(4,500)
 10,415
9,694
Less: Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 2019 – 56.800 shares and 2018 – 48.310 shares2,702
2,332
Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity7,713
7,362
Noncontrolling interests5
21
Total Equity7,718
7,383
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$33,471
$33,576
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
In millions for the years ended December 31201920182017
OPERATING ACTIVITIES   
Net earnings (loss)$1,220
$2,017
$2,144
Depreciation, amortization, and cost of timber harvested1,306
1,328
1,423
Deferred income tax provision (benefit), net212
133
(1,113)
Restructuring and other charges, net57
29
67
Pension plan contributions

(1,250)
Periodic pension expense, net93
632
717
Net gain on transfer of North American Consumer Packaging business
(488)
Net bargain purchase gain on acquisition of business

(6)
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses205
122
9
Antitrust fines32


Equity method dividends received273
153
133
Equity (earnings) losses, net(250)(336)(177)
Other, net120
75
212
Changes in current assets and liabilities   
Accounts and notes receivable246
(342)(370)
Contract assets2
(32)
Inventories(1)(236)(87)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities139
151
114
Interest payable(19)(8)1
Other(25)28
(60)
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) OPERATING ACTIVITIES3,610
3,226
1,757
INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES   
Invested in capital projects(1,276)(1,572)(1,391)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired(103)(8)(45)
Net settlement on transfer of North American Consumer Packaging business
(40)
Proceeds from divestitures, net of cash divested81

4
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets18
23
26
Other(20)28
15
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES(1,300)(1,569)(1,391)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES   
Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock tax withholding(535)(732)(47)
Issuance of debt534
490
1,907
Reduction of debt(1,507)(1,008)(1,424)
Change in book overdrafts(66)(1)26
Dividends paid(796)(789)(769)
Net debt tender premiums paid(18)(6)(84)
Other(1)
(8)
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) FINANCING ACTIVITIES(2,389)(2,046)(399)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash1
(40)18
Change in Cash and Temporary Investments(78)(429)(15)
Cash and Temporary Investments   
Beginning of the period589
1,018
1,033
End of the period$511
$589
$1,018
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

In millionsCommon Stock IssuedPaid-in CapitalRetained EarningsAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Common Stock Held In Treasury, At CostTotal International Paper Shareholders’ EquityNoncontrolling InterestsTotal Equity
BALANCE, JANUARY 1, 2017$449
$6,189
$4,818
$(5,362)$1,753
$4,341
$18
$4,359
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
42


(120)162

162
Repurchase of stock



47
(47)
(47)
Dividends ($1.863 per share)

(782)

(782)
(782)
Transactions of equity method investees
(25)


(25)
(25)
Comprehensive income (loss)

2,144
729

2,873
1
2,874
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2017449
6,206
6,180
(4,633)1,680
6,522
19
6,541
Adoption of ASC 606 revenue from contracts with customers

73


73

73
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
62


(80)142

142
Repurchase of stock



732
(732)
(732)
Dividends ($1.925 per share)

(800)

(800)
(800)
Transactions of equity method investees
12



12

12
Comprehensive income (loss)

2,012
133

2,145
2
2,147
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2018449
6,280
7,465
(4,500)2,332
7,362
21
7,383
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 reclassification of stranded tax effects resulting from Tax Reform

529
(529)



Issuance of stock for various plans, net
(18)

(165)147

147
Repurchase of stock



535
(535)
(535)
Dividends ($2.013 per share)

(811)

(811)
(811)
Transactions of equity method investees
35



35

35
Divestiture of noncontrolling interests





(11)(11)
Comprehensive income (loss)

1,225
290

1,515
(5)1,510
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2019$449
$6,297
$8,408
$(4,739)$2,702
$7,713
$5
$7,718
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.



NATURE OF BUSINESS

International Paper (the Company) is a global paper and packaging company with primary markets and manufacturing operations in North America, Europe, Latin America, North Africa and Russia. Substantially all of our businesses have experienced, and are likely to continue to experience, cycles relating to available industry capacity and general economic conditions.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States that require the use of management’s estimates. Actual results could differ from management’s estimates.

On January 1, 2018, the Company completed the previously announced transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business and received a 20.5% ownership interest in a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company that holds the assets of the combined business. See Note 8 for further details.

CONSOLIDATION

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of International Paper and subsidiaries for which we have a controlling financial interest, including variable interest entities for which we are the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated.

EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS

The equity method of accounting is applied for investments when the Company has significant influence over the investee’s operations, or when the investee is structured with separate capital accounts and our investment is considered more than minor. Our material equity method investments are described in Note 11We allocate

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

The Company allocates the total consideration of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair value as of the business combination date. In developing estimates of fair values for long-lived assets, including identifiable intangible assets, the Company utilizes a variety of inputs including forecasted cash flows, anticipated growth rates, discount rates, estimated replacement costs and depreciation and obsolescence factors. Determining the fair value for
specifically identified intangible assets such

34

Table of Contents

as customer lists and developed technology involves judgment. We may refine our estimates and make adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed over a measurement period, not to exceed one year. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or the final determination of the values of assetsasset acquired and liabilities assumed, whichever comes first, any subsequent adjustments are charged to the consolidated statementsstatement of earnings. Subsequent actual results of the underlying business activity supporting the specifically identified intangible assets could change, requiring us to record impairment charges or adjust their economic lives in future periods. See Note 7 for further details.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

A discontinued operation may include a component or a group of components of the Company's operations. A disposal of a component or a group of components is reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on the Company's operations and financial results when the following occurs: (1) a component (or group of components) meets the criteria to be classified as held for sale; (2) the component or group of components is disposed of by sale; or (3) the component or group of components is disposed of other than by sale (for example, by abandonment or in a distribution to owners in a spinoff).For any component classified as held for sale or disposed of by sale or other than by sale, qualifying for presentation as a discontinued operation, the Company reports the results of operations of the discontinued operations (including any gain or loss recognized on the disposal or loss recognized on classification as held for sale of a discontinued operation), less applicable income taxes (benefit), as a separate component in the consolidated statement of operations for current and all prior periods presented. See Note 8 for further details.

RESTRUCTURING     LIABILITIES AND COSTS

For operations to be closed or restructured, a liability and related expense is recorded in the period when operations cease. For termination costs associated with employees covered by a written or substantive plan, a liability is recorded when it is probable that employees will be entitled to benefits and the amount can be reasonably estimated. For termination costs associated with employees not covered by a written and broadly communicated policy covering involuntary termination benefits (severance plan), a liability is recorded for costs to terminate employees (one-time termination benefits) when the termination plan has been approved and committed to by management, the employees to be terminated have been identified, the termination plan benefit terms are communicated, the employees identified in the plan have been notified and actions required to complete the plan indicate that it is unlikely

that significant changes to the plan will be made or that the plan will be withdrawn. The timing and amount of an accrual is dependent upon the type of benefits granted, the timing of communication and other provisions that may be provided in the benefit plan. The accounting for each termination is evaluated individually. See RECENT ACCOUNTING DEVELOPMENTSNote 6 for further details.
REVENUE RECOGNITION

Generally, the Company recognizes revenue on pages 48 through 49 of Item 8. Financial Statementsa point-in-time basis when the customer takes title to the goods and Supplementary Dataassumes the risks and rewards for the goods. For customized goods where the Company has a discussion of new accounting pronouncements.legally enforceable right to payment for the goods, the Company recognizes revenue over time, which generally is, as the goods are produced.

Information concerningThe Company’s revenue is primarily derived from fixed consideration; however, we do have contract terms that give rise to variable consideration, primarily cash discounts and volume rebates. International Paper offers early payment discounts to customers across the Company’s environmentalbusinesses. The Company estimates the expected cash discounts and legal proceedings is set forth in Note 11 Commitments and Contingencies on pages 60 through 63 of Item  8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
While inflationary increases in certain input costs, such as energy, wood fiber and chemical costs, have an impactother customer refunds based on the historical experience across the Company’s operating results, changesportfolio of customers to record reductions in general inflation have had minimal impact on our operating resultsrevenue which is consistent with the most likely amount method outlined in eachASC 606. Management has concluded that this method is the best estimate of the last three years. Sales pricesconsideration the Company will be entitled to from its customers.

The Company has elected to present all sales taxes on a net basis, account for shipping and volumes are more strongly influenced by economic supply and demand factors in specific markets and by exchange rate fluctuations than by inflationary factors.
International Paper has operations inhandling activities as fulfillment activities, recognize the incremental costs of obtaining a number of countries. Its operations in those countries also export to, and compete with, imports from other regions. As such, currency movements can have a number of direct and indirect impacts oncontract as expense when incurred if the Company’s financial statements. Direct impacts include the translation of international operations’ local currency financial statements into U.S. dollars and the remeasurement impact associated with non-functional currency financial assets and liabilities. Indirect impacts include the change in competitiveness of imports into, and exports outamortization period of the United States (andasset the impact on local currency pricingCompany would recognize is one year or less, and not record interest income or interest expense when the difference in timing of products that are traded internationally). In general, a weaker U.S. dollarcontrol or transfer and stronger local currencycustomer payment is beneficial to International Paper. The currencies that have the most impact are the Euro, the Brazilian real, the Polish zloty and the Russian ruble.one year or less. See Note 3 for further details.


TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS

We use financial instruments, including fixed and variable rate debt, to finance operations, for capital spending programs and for general corporate purposes. Additionally, financial instruments, including various derivative contracts, are used to hedge exposures to interest rate, commodity and foreign currency risks. We do not use financial instruments for trading purposes. Information related to International Paper’s debt obligations is included in Note 13 Debt and LinesTemporary investments with an original maturity of Credit on pages 64 and 65 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. A discussion of derivatives and hedging activities is included in Note 14 Derivatives and Hedging Activities on pages 65 through 69 of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
The fair value of our debt and financial instruments varies due to changes in market interest and foreign currency rates and commodity prices since the inception of the related instruments. We assess this market risk utilizing a sensitivity analysis. The sensitivity analysis measures the potential loss in earnings, fair values and cash flows based on a hypothetical 10% change (increase and decrease) in interest and currency rates and commodity prices.
Interest Rate Risk
Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to short- and long-term debt obligations and investments in marketable securities. We invest in investment-grade securities of financial institutionsthree months or less and money market mutual funds with a minimum rating of AAAgreater than three month maturities but with the right to redeem without notice are treated as cash equivalents and limit exposure to any one issuer or fund. Our investments in marketable securities at December 31, 2017 and 2016 are stated at cost, which approximates market duevalue. See Note 9 for further details.

INVENTORIES

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market value and include all costs directly associated with manufacturing products: materials, labor and manufacturing overhead. In the United States, costs of raw materials and finished pulp and paper products, are generally determined using the last-in, first-out method.
Other inventories are valued using the first-in, first-out or average cost methods. See Note 9 for further details.

LEASED ASSETS

Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at the commencement date of the lease based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. The Company's leases may include options to their short-term nature. Our interestextend or terminate the lease. These options to extend are included in the lease term when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Some leases have variable payments, however, because they are not based on an index or rate, risk exposurethey are not included in the ROU assets and liabilities. Variable payments for real estate leases primarily related to these investments wascommon area maintenance, insurance, taxes and utilities. Variable payments for equipment, vehicles, and leases within supply agreements primarily related to usage, repairs and maintenance. As the implicit rate is not material.
We issue fixed and floatingreadily determinable for most of the Company's leases, the Company applies a portfolio approach using an estimated incremental borrowing rate debt into determine the initial present value of lease payments over the lease terms on a proportion that management deems appropriatecollateralized basis over a similar term, which is based on currentmarket and projected market conditions. Derivative instruments, suchcompany specific information. We use the unsecured borrowing rate and risk-adjust that rate to approximate a collateralized rate, and apply the rate based on the currency of the lease, which is updated on a quarterly basis for measurement of new lease liabilities. Leases having a lease term of twelve months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet and the related lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. In addition, the Company has applied the practical expedient to account for the lease and non-lease components as interest rate swaps, may bea single lease component for all of the Company's leases. See Note 10 for further details.

PLANTS, PROPERTIES AND EQUIPMENT

Plants, properties and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for betterments are capitalized, whereas normal repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. The units-of-production method of depreciation is used for pulp and paper mills, and the straight-line method is used for other plants and equipment. See Note 9 for further details.

GOODWILL

Annual evaluation for possible goodwill impairment is performed as of the beginning of the fourth quarter of each year, with additional interim evaluation performed when management believes that it is more likely than not, that events or circumstances have occurred that would result in the impairment of a reporting unit’s goodwill.

The Company has the option to execute this strategy. At December 31, 2017evaluate goodwill for impairment by first performing a qualitative assessment of events and 2016,circumstances to determine whether it is

more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the net liabilitytotality of financial instruments with exposure to interest rate risk was approximately $11.1 billion and $11.3 billion, respectively. The potential loss inevents or circumstances, the Company determines that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amounts, then the quantitative goodwill impairment test is not required to be performed. If the Company determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, or if the Company does not elect the option to perform an initial qualitative assessment, the Company is required to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. In performing this evaluation, the Company estimates the fair value of its reporting unit using a probability-weighted approach based on discounted future cash flows, market multiples and transaction multiples. Key assumptions in the quantitative goodwill impairment test considered by management include the discount rate, long-term growth rate, tax rate, inflation rate, and business forecast. For reporting units whose carrying amount is in excess of their estimated fair value, the reporting unit will record an impairment charge by the amount that the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit's fair value, not to exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. See Note 12 for further discussion.

IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS

Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that indicate that the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. A recoverability test is performed based on undiscounted cash flows, requiring judgments as to whether assets are held and used or held for sale, the weighting of operational alternatives being considered by management and estimates of the amount and timing of expected future cash flows from the use of the long-lived assets generated by their use. Impaired assets are recorded at their estimated fair value. See Note 8 for further discussion.

INCOME TAXES

International Paper uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes whereby deferred income taxes are recorded for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are remeasured to reflect new tax rates in the periods rate changes are enacted.

International Paper records its worldwide tax provision based on the respective tax rules and regulations for the jurisdictions in which it operates. Where the Company believes that a tax position is supportable for income tax purposes, the item is included in its income tax returns.
Where treatment of a position is uncertain, liabilities are recorded based upon the Company’s evaluation of the “more likely than not” outcome considering the technical merits of the position based on specific tax regulations and the facts of each matter. Changes to recorded liabilities are made only when an identifiable event occurs that changes the likely outcome, such as settlement with the relevant tax authority, the expiration of statutes of limitation for the subject tax year, a change in tax laws, or a recent court case that addresses the matter.

While the judgments and estimates made by the Company are based on management’s evaluation of the technical merits of a matter, assisted as necessary by consultation with outside consultants, historical experience and other assumptions that management believes are appropriate and reasonable under current circumstances, actual resolution of these matters may differ from recorded estimated amounts, resulting in adjustments that could materially affect future financial statements. See Note 13 for further details.

International Paper uses the flow-through method to account for investment tax credits earned on eligible open-loop biomass facilities and combined heat and power system expenditures. Under this method, the investment tax credits are recognized as a reduction to income tax expense in the year they are earned rather than a reduction in the asset basis.

ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION COSTS

Costs associated with environmental remediation obligations are accrued when such costs are probable and reasonably estimable. Such accruals are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of future expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are discounted to their present value when the amount and timing of expected cash payments are reliably determinable. See Note 14 for further details.

TRANSLATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Balance sheets of international operations are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates, while statements of operations are translated at average rates. Adjustments resulting from financial statement translations are included as cumulative translation adjustments in Accumulated other comprehensive loss.


Other than as described below, no new accounting pronouncement issued or effective during the fiscal year has had or is expected to have a 10% adverse shift in quoted interest rates would have been approximately $679 million and $623 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.material impact on the consolidated financial statements.





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RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS


Commodity Price RiskIntangibles
The objective of our commodity exposure management is
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment." This guidance eliminates the requirement to minimize volatility in earnings due to large fluctuations incalculate the price of commodities. Commodity swap or forward purchase contracts may be used to manage risks associated with market fluctuations in energy prices. The netimplied fair value of such outstanding energy hedge contract at December 31, 2017 and 2016 was approximatelygoodwill under Step 2 of the previous goodwill impairment test approach to measure a $8 million andgoodwill impairment charge. Instead, entities will record an impairment charge based on the excess of a $2 million liability, respectively.reporting unit's carrying amount over its fair value. This guidance should be applied prospectively. The potential loss in fair value resulting from a 10% adverse changeCompany early adopted the provision of this guidance in the underlying commodity prices wouldfourth quarter of 2019 in conjunction with our annual evaluation for possible goodwill impairment which resulted in the recognition of a goodwill impairment charge of $52 million for the Global Cellulose Fibers reporting unit. See Note 12.

Pension Plan Disclosures

In July 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-09, "Codification Improvements," which included amendments to Subtopic 962-325. This disclosure guidance pertains to the presentation of certain types of investments. The Company adopted the provisions of this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2019 in conjunction with the preparation of our 2019 annual Form 10-K disclosures and presentation related to pension plan assets.

Leases
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842): Leases." The Company adopted the provisions of this guidance effective January 1, 2019, using the modified retrospective optional transition method. Therefore, the standard was applied beginning January 1, 2019, and prior periods were not restated. The adoption of the standard did not result in a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of Retained earnings. The Company elected the package of practical expedients and implemented internal controls and system functionality to enable the preparation of financial information upon adoption.
The adoption of the new standard resulted in the recognition of a right of use asset and short-term and long-term liabilities recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheet related to operating leases. Accounting for finance leases remained substantially unchanged. In addition, the adoption of the standard did not have been approximately $1 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Foreign Currency Risk
International Paper transacts business in many currencies and is also subject to currency exchange rate risk through investments and businesses owned and operated in foreign countries. Our objective in managinga material impact on the associated foreign currency risks is to minimize the effectCompany's results of adverse exchange rate fluctuations on our after-taxoperations or cash flows. We address these risks on a limited basis by entering into cross-currency and interest rate swaps, or foreign exchange contracts. At December 31, 2017 and 2016, the net fair value of financial instruments with exposure to foreign currency risk was approximately a $10 million asset and a $1 million liability, respectively. The potential loss in fair value for such financial instruments from a 10% adverse change in quoted foreign currency exchange rates would have been approximately $29 million and $23 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.See Note 10.


 
See
In February 2018, the preceding discussionFASB issued ASU 2018-02, "Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income." This guidance provided entities the option to reclassify stranded tax effects caused by the newly-enacted U.S. Tax Cuts and Note 14 DerivativesJobs Act from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings. As a result, the Company adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2019, and Hedging Activities on pages 65 through 69recorded a net increase to opening Retained earnings and a decrease to opening Accumulated other comprehensive income of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
$529 million, due to the cumulative impact of adopting the new guidance.


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REPORT OF MANAGEMENT ON:

Financial Statements


The management of International Paper Company is responsible for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements in this annual report and for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting.report. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America considered appropriate in the circumstances to present fairly the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows on a consistent basis. Management has also prepared the other information in this annual report and is responsible for its accuracy and consistency with the consolidated financial statements.


As can be expected in a complex and dynamic business environment, some financial statement amounts are based on estimates and judgments. Even though estimates and judgments are used, measures have been taken to provide reasonable assurance of the integrity and reliability of the financial information contained in this annual report. We have formed a Disclosure Committee to oversee this process.


The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been audited by the independent registered public accounting firm Deloitte & Touche LLP. During its audits, Deloitte & Touche LLP was given unrestricted access to all financial records and related data, including minutes of all meetings of stockholders and the board of directors and all committees of the board. Management believes that all representations made to the independent auditors during their audits were valid and appropriate.


Internal Control Over Financial Reporting


The management of International Paper Company is also responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting.reporting (as defined in Rules (13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Internal control over financial reporting is the process designed by, or under the supervision of, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, and effected by our Board of Directors, management and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes. All internal control systems have inherent limitations, including the possibility of circumvention and overriding of controls, and therefore can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the designed control objectives. The Company’s internal control system is
supported by written policies and procedures, contains self-monitoringself-
monitoring mechanisms, and is audited by the internal audit function. Appropriate actions are taken by management to correct deficiencies as they are identified. Our procedures for financial reporting include the active involvement of senior management, our Audit and Finance Committee and our staff of highly qualified financial and legal professionals.


The Company has assessed the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 20172019. In making this assessment, it used the criteria described in “Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013)” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this assessment, management believes that, as of December 31, 20172019, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective.

The Company completed the acquisitions of four packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar), France (Torigni and Cabourg), and Spain (Tavernes de la Valldigna and Montblanc) over the course of 2019. Due to the timing of these acquisitions, we have excluded these businesses from our evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. For the period ended December 31, 2019, sales and assets for these businesses represented approximately 0.4% of net sales and 0.6% of total assets.
The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued its report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. The report appears on pages 3941 and 40.42.
Internal Control Environment And Board Of Directors Oversight


Our internal control environment includes an enterprise-wide attitude of integrity and control consciousness that establishes a positive “tone at the top.” This is exemplified by our ethics program that includes long-standing principles and policies on ethical business conduct that require employees to maintain the highest ethical and legal standards in the conduct of International Paper business, which have been distributed to all employees; a toll-free telephone helpline whereby any employee may anonymously report suspected violations of law or International Paper’s policy; and an office of ethics and business practice. The internal control system further includes careful selection and training of supervisory and management personnel, appropriate delegation of authority and division of responsibility, dissemination of accounting and business policies throughout International Paper, and an extensive program of internal audits with management follow-up.


The Board of Directors, assisted by the Audit and Finance Committee (Committee), monitors the integrity of the Company’s financial statements and financial reporting procedures, the performance of the Company’s internal audit function and independent auditors, and other matters set forth in its charter. The Committee, which consists of independent directors, meets regularly with representatives of management, and with the independent auditors and the Internal Auditor, with and without management representatives in attendance, to review their activities. The Committee’s Charter takes into account the New York Stock Exchange rules relating to Audit Committees and the SEC rules and regulations promulgated as a result of

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the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Committee has reviewed and discussed the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 20172019, including critical accounting policies and significant management judgments, with management and the independent auditors. The Committee’s report recommending the inclusion of such financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K will be set forth in our Proxy Statement.


ceosignature01a11.jpg




MARK S. SUTTON
CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
 
timnichollssignaturea01.jpg
GLENN R. LANDAU
TIMOTHY S. NICHOLLS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors and Shareholders of International Paper Company:
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of International Paper Company and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017,2019, and the related notes and the schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017,2019, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017,2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 22, 2018,19, 2020, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis,
evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Income Taxes - Valuation Allowances - Refer to Notes 1 and 13 to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The Company recognizes deferred income tax assets for deductible temporary differences and carryforwards. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized based on estimates of future taxable income.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $203 million related to indefinite-lived non-US net operating loss carryforwards. Management’s determination that a valuation allowance was necessary in the current year was influenced by current year changes in global tax laws, which have adversely impacted the time period over which the Company could reasonably realize the deferred tax asset based on its current global structure and ability to execute prudent and feasible tax planning actions.

We identified the valuation allowance as a critical audit matter because it is dependent upon an analysis of complex tax laws and subjective projections of future taxable income. As a result, performing audit procedures to evaluate the reasonableness of management's projections and the timing for recognition of the valuation allowance, required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of effort, including the need to involve our income tax specialists.



How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

Our audit procedures related to estimated future taxable income and the determination of whether it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be realized included the following, among others:

We tested the effectiveness of controls over the valuation allowance assessment for income taxes, including management’s controls over the identification and evaluation of changes in global tax laws, estimates of future taxable income, and the determination of whether it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be realized.

With the assistance of our income tax specialists:

We identified and evaluated changes in global tax laws and the potential impact on the Company’s ability to utilize the deferred tax asset.

We considered management’s intent and ability to execute prudent and feasible tax planning actions based upon their underlying economic substance and local tax laws.

We evaluated management’s ability to accurately estimate future taxable income by comparing actual results to management’s historical estimates.

We considered whether management’s determination that a valuation allowance was required in the current year was indicative of management bias by evaluating the Company’s historical conclusions reached with respect to the realizability of its deferred tax assets in other jurisdictions with unlimited carryforward periods.

Other Accrued Liabilities - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities - Harris County San Jacinto Environmental Proceeding - Refer to Note 14 to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The Company has obligations related to certain environmental matters. Such obligations are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the loss can be reasonably estimated.

The Company has been named a potentially responsible party (“PRP”) at the Harris County San Jacinto Waste Pits Superfund Site (“San Jacinto”). The Company has been participating in the remediation activities at the site with other PRPs.

During 2017, the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) issued a Record of Decision (“ROD”) which included a waste removal and relocation remedy for the site, including an estimate of costs to remediate. Due to uncertainty about the technological feasibility of executing the remedy prescribed within the ROD, the Company believes additional losses for this site are not estimable.

We identified the San Jacinto environmental proceeding as a critical audit matter because of the uncertainty associated with executing the remedy prescribed in the ROD. As a result, auditing management's determination that additional losses for the site are not reasonably estimable required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of effort, including the need to involve our environmental specialists.

How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

Our audit procedures related to management’s determination and the Company’s disclosure that additional losses are not estimable related to San Jacinto included the following, among others:

We tested the effectiveness of controls related to San Jacinto, including management’s controls over evaluating whether the liability was reflective of current circumstances, included necessary costs (i.e. probable and estimable), and the related disclosure in the financial statements was accurate and complete.

With assistance from our environmental specialists:

We inquired of the Company’s environmental specialists, including inquiries of both internal and external legal counsel, to understand the status of progress under the 2018 Administrative Order on Consent (“AOC”) as well as the status of ongoing discussions with the EPA and the other regulatory agencies involved.

We inspected correspondence between the PRPs and the EPA to gain an understanding of progress and developments related to the site based on the timeline and requirements outlined in the AOC, including consideration of contradictory evidence or indications of Management bias.

We assessed management’s assertion regarding the technical feasibility of compliance with the ROD in evaluating the recorded liability.



We evaluated the sufficiency of the Company’s disclosures related to additional losses not being reasonably estimable.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP


Memphis, Tennessee
February 22, 201819, 2020


We have served as the Company's auditor since 2002.




To the Shareholders and Board of Directors and Shareholders of International Paper Company:
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of International Paper Company and subsidiaries (the "Company"“Company”) as of December 31, 2017,2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017,2019, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.COSO.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended December 31, 20172019, of the Company, and our report dated February 22, 201819, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statementsstatements.

As described in the Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management excluded from its assessment the internal control over financial reporting the acquisitions of packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar), France (Torigni and Cabourg), and Spain (Tavernes de la Valldigna and Montblanc) completed during 2019. The acquired businesses constitute 0.4% of net sales and 0.6% of total assets of the consolidated financial statement schedule.amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019. Accordingly, our audit did not include the internal control over financial reporting at these acquired businesses.


Basis for Opinion
The Company'sCompany’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is

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to express an opinion on the Company'sCompany’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company'scompany’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company'scompany’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company'scompany’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.











Because of theits inherent limitations, of internal control over financial reporting including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be preventedprevent or detected on a timely basis.detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP


Memphis, Tennessee
February 22, 201819, 2020

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
 
In millions, except per share amounts, for the years ended December 31201720162015201920182017
NET SALES$21,743
$19,495
$20,675
$22,376
$23,306
$21,743
COSTS AND EXPENSES  
Cost of products sold15,300
14,057
14,313
15,268
15,555
14,802
Selling and administrative expenses1,653
1,484
1,539
1,647
1,723
1,621
Depreciation, amortization and cost of timber harvested1,343
1,124
1,167
1,306
1,328
1,343
Distribution expenses1,434
1,237
1,248
1,560
1,567
1,434
Taxes other than payroll and income taxes169
154
158
170
171
169
Restructuring and other charges67
54
252
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles

137
Restructuring and other charges, net57
29
67
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses9
70
174
205
122
9
Litigation settlement354


Antitrust fines and settlements32

354
Net bargain purchase gain on acquisition of business(6)



(6)
Interest expense, net572
520
555
491
536
572
Non-operating pension expense36
494
530
EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND EQUITY EARNINGS (LOSSES)848
795
1,132
1,604
1,781
848
Income tax provision (benefit)(1,085)193
417
634
445
(1,085)
Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes177
198
117
250
336
177
EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS2,110
800
832
1,220
1,672
2,110
Discontinued operations, net of taxes34
102
85

345
34
NET EARNINGS (LOSS)2,144
902
917
1,220
2,017
2,144
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
(2)(21)(5)5

NET EARNINGS (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER
COMPANY
$2,144
$904
$938
$1,225
$2,012
$2,144
BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$5.11
$1.95
$2.05
$3.10
$4.07
$5.11
Discontinued operations, net of taxes0.08
0.25
0.20

0.84
0.08
Net earnings (loss)$5.19
$2.20
$2.25
$3.10
$4.91
$5.19
DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS  
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$5.05
$1.93
$2.03
$3.07
$4.02
$5.05
Discontinued operations, net of taxes0.08
0.25
0.20

0.83
0.08
Net earnings (loss)$5.13
$2.18
$2.23
$3.07
$4.85
$5.13
AMOUNTS ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS 
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$2,110
$802
$853
Discontinued operations, net of taxes34
102
85
Net earnings (loss)$2,144
$904
$938
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
In millions for the years ended December 31201720162015201920182017
NET EARNINGS (LOSS)$2,144
$902
$917
$1,220
$2,017
$2,144
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), NET OF TAX  
Amortization of pension and postretirement prior service costs and net loss:  
U.S. plans (less tax of $280, $343 and $186)486
545
296
U.S. plans (less tax of $54, $196 and $280)163
588
486
Non-U.S. plans (less tax of $0, $0 and $0)1
1

Pension and postretirement liability adjustments:  
U.S. plans (less tax of $69, $283 and $206)56
(451)(329)
Non-U.S. plans (less tax of $1, $4 and $0)3
3
(2)
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment177
260
(1,042)
U.S. plans (less tax of $7, $6 and $69)22
18
56
Non-U.S. plans (less tax of $3, $1 and $1)(20)4
3
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment (less tax of $1, $1 and $0)116
(473)177
Net gains/losses on cash flow hedging derivatives:  
Net gains (losses) arising during the period (less tax of $4, $3 and $3)15
(6)(3)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net earnings (less tax of $2, $3 and $8)(7)(7)12
Net gains (losses) arising during the period (less tax of $2, $5 and $4)4
(10)15
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net earnings (less tax of $2, $1 and $2)4
2
(7)
TOTAL OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), NET OF TAX730
344
(1,068)290
130
730
Comprehensive Income (Loss)2,874
1,246
(151)1,510
2,147
2,874
Net (Earnings) Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
2
21
5
(5)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests(1)2
6

3
(1)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY$2,873
$1,250
$(124)$1,515
$2,145
$2,873


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.




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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
In millions, except per share amounts, at December 312017201620192018
ASSETS  
Current Assets  
Cash and temporary investments$1,018
$1,033
$511
$589
Accounts and notes receivable, less allowances of $73 in 2017 and $70 in 20163,287
2,852
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances of $73 in 2019 and $81 in 2018)3,280
3,521
Contract assets393
395
Inventories2,313
2,233
2,208
2,241
Assets held for sale1,377
361
Other current assets282
191
247
250
Total Current Assets8,277
6,670
6,639
6,996
Plants, Properties and Equipment, net13,265
13,003
13,004
13,067
Forestlands448
456
391
402
Investments390
360
1,721
1,648
Financial Assets of Special Purpose Entities (Note 12)7,051
7,033
Long-Term Assets Held for Sale
1,018
Financial Assets of Variable Interest Entities (Note 15)7,088
7,070
Goodwill3,411
3,364
3,347
3,374
Right of Use Assets434

Deferred Charges and Other Assets1,061
1,189
847
1,019
TOTAL ASSETS$33,903
$33,093
$33,471
$33,576
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY  
Current Liabilities  
Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt$311
$239
$168
$639
Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities (Note 15)4,220

Accounts payable2,458
2,199
2,423
2,413
Accrued payroll and benefits485
401
466
535
Liabilities held for sale805
161
Other accrued liabilities1,043
1,069
Other current liabilities1,369
1,107
Total Current Liabilities5,102
4,069
8,646
4,694
Long-Term Liabilities Held for Sale
8
Long-Term Debt10,846
11,075
9,597
10,015
Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Special Purpose Entities (Note 12)6,291
6,284
Long-Term Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Variable Interest Entities (Note 15)2,085
6,298
Deferred Income Taxes2,291
3,127
2,633
2,600
Pension Benefit Obligation1,939
3,400
1,578
1,762
Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Obligation326
330
270
264
Long-Term Lease Obligations304

Other Liabilities567
441
640
560
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Note 11)
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Note 14)

Equity  
Common stock $1 par value, 2017 - 448.9 shares & 2016 – 448.9 shares449
449
Common stock $1 par value, 2019 - 448.9 shares and 2018 - 448.9 shares449
449
Paid-in capital6,206
6,189
6,297
6,280
Retained earnings6,180
4,818
8,408
7,465
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(4,633)(5,362)(4,739)(4,500)
8,202
6,094
10,415
9,694
Less: Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 2017 – 35.975 shares and 2016 – 37.671 shares1,680
1,753
Less: Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 2019 – 56.800 shares and 2018 – 48.310 shares2,702
2,332
Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity6,522
4,341
7,713
7,362
Noncontrolling interests19
18
5
21
Total Equity6,541
4,359
7,718
7,383
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$33,903
$33,093
$33,471
$33,576
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
 
In millions for the years ended December 31201720162015201920182017
OPERATING ACTIVITIES  
Net earnings (loss)$2,144
$902
$917
$1,220
$2,017
$2,144
Depreciation, amortization, and cost of timber harvested1,423
1,227
1,294
1,306
1,328
1,423
Deferred income tax provision (benefit), net(1,113)136
281
212
133
(1,113)
Restructuring and other charges67
54
252
Pension plan contribution(1,250)(750)(750)
Restructuring and other charges, net57
29
67
Pension plan contributions

(1,250)
Periodic pension expense, net717
809
461
93
632
717
Net gain on transfer of North American Consumer Packaging business
(488)
Net bargain purchase gain on acquisition of business(6)



(6)
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses9
70
174
205
122
9
Ilim dividends received133
58
35
Equity (earnings) losses, net of taxes(177)(198)(117)
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets

137
Antitrust fines32


Equity method dividends received273
153
133
Equity (earnings) losses, net(250)(336)(177)
Other, net212
99
118
120
75
212
Changes in current assets and liabilities  
Accounts and notes receivable(370)(94)7
246
(342)(370)
Contract assets2
(32)
Inventories(87)11
(131)(1)(236)(87)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities114
98
(89)139
151
114
Interest payable1
41
(17)(19)(8)1
Other(60)15
8
(25)28
(60)
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) OPERATING ACTIVITIES1,757
2,478
2,580
3,610
3,226
1,757
INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES  
Invested in capital projects(1,391)(1,348)(1,487)(1,276)(1,572)(1,391)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired(45)(2,228)
(103)(8)(45)
Proceeds from divestitures4
108
23
Investment in Special Purpose Entities

(198)
Net settlement on transfer of North American Consumer Packaging business
(40)
Proceeds from divestitures, net of cash divested81

4
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets26
19
37
18
23
26
Other15
(49)(114)(20)28
15
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES(1,391)(3,498)(1,739)(1,300)(1,569)(1,391)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES  
Repurchase of common stock and payments of restricted stock tax withholding(47)(132)(605)
Issuance of common stock

2
Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock tax withholding(535)(732)(47)
Issuance of debt1,907
3,830
6,873
534
490
1,907
Reduction of debt(1,424)(1,938)(6,947)(1,507)(1,008)(1,424)
Change in book overdrafts26

(14)(66)(1)26
Dividends paid(769)(733)(685)(796)(789)(769)
Debt tender premiums paid(84)(31)(211)
Net debt tender premiums paid(18)(6)(84)
Other(8)(14)(14)(1)
(8)
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) FINANCING ACTIVITIES(399)982
(1,601)(2,389)(2,046)(399)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash18
21
(71)1
(40)18
Change in Cash and Temporary Investments(15)(17)(831)(78)(429)(15)
Cash and Temporary Investments  
Beginning of the period1,033
1,050
1,881
589
1,018
1,033
End of the period$1,018
$1,033
$1,050
$511
$589
$1,018
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY



In millionsCommon Stock IssuedPaid-in CapitalRetained EarningsAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Treasury StockTotal International Paper Shareholders’ EquityNoncontrolling InterestsTotal EquityCommon Stock IssuedPaid-in CapitalRetained EarningsAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Common Stock Held In Treasury, At CostTotal International Paper Shareholders’ EquityNoncontrolling InterestsTotal Equity
BALANCE, JANUARY 1, 2015$449
$6,245
$4,409
$(4,646)$1,342
$5,115
$148
$5,263
BALANCE, JANUARY 1, 2017$449
$6,189
$4,818
$(5,362)$1,753
$4,341
$18
$4,359
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
35


(198)233

233

42


(120)162

162
Repurchase of stock



605
(605)
(605)



47
(47)
(47)
Dividends

(698)

(698)
(698)
Dividends ($1.863 per share)

(782)

(782)
(782)
Transactions of equity method investees
(25)


(25)
(25)
Comprehensive income (loss)

2,144
729

2,873
1
2,874
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2017449
6,206
6,180
(4,633)1,680
6,522
19
6,541
Adoption of ASC 606 revenue from contracts with customers

73


73

73
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
62


(80)142

142
Repurchase of stock



732
(732)
(732)
Dividends ($1.925 per share)

(800)

(800)
(800)
Transactions of equity method investees
12



12

12
Comprehensive income (loss)

2,012
133

2,145
2
2,147
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2018449
6,280
7,465
(4,500)2,332
7,362
21
7,383
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 reclassification of stranded tax effects resulting from Tax Reform

529
(529)



Issuance of stock for various plans, net
(18)

(165)147

147
Repurchase of stock



535
(535)
(535)
Dividends ($2.013 per share)

(811)

(811)
(811)
Transactions of equity method investees
(37)


(37)
(37)
35



35

35
Divestiture of noncontrolling interests





(96)(96)





(11)(11)
Comprehensive income (loss)

938
(1,062)
(124)(27)(151)

1,225
290

1,515
(5)1,510
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2015449
6,243
4,649
(5,708)1,749
3,884
25
3,909
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
(6)

(128)122

122
Repurchase of stock



132
(132)
(132)
Dividends

(743)

(743)
(743)
Transactions of equity method investees
(48)


(48)
(48)
Divestiture of noncontrolling interests





(3)(3)
Other

8


8

8
Comprehensive income (loss)

904
346

1,250
(4)1,246
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2016449
6,189
4,818
(5,362)1,753
4,341
18
4,359
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
42


(120)162

162
Repurchase of stock



47
(47)
(47)
Dividends

(782)

(782)
(782)
Transactions of equity method investees
(25)


(25)
(25)
Comprehensive income (loss)

2,144
729

2,873
1
2,874
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2017$449
$6,206
$6,180
$(4,633)$1,680
$6,522
$19
$6,541
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2019$449
$6,297
$8,408
$(4,739)$2,702
$7,713
$5
$7,718
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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NATURE OF BUSINESS


International Paper (the Company) is a global paper and packaging company with primary markets and manufacturing operations in North America, Europe, Latin America, North Africa India and Russia. Substantially all of our businesses have experienced, and are likely to continue to experience, cycles relating to available industry capacity and general economic conditions.


FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States that require the use of management’s estimates. Actual results could differ from management’s estimates. Prior-period amounts have been adjusted to conform with current year presentation.


On January 1, 2018, the Company completed the previously announced transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business which includes its North American Coated Paperboard and Foodservice businesses, to a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. The Company received a 20.5% ownership interest in a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company that holds the assets of the combined business. As a result of this transfer, all current and prior year amounts have been adjusted to reflect the North American Consumer Packaging business as a discontinued operation. See Note 78 for further discussion.details.


CONSOLIDATION


The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of International Paper and its wholly-owned, controlled majority-owned and financially controlled subsidiaries.subsidiaries for which we have a controlling financial interest, including variable interest entities for which we are the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated.


Investments in affiliated companies whereEQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS

The equity method of accounting is applied for investments when the Company has significant influence over the investee’s operations, or when the investee is structured with separate capital accounts and our investment is considered more than minor. Our material equity method investments are described in Note 11

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

The Company allocates the total consideration of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair value as of the business combination date. In developing estimates of fair values for long-lived assets, including identifiable intangible assets, the Company utilizes a variety of inputs including forecasted cash flows, anticipated growth rates, discount rates, estimated replacement costs and depreciation and obsolescence factors. Determining the fair value for
specifically identified intangible assets such as customer lists and developed technology involves judgment. We may refine our estimates and make adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed over a measurement period, not to exceed one year. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or the final determination of the values of asset acquired and liabilities assumed, whichever comes first, any subsequent adjustments are charged to the consolidated statement of earnings. Subsequent actual results of the underlying business activity supporting the specifically identified intangible assets could change, requiring us to record impairment charges or adjust their economic lives in future periods. See Note 7 for further details.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

A discontinued operation may include a component or a group of components of the Company's operations. A disposal of a component or a group of components is reported in discontinued operations are accountedif the disposal represents a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on the Company's operations and financial results when the following occurs: (1) a component (or group of components) meets the criteria to be classified as held for sale; (2) the component or group of components is disposed of by sale; or (3) the equity method. International Paper’s sharecomponent or group of affiliates’components is disposed of other than by sale (for example, by abandonment or in a distribution to owners in a spinoff).For any component classified as held for sale or disposed of by sale or other than by sale, qualifying for presentation as a discontinued operation, the Company reports the results of operations totaled earnings (loss) of $177 million, $198 millionthe discontinued operations (including any gain or loss recognized on the disposal or loss recognized on classification as held for sale of a discontinued operation), less applicable income taxes (benefit), as a separate component in the consolidated statement of operations for current and $117 millionall prior periods presented. See Note 8 for further details.

RESTRUCTURING     LIABILITIES AND COSTS

For operations to be closed or restructured, a liability and related expense is recorded in 2017, 2016the period when operations cease. For termination costs associated with employees covered by a written or substantive plan, a liability is recorded when it is probable that employees will be entitled to benefits and 2015, respectively.the amount can be reasonably estimated. For termination costs associated with employees not covered by a written and broadly communicated policy covering involuntary termination benefits (severance plan), a liability is recorded for costs to terminate employees (one-time termination benefits) when the termination plan has been approved and committed to by management, the employees to be terminated have been identified, the termination plan benefit terms are communicated, the employees identified in the plan have been notified and actions required to complete the plan indicate that it is unlikely

that significant changes to the plan will be made or that the plan will be withdrawn. The timing and amount of an accrual is dependent upon the type of benefits granted, the timing of communication and other provisions that may be provided in the benefit plan. The accounting for each termination is evaluated individually. See Note 6 for further details.

REVENUE RECOGNITION


Revenue is recognizedGenerally, the Company recognizes revenue on a point-in-time basis when the customer takes title to the goods and assumes the risks and rewards of ownership. Revenuefor the goods. For customized goods where the Company has a legally enforceable right to payment for the goods, the Company recognizes revenue over time, which generally is, recorded atas the time of shipment for terms designated f.o.b. (free on board) shipping point. For sales
goods are produced.

transactions designated f.o.b. destination,The Company’s revenue is recorded whenprimarily derived from fixed consideration; however, we do have contract terms that give rise to variable consideration, primarily cash discounts and volume rebates. International Paper offers early payment discounts to customers across the productCompany’s businesses. The Company estimates the expected cash discounts and other customer refunds based on the historical experience across the Company’s portfolio of customers to record reductions in revenue which is deliveredconsistent with the most likely amount method outlined in ASC 606. Management has concluded that this method is the best estimate of the consideration the Company will be entitled to the customer’s delivery site, when title and risk of loss are transferred. Timber and forestlandfrom its customers.

The Company has elected to present all sales revenue is generally recognized when title and risk of loss pass to the buyer.

SHIPPING AND HANDLING COSTS

Shipping and handling costs, such as freight to our customers’ destinations, are included in distribution expenses in the consolidated statement of operations. Whentaxes on a net basis, account for shipping and handling activities as fulfillment activities, recognize the incremental costs are includedof obtaining a contract as expense when incurred if the amortization period of the asset the Company would recognize is one year or less, and not record interest income or interest expense when the difference in the sales price chargedtiming of control or transfer and customer payment is one year or less. See Note 3 for our products, they are recognized in net sales.further details.

ANNUAL MAINTENANCE COSTS

Costs for repair and maintenance activities are expensed in the month that the related activity is performed under the direct expense method of accounting.


TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS


Temporary investments with an original maturity of three months or less and money market funds with greater than three month maturities but with the right to redeem without notice are treated as cash equivalents and are stated at cost, which approximates market value. See Note 9 for further details.


INVENTORIES


Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market value and include all costs directly associated with manufacturing products: materials, labor and manufacturing overhead. In the United States, costs of raw materials and finished pulp and paper products, are generally determined using the last-in, first-out method.
Other inventories are valued using the first-in, first-out or average cost methods. See Note 9 for further details.


LEASED ASSETS

Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at the commencement date of the lease based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. The Company's leases may include options to extend or terminate the lease. These options to extend are included in the lease term when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Some leases have variable payments, however, because they are not based on an index or rate, they are not included in the ROU assets and liabilities. Variable payments for real estate leases primarily related to common area maintenance, insurance, taxes and utilities. Variable payments for equipment, vehicles, and leases within supply agreements primarily related to usage, repairs and maintenance. As the implicit rate is not readily determinable for most of the Company's leases, the Company applies a portfolio approach using an estimated incremental borrowing rate to determine the initial present value of lease payments over the lease terms on a collateralized basis over a similar term, which is based on market and company specific information. We use the unsecured borrowing rate and risk-adjust that rate to approximate a collateralized rate, and apply the rate based on the currency of the lease, which is updated on a quarterly basis for measurement of new lease liabilities. Leases having a lease term of twelve months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet and the related lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. In addition, the Company has applied the practical expedient to account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component for all of the Company's leases. See Note 10 for further details.

PLANTS, PROPERTIES AND EQUIPMENT


Plants, properties and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for betterments are capitalized, whereas normal repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. The units-of-production method of depreciation is used for pulp and paper mills, and the straight-line method is used for other plants and equipment. See Note 9 for further details.


GOODWILL


Annual testingevaluation for possible goodwill impairment is performed as of the beginning of the fourth quarter of each year, with additional interim testingevaluation performed when management believes that it is more likely than not, that events or circumstances have occurred that would result in the impairment of a reporting unit’s goodwill.


The Company has the option to assessevaluate goodwill for impairment by first performing a qualitative ("Step 0") assessment of events and circumstances to determine whether it is

more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its

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carrying amount. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, the Company determines that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amounts, then the two-stepquantitative goodwill impairment test is not required to be performed. If the companyCompany determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, or if the Company does not elect the option to perform an initial qualitative assessment, the Company performsis required to perform the two-stepquantitative goodwill impairment test. In performing this testing,evaluation, the Company estimates the fair value of its reporting unitsunit using the projecteda probability-weighted approach based on discounted future cash flows, to be generated by each unit, discounted for each reporting unit. These estimated fair values are then analyzed for reasonableness by comparing them to historic market transactions for businessesmultiples and transaction multiples. Key assumptions in the industry,quantitative goodwill impairment test considered by management include the discount rate, long-term growth rate, tax rate, inflation rate, and by comparing the sum of the reporting unit fair values and other corporate assets and liabilities divided by diluted common shares outstanding to the Company’s traded stock price on the testing date.business forecast. For reporting units whose recorded value of net assets plus goodwillcarrying amount is in excess of their estimated fair values,value, the fair values of the individual assets and liabilities of the respective reporting units are then determined to calculateunit will record an impairment charge by the amount of any goodwill impairment charge required, if any.
The Company performed its annual testing of itsthat the carrying amount exceeds the reporting units for possible goodwill impairments by applying the qualitative Step 0 analysis to its reporting units as of October 1, 2017. For the current year test, the Company assessed various assumptions, events and circumstances that would have affected the estimatedunit's fair value, not to exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting units. The results of this assessment indicated that it is not more likely than not that the fair values of the Company's reporting units were less than the carrying values of the reporting units.
In addition, the Company considered whether there were any events or circumstances subsequent to the annual test that would reduce the fair value of its reporting units below their carrying amounts and necessitate another goodwill impairment test. In consideration of all relevant factors, there were no indicators that would require goodwill impairment subsequent to October 1, 2017.unit. See Note 912 for further discussion.


IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS


Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that indicate that the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable, measuredrecoverable. A recoverability test is performed based on undiscounted cash flows, requiring judgments as to whether assets are held and used or held for sale, the weighting of operational alternatives being considered by comparing their net book value tomanagement and estimates of the undiscounted projectedamount and timing of expected future cash flows from the use of the long-lived assets generated by their use. Impaired assets are recorded at their estimated fair value. See Note 8 for further discussion.


INCOME TAXES


International Paper uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes whereby deferred income taxes are recorded for the future tax consequences
attributable to differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are remeasured to reflect new tax rates in the periods rate changes are enacted.


International Paper records its worldwide tax provision based on the respective tax rules and regulations for the jurisdictions in which it operates. Where the Company believes that a tax position is supportable for income tax purposes, the item is included in its income tax returns.
Where treatment of a position is uncertain, liabilities are recorded based upon the Company’s evaluation of the “more likely than not” outcome considering the technical merits of the position based on specific tax regulations and the facts of each matter. Changes to recorded liabilities are made only when an identifiable event occurs that changes the likely outcome, such as settlement with the relevant tax authority, the expiration of statutes of limitation for the subject tax year, a change in tax laws, or a recent court case that addresses the matter.


While the judgments and estimates made by the Company are based on management’s evaluation of the technical merits of a matter, assisted as necessary by consultation with outside consultants, historical experience and other assumptions that management believes are appropriate and reasonable under current circumstances, actual resolution of these matters may differ from recorded estimated amounts, resulting in adjustments that could materially affect future financial statements. See Note 13 for further details.


International Paper uses the flow-through method to account for investment tax credits earned on eligible open-loop biomass facilities and combined heat and power system expenditures. Under this method, the investment tax credits are recognized as a reduction to income tax expense in the year they are earned rather than a reduction in the asset basis.

ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION COSTS


Costs associated with environmental remediation obligations are accrued when such costs are probable and reasonably estimable. Such accruals are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of future expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are discounted to their present value when the amount and timing of expected cash payments are reliably estimable.determinable. See Note 14 for further details.


TRANSLATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Balance sheets of international operations are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates, while statements of operations are translated at average rates. Adjustments resulting from financial statement translations are included as cumulative translation adjustments in Accumulated other comprehensive loss.

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Other than as described below, no new accounting pronouncement issued or effective during the fiscal year has had or is expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.


COMPREHENSIVE INCOME



In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, "Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income." This guidance gives entities the option to reclassify stranded tax effects caused by the newly-enacted U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance.
RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS


DERIVATIVES AND HEDGINGIntangibles


In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, "Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities." The objective of this new guidance is the improvement of the financial reporting of hedging relationships to better portray the economic results of an entity's risk management activities in its financial statements. In addition to that main objective, the amendments in this guidance make certain targeted improvements to simplify the application of the hedge accounting guidance in current GAAP. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted. The Company early adopted the provisions of this guidance effective January 1, 2018, with no material impact on the financial statements.

RETIREMENT BENEFITS

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07, "Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Costs and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost." Under this new guidance, employers will present the service costs component of the net periodic benefit cost in the same income statement line item(s) as other employee compensation costs arising from services rendered during the period. In addition, only the service cost component will be eligible for capitalization in assets. Employers will present the other components separately from the Line item(s) that includes the service cost and outside of any subtotal of operating income. In addition, disclosure of the Line(s) used to present the other components of net periodic benefit cost will be required if the components are not presented separately in the income statement. This guidance is effective for
annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an annual period for which financial statement (interim or annual) have not been issued or made available for issuance. The Company adopted the provisions of the guidance on January 1, 2018, using the retrospective method. The adoption resulted in a change in our adjusted operating profit (used to measure the earnings performance of the Company's business segments), which is offset by a corresponding change in non-operating pension expense to reflect the impact of presenting the amortization of the prior service cost component of net periodic pension expense outside of operating income. This guidance had no impact on our statements of financial position or cash flows.

INTANGIBLES

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment." This guidance eliminates the requirement to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill under Step 2 of today'sthe previous goodwill impairment test approach to measure a goodwill impairment charge. Instead, entities will record an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit's carrying amount over its fair value. This guidance should be applied prospectively and is effectiveprospectively. The Company early adopted the provision of this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2019 in conjunction with our annual evaluation for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019, for any impairment test performed in 2020. Early adoption is permitted for annual and interimpossible goodwill impairment testing dates after January 1, 2017.which resulted in the recognition of a goodwill impairment charge of $52 million for the Global Cellulose Fibers reporting unit. See Note 12.

Pension Plan Disclosures

In July 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-09, "Codification Improvements," which included amendments to Subtopic 962-325. This disclosure guidance pertains to the presentation of certain types of investments. The Company is currently evaluatingadopted the provisions of this guidance; however, we doguidance in the fourth quarter of 2019 in conjunction with the preparation of our 2019 annual Form 10-K disclosures and presentation related to pension plan assets.

Leases
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842): Leases." The Company adopted the provisions of this guidance effective January 1, 2019, using the modified retrospective optional transition method. Therefore, the standard was applied beginning January 1, 2019, and prior periods were not anticipaterestated. The adoption havingof the standard did not result in a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of Retained earnings. The Company elected the package of practical expedients and implemented internal controls and system functionality to enable the preparation of financial information upon adoption.
The adoption of the new standard resulted in the recognition of a right of use asset and short-term and long-term liabilities recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheet related to operating leases. Accounting for finance leases remained substantially unchanged. In addition, the adoption of the standard did not have a material impact on the financial statements.Company's results of operations or cash flows. See Note 10.


INCOME TAXES

Comprehensive Income

In October 2016,February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16,2018-02, "Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income." This guidance provided entities the option to reclassify stranded tax effects caused by the newly-enacted U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings. As a result, the Company adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2019, and recorded a net increase to opening Retained earnings and a decrease to opening Accumulated other comprehensive income of $529 million, due to the cumulative impact of adopting the new guidance.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS NOT YET ADOPTED

Income Taxes

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory." This ASU requires companies to recognizeSimplifying the income tax effects of intercompany sales and transfers of assets other than inventory in the period in which the transfer occurs rather than defer the income tax effects which is current practice. This new guidance is effectiveAccounting for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those years. The guidance requires companies to apply a modified retrospective approach with a cumulative catch-up adjustment to opening retained earnings in the period of adoption. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect that the adoption of this standard will result in a material impact on the financial statements.
STOCK COMPENSATION
In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): "Scope of Modification Accounting.Income Taxes." This guidance

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clarifies when changes removes certain exceptions from recognizing deferred taxes for investments, performing intraperiod allocation and calculating income taxes in interim periods. It also adds guidance to the terms or conditionsreduce complexity in certain areas, including recognizing deferred taxes for tax goodwill and allocating taxes to members of a share-based payment award must be accounted for as modifications. Under this guidance, entities will apply the modification accounting guidance if the value, vesting conditions or classification of the award changes.consolidated group. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017,2020, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption of the amendments is permitted, including adoption in any interim period.period for public business entities for periods for which financial statements have not yet been issued. The Company adoptedis currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance on January 1, 2018, with no material impact on the financial statements.guidance.


LEASESFinancial Instruments - Credit Losses

In FebruaryJune 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases Topic (842)2016-13, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): "Leases.Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments." This ASU will require most leases to be recognized onguidance replaces the balance sheet which will increase reported assets and liabilities. Lessor accounting will remain substantially similar to current U.S. GAAP. This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years, and mandatesincurred loss impairment method with a modified retrospective transition method for all entities. The Company expects to adopt this guidance using a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. We expect to recognize a liability and corresponding asset associated with in-scope operating and finance leases but we are still in the process of determining those amounts and the processes required to account for leasing activity on an ongoing basis.

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, "Business Combinations (Topic 805) - Clarifying the Definition of a Business." Under the new guidance, an entity must first determine whether substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets. If this threshold is met, the set of transferred assets and activities is not a business. If this threshold is not met, the entity then evaluates whether the set meets the requirement that a business include, at a minimum, an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs.reflects expected credit losses. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The Company adoptedhas substantially completed its evaluation of the provisions of this guidance on January 1, 2018 with no material impact on the financial statements.









REVENUE RECOGNITION
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." This guidance replaces most existing revenue recognition guidance and provides that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. This ASU was effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those years and permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method; however, in August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14 which defers the effective date by one year making the guidance effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The FASB has continued to clarify this guidance in various updates during 2015 and 2016, all of which, have the same effective date as the original guidance.

We have evaluated the impact of ASU 2014-09 and all related ASUs on our consolidated financial statements. The Company's transition team, including representatives from all of our business segments, has finalized its review and analysis of the impact of the standard on our revenue contracts. Surveys were developed and reviews of customer contracts were performed in order to gather information and identify areas of the Company's business where potential differences could result in applying the requirements of the new standard to its revenue contracts. The results of the surveys, contract reviews and legal analysis indicate that the adoption of the standarddetermined it will require acceleration of revenue for products produced by the Company without an alternative future use and where the Company has a legally enforceable right of payment for production of products completed to date. The Company adopted the new revenue guidance effective January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective transition method. Due to the repetitive nature of our sales, we do not expect the impact of this acceleration to significantly alter our reported sales over time. In addition, we do not expect the net impact of adoption to have a material impact on ourthe consolidated results.statement of position, results of operations or cash flows. The Company will adopt this guidance using the modified retrospective approach on its

49
effective date of January 1, 2020. As a result of using this approach, the Company will recognize the

cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings for initial application of the guidance.


NOTE 3 - REVENUE RECOGNITION
Table
DISAGGREGATED REVENUE

A geographic disaggregation of Contentsrevenues across our company segmentation in the following tables provides information to assist in evaluating the nature, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows and how they may be impacted by economic factors.
  2019
Reportable Segments Industrial Packaging Global Cellulose Fibers Printing Papers Corporate & Intersegment Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)          
United States $12,668
 $2,148
 $1,912
 $220
 $16,948
EMEA 1,692
 254
 1,323
 (11) 3,258
Pacific Rim and Asia 65
 149
 189
 12
 415
Americas, other than U.S. 901
 
 867
 (13) 1,755
Total $15,326
 $2,551
 $4,291
 $208
 $22,376
           
Operating Segments          
North American Industrial Packaging $13,509
 $
 $
 $
 $13,509
EMEA Industrial Packaging 1,335
 
 
 
 1,335
Brazilian Industrial Packaging 235
 
 
 
 235
European Coated Paperboard 365
 
 
 
 365
Global Cellulose Fibers 
 2,551
 
 
 2,551
North American Printing Papers 
 
 1,956
 
 1,956
Brazilian Papers 
 
 967
 
 967
European Papers 
 
 1,250
 
 1,250
Indian Papers 
 
 160
 
 160
Intra-segment Eliminations (118) 
 (42) 
 (160)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales 
 
 
 208
 208
Total $15,326
 $2,551
 $4,291
 $208
 $22,376

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the reportable segment making the sale.



  2018
Reportable Segments Industrial Packaging Global Cellulose Fibers Printing Papers Corporate & Intersegment Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)          
United States $13,167
 $2,336
 $1,903
 $203
 $17,609
EMEA 1,704
 304
 1,330
 (17) 3,321
Pacific Rim and Asia 142
 179
 245
 39
 605
Americas, other than U.S. 887
 
 897
 (13) 1,771
Total $15,900
 $2,819
 $4,375
 $212
 $23,306
           
Operating Segments          
North American Industrial Packaging $14,187
 $
 $
 $
 $14,187
EMEA Industrial Packaging 1,355
 
 
 
 1,355
Brazilian Industrial Packaging 232
 
 
 
 232
European Coated Paperboard 359
 
 
 
 359
Global Cellulose Fibers 
 2,819
 
 
 2,819
North American Printing Papers 
 
 1,956
 
 1,956
Brazilian Papers 
 
 978
 
 978
European Papers 
 
 1,252
 
 1,252
Indian Papers 
 
 202
 
 202
Intra-segment Eliminations (233) 
 (13) 
 (246)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales 
 
 
 212
 212
Total $15,900
 $2,819
 $4,375
 $212
 $23,306

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the reportable segment making the sale.

REVENUE CONTRACT BALANCES

The opening and closing balances of the Company's contract assets and current contract liabilities are as follows:
In millions Contract Assets (Short-Term) Contract Liabilities (Short-Term)
Beginning Balance - January 1, 2019 $395
 $56
Ending Balance - December 31, 2019 393
 56
Increase / (Decrease) $(2) $


A contract asset is created when the Company recognizes revenue on its customized products prior to having an unconditional right to payment from the customer, which generally does not occur until title and risk of loss passes to the customer.

A contract liability is created when customers prepay for goods prior to the Company transferring those goods to the customer. The contract liability is reduced once control of the goods is transferred to the customer. The

majority of our customer prepayments are received during the fourth quarter each year for goods that will
be transferred to customers over the following twelve months.

The difference between the opening and closing balances of the Company's contract assets and contract liabilities primarily results from the difference between
the price and quantity at comparable points in time for goods which we have an unconditional right to payment or receive pre-payment from the customer, respectively.

PERFORMANCE OBLIGATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT JUDGEMENTS

International Paper's principal business is to manufacture and sell fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper goods. As a general rule, none of our businesses provide equipment installation or other ancillary services outside of producing and shipping packaging, pulp and paper goods to customers.

The nature of the Company's contracts can vary based on the business, customer type and region; however, in all instances it is International Paper's customary business practice to receive a valid order from the

customer, in which each parties' rights and related payment terms are clearly identifiable.

Contracts or purchase orders with customers could include a single type of product or it could include multiple types/grades of products. Regardless, the contracted price with the customer is agreed to at the individual product level outlined in the customer contracts or purchase orders. The Company does not
bundle prices; however, we do negotiate with customers
on pricing and rebates for the same products based on a variety of factors (e.g. level of contractual volume, geographical location, etc.). Management has concluded that the prices negotiated with each individual customer are representative of the stand-alone selling price of the product.



Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing earnings by the weighted average number of common
shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed assuming that all potentially dilutive securities were converted into common shares.


There are no adjustments required to be made to net income for purposes of computing basic and diluted EPS.


A reconciliation of the amounts included in the computation of basic earnings (loss) per share from
continuing operations, and diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations is as follows:
In millions, except per share amounts2019 2018 2017
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to International Paper common shareholders$1,225
 $1,667
 $2,110
Weighted average common shares outstanding395.3
 409.1
 412.7
Effect of dilutive securities:     
Restricted performance share plan3.5
 5.1
 5.0
Weighted average common shares outstanding  – assuming dilution398.8
 414.2
 417.7
Basic earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations$3.10
 $4.07
 $5.11
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations$3.07
 $4.02
 $5.05

In millions, except per share amounts2017 2016 2015
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to International Paper common shareholders$2,110
 $802
 $853
Weighted average common shares outstanding412.7
 411.1
 417.4
Effect of dilutive securities:     
Restricted performance share plan5.0
 4.5
 3.2
Weighted average common shares outstanding  – assuming dilution417.7
 415.6
 420.6
Basic earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations$5.11
 $1.95
 $2.05
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations$5.05
 $1.93
 $2.03





NOTE 45 OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME


The following table presents changes in AOCI, net of tax, reported in the consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31:
In millions201920182017
Defined Benefit Pension and Postretirement Adjustments   
Balance at beginning of period$(1,916)$(2,527)$(3,072)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications2
22
59
Reclassification of stranded tax effects(527)

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income164
589
486
Balance at end of period(2,277)(1,916)(2,527)
Change in Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments   
Balance at beginning of period(2,581)(2,111)(2,287)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications14
(475)178
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income102
2
(1)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
3
(1)
Balance at end of period(2,465)(2,581)(2,111)
Net Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedging Derivatives   
Balance at beginning of period(3)5
(3)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications4
(10)15
Reclassification of stranded tax effects(2)

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income4
2
(7)
Balance at end of period3
(3)5
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) at End of Period$(4,739)$(4,500)$(4,633)
In millions201720162015
Defined Benefit Pension and Postretirement Adjustments   
Balance at beginning of period$(3,072)$(3,169)$(3,134)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications59
(448)(331)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income486
545
296
Balance at end of period(2,527)(3,072)(3,169)
Change in Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments   
Balance at beginning of period(2,287)(2,549)(1,513)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications178
263
(1,002)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income(1)(3)(40)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest(1)2
6
Balance at end of period(2,111)(2,287)(2,549)
Net Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedging Derivatives   
Balance at beginning of period(3)10
1
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications15
(6)(3)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income(7)(7)12
Balance at end of period5(3)10
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) at End of Period$(4,633)$(5,362)$(5,708)

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Reclassifications out of AOCI for the three years ended December 31 were as follows:
Amount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Location of Amount Reclassified from AOCIAmount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Location of Amount Reclassified from AOCI
201720162015 201920182017 
In millions    
Defined benefit pension and postretirement items:    
Prior-service costs$(33)$(37)$(33)(a)Cost of products sold$(10)$(11)$(33)(a)Non-operating pension expense
Actuarial gains/(losses)(733)(851)(449)(a)Cost of products sold(208)(774)(733)(a)Non-operating pension expense
Total pre-tax amount(766)(888)(482) (218)(785)(766) 
Tax (expense)/benefit280
343
186
 54
196
280
 
Net of tax(486)(545)(296) (164)(589)(486) 
Reclassification of stranded tax effects527


 Retained Earnings
Total, net of tax363
(589)(486) 
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments:    
Business acquisitions/divestiture1
3
40
 Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses(102)(2)1
(b)Net (gains) losses on sales and impairment of businesses and Cost of products sold
Tax (expense)/benefit


 


 
Net of tax1
3
40
 (102)(2)1
 
Net gains and losses on cash flow hedging derivatives:    
Foreign exchange contracts9
10
(20)(b)Cost of products sold(6)(3)9
(c)Cost of products sold
Total pre-tax amount9
10
(20) (6)(3)9
 
Tax (expense)/benefit(2)(3)8
 2
1
(2) 
Net of tax7
7
(12) (4)(2)7
 
Reclassification of stranded tax effects2


 Retained Earnings
Total, net of tax(2)(2)7
 
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax$(478)$(535)$(268) $259
$(593)$(478) 


(a) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (see Note 1619 for additional details).
(b) Amounts for 2018 were reclassed to Discontinued operations, net of taxes.
(c) This accumulated other comprehensive income component is included in our derivatives and hedging activities (see Note 1417 for additional details).





2017:2019: During 2017,2019, restructuring and other charges, net, totaling $67 million before taxes were recorded. These charges included:
In millions 2017
Early debt extinguishment costs (see Note 13) $83
Gain on sale of investment in ArborGen (14)
Other (2)
Total $67

2016: During 2016, total restructuring and other charges of $54$57 million before taxes were recorded. These charges included:
In millions 2016
Early debt extinguishment costs (see Note 13) $29
India packaging evaluation write-off 17
Gain on sale of investment in Arizona Chemical (8)
Riegelwood mill conversion costs (a) 9
Turkey mill closure (b) 7
Total $54
In millions 2019
Overhead cost reduction initiative (a) $21
EMEA packaging restructuring (b) 15
Early debt extinguishment costs (see Note 16) 21
Total $57


(a)Includes $3 million of accelerated depreciation, $3 million of inventory write-off charges and $3 million of other charges.

(a) Includes pre-tax charges of $11 million, $6 million and $4 million in Corporate, the Printing Papers segment and the Global Cellulose Fibers segment, respectively, for severance related to an overhead cost reduction initiative. The majority of the severance charges will be paid in 2020.
(b) Includes $14 million of severance and $1 million in other charges in conjunction with the restructuring of our EMEA Packaging business. The majority of the severance charges will be paid in 2020.
 
(b)Includes $4 million of accelerated depreciation and $3 million of severance charges which is related to 85 employees.


2015: 2018: During 2015, total2018, restructuring and other charges, of $252net, totaling $29 million before taxes were recorded. These charges included:
In millions 2015
Early debt extinguishment costs (see Note 13) $207
Timber monetization restructuring 16
Legal liability reserve adjustment 15
Riegelwood mill conversion costs net of proceeds from the sale of Carolina Coated Bristols brand (a) 8
Other 6
Total $252
In millions 2018
EMEA packaging restructuring (a) $47
Gain on sale of investment in Liaison Technologies Inc. (31)
Early debt extinguishment costs (see Note 16) 10
Riverdale mill conversion severance 3
Total $29

(a) Includes $33 million of severance, $6 million in accelerated depreciation, $2 million in accelerated amortization and $6 million in other charges in conjunction with the optimization of our EMEA Packaging business. The majority of the severance charges recorded were paid throughout the year.






(a)Includes $5 million of severance charges, which is related to 69 employees, $24 million of accelerated depreciation, sale proceeds of $22 million and $1 million of other charges.

2017: During 2017, restructuring and other charges, net, totaling $67 million before taxes were recorded. These charges included:

In millions 2017
Early debt extinguishment costs (see Note 16) $83
Gain on sale of investment in ArborGen (14)
Other (2)
Total $67




EMEA PACKAGING BUSINESSES

2019: On June 28, 2019, the Company completed the acquisition of two packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar) and France (Torigni and Cabourg) from DS Smith Packaging. The total purchase consideration, inclusive of working capital adjustments, was approximately €71 million (approximately $81 million at current exchange rates).

The following table summarizes the consideration paid and the amounts of the assets and liabilities assumed as of June 28, 2019:
In millionsJune 28, 2019
Cash and temporary investments$2
Accounts and notes receivable22
Inventory8
Plants, properties and equipment40
Goodwill23
Intangible assets16
Right of use assets3
Deferred charges and other assets1
Total assets acquired115
Short-term debt2
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities21
Other current liabilities4
Deferred income taxes3
Long-term lease obligations3
Other Liabilities1
Total liabilities assumed34
Net assets acquired$81


Since the date of acquisition, Net sales of $50 million and Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings of $4 million from the acquired businesses have been included in the Company's consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019.

The allocation of the consideration paid is preliminary and could be revised as a result of additional information obtained regarding assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and revisions to provisional estimates of fair
values, including, but not limited to, the completion of independent appraisals and valuations related to property, plant and equipment and acquired intangible assets. Adjustments to provisional amounts will be finalized as new information becomes available, but within the adjustment period of up to one year from the acquisition date.

Pro forma information has not been included as it is impracticable to obtain the information due to the lack of availability of historical U.S. GAAP financial data. The results of the operations of these businesses do not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated results of operations.

TANGIER, MOROCCO FACILITY


2017: On June 30, 2017, the Company completed the acquisition of Europac's Tangier, Morocco facility, a corrugated packaging facility, for €40 million (approximately $46 million using the June 30, 2017 exchange rate). After working capital and other post-

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closepost-close adjustments, final consideration exchanged was €33 million (approximately $38 million using the June 30, 2017 exchange rate).

The following table summarizes the provisionalfinal fair value assigned to assets and liabilities acquired as of June 30, 2017:
In millionsJune 30, 2017
Cash and temporary investments$1
Accounts and notes receivable7
Inventory3
Plants, properties and equipment31
Goodwill4
Other intangible assets5
Deferred charges and other assets4
Total assets acquired55
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities4
Long-term debt11
Other long-term liabilities2
Total liabilities assumed17
Net assets acquired$38

In millionsJune 30, 2017
Cash and temporary investments$1
Accounts and notes receivable7
Inventory3
Plants, properties and equipment32
Goodwill4
Other intangible assets5
Deferred charges and other assets4
Total assets acquired56
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities5
Long-term debt11
Other long-term liabilities2
Total liabilities assumed18
Net assets acquired$38



2019: On October 30, 2019, the Company closed the previously announced sale of its controlling interest in International Paper APPM Limited (APPM) to provisional amounts will be finalized within the measurement period of up to one year from the acquisition date. Since the date of acquisition, Net sales of $6 million and Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings of $(1) million from the acquired business have been included in the Company's consolidated statement of operationsWest Coast Paper Mills Limited (WCPM). The net proceeds received for the year ended December 31, 2017. Pro forma information related to the acquisition of the Europac business has not been included as it is impractical to obtain the information due to the lack of availability of financial data and does not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated results of operations.

WEYERHAEUSER PULP BUSINESS

2016: On December 1, 2016, the Company finalized the purchase of Weyerhaeuser's pulp business for approximately $2.2 billion in cash, subject to post-closing adjustments. Under the terms of the agreement,sale totaled $82 million. International Paper acquired four fluff pulp mills, one northern bleached softwood kraft mill and two converting facilities of modified fiber, locatedremains a passive investor retaining a 20% interest in the United States, Canada and Poland.

APPM until such time that IP sells its remaining shares. The following table summarizes the final fair values assigned to assets and liabilities acquired as of December 1, 2016:

In millionsDecember 1, 2016
Cash and temporary investments$12
Accounts and notes receivable195
Inventory238
Other current assets11
Plants, properties and equipment1,711
Goodwill52
Other intangible assets212
Deferred charges and other assets6
Total assets acquired2,437
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities114
Long-term debt104
Other long-term liabilities28
Total liabilities assumed246
Net assets acquired$2,191

In connection with the allocation of fair value, inventories were written up by $33 million to their estimatedCompany will account for its retained investment at fair value. During 2017 and 2016, $14 million before taxes ($8 million after taxes) and $19 million before taxes ($12 million after taxes), respectively, were expensed to Cost of products sold as the related inventory was sold.

Since the date of acquisition, Net sales of $111 million and Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings of $(21) million from the acquired business are included in the Company's consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016. Additionally, Selling and administrative expenses for 2016 include $28 million in charges before taxes ($18 million after taxes) for integration costs associated with the acquisition.

The identifiable intangible assets acquired in connection with the acquisition of the Weyerhaeuser pulp business included the following:
In millions Estimated
Fair Value
Average
Remaining
Useful Life
Asset Class:  (at acquisition
date)
Customer relationships and lists $95
24 years
Trade names, patents, trademarks and developed technology 113
8 years
Other 4
10 years
Total $212
 









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On an unaudited pro forma basis, assuming the acquisitionAs a result of the newly acquired pulp business had closed January 1, 2015, the consolidated results would have reflected Net salestransaction, a net pre-tax impairment charge of $20.8 billion and $22.2 billion and Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings of $942$159 million and $1.3 billion($157 million after taxes) was recorded during 2019. This charge included $97 million related to a loss for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The 2016 pro forma information includes adjustments for additional amortization expense on identifiable intangible assets of $18 million and eliminating the write-off of the estimated fair valuecumulative foreign currency translation of inventory of $19APPM and a $62 million and non-recurring integration costs associated with the acquisition of $30 million, including $12 million of deal costs.

The 2015 pro forma information includes adjustments for additional amortization expense on identifiable intangible assets of $18 million, non-recurring integration costs associated with the acquisition of $30 million, and incremental expense of $33 million associated withloss related to the write-off of the estimated fair valuelong-lived assets of inventory.

The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information was prepared for comparative purposes only and includes certain adjustments, as noted above. They do not reflect the effect of costs or synergies that would have been expected to result from the integration of the acquisition. The pro forma information does not purport to represent International Paper's actual results of operations as if the transaction described above would have occurred as of January 1, 2015, norAPPM. This charge is it necessarily an indicator of future results.

HOLMEN PAPER NEWSPRINT MILL

2016: On June 30, 2016, the Company completed the previously announced acquisition of Holmen Paper's newsprint mill in Madrid, Spain. Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, International Paper purchased the Madrid newsprint mill, as well as, associated recycling operations and a 50% ownership interest in a cogeneration facility. The Company isincluded in the processNet (gains) losses on sales and impairments of converting the mill to produce recycled containerboard with an expected capacity of 440,000 tons. Once completed, the converted mill will support the Company's corrugated packaging business in EMEA.
The Company's aggregate purchase price for the mill, recycling operations and 50% ownership of the cogeneration facility was €53 million (approximately $59 million using June 30, 2016 exchange rate). The assignment of fair value to assets acquired and liabilities assumed was completed in the first quarter of 2017 and is presented in the table below.
In millionsJune 30, 2016
Current assets$14
Equity method investments14
Plants, properties and equipment60
Other long-term assets5
Total assets acquired93
Short-term liabilities9
Long-term liabilities16
Total liabilities assumed25
Net assets acquired$68
The final fair values assigned indicated that the sum of the cash consideration paid was less than the fair value of the underlying net assets, after adjustments, by $6 million, resulting in a bargain purchase gain being recorded on this transaction. The amount of revenue and earnings recognized since the acquisition date are $90 million and a net loss of $2 million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2016. Pro forma information related to the acquisition of the Holmen businesses has not been included as it is impractical to obtain the information due to the lack of availability of financial data and does not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated results of operations.
The Company has accounted for the above acquisitions under ASC 805, "Business Combinations" and the results of operations have been included in International Paper's financial statements beginning with the dates of acquisition.


DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

2017: On January 1, 2018, the Company completed the previously announced transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business, which includes its North American Coated Paperboard and Foodservice businesses, to a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company in exchange for a 20.5% ownership interest in a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company that holds the assets of the combined business. As part of the transaction, International Paper also received $660 million in cash proceeds from a new loan entered into on December 8, 2017, which the Company used to pay down existing debt. The loan was subsequently assumed by Graphic Packaging International, LLC on the transaction closing date and is classified as Liabilities held for sale in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of






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December 31, 2017. International Paper will account for its ownership interest in the combined business under the equity method. The Company has not finalized the fair value of its investment in the combined business, but expects to record a gain on the transfer in the first quarter of 2018.

The North American Consumer Packaging business was historically presented in the Company's Consumer Packaging segment. For further discussion of the transaction's impact to segment reporting, see Note 19.

All current and historical operating results for North American Consumer Packaging are included in Discontinued operations, net of tax, in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations. The following summarizesoperations and is included in the major classesresults for the Printing Papers segment. A loss of line items comprising Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes$9 million (before and Equity Earnings reconciledafter taxes) has been allocated to Discontinued Operations, net of tax,the noncontrolling interest related to the transferimpairment of the North American Consumerlong-lived assets of APPM. The fair value of the Company's retained investment in APPM was $32 million at December 31, 2019.

2018: During 2018, a determination was made that the current carrying value of the long-lived assets of the Brazil Packaging business for all periods presentedexceeded their estimated fair value due to a change in the consolidated statementoutlook for the business. Management engaged a third party to assist with determining the fair value of operations:
In millions2017
2016
2015
Net Sales$1,559
$1,584
$1,690
Costs and Expenses   
Cost of products sold1,179
1,095
1,155
Selling and administrative expenses110
91
106
Depreciation, amortization and cost of timber harvested80
103
127
Distribution expenses126
124
158
Taxes other than payroll and income taxes11
10
10
Interest expense, net1


Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings52
161
134
Income tax provision (benefit)18
54
49
Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes$34
$107
$85

All currentthe business and historicalthe fixed assets. The fair value of the business was calculated using a probability-weighted approach based on discounted future cash flows, market multiples, and transaction multiples and the fair value of the fixed assets was determined using a market approach. As a result, a pre-tax charge of $122 million ($81 million, net of tax) was recorded related to the impairment of an intangible asset and liabilitiesfixed assets. This charge is included in Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of North American Consumer Packaging are classified as current and long-term assets held for sale and current and long-term liabilities held for salebusinesses in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. The following summarizes the major classesstatement of assetsoperations and liabilities of North American Consumer Packaging reconciled to total Assets held for sale and total Liabilities held for sale in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet:
In millions2017
 2016
Accounts and notes receivable$143
 $149
Inventories185
 205
Other current assets3
 7
Current assets held for sale331
 361
Plants, properties and equipment1,021
 987
Deferred charges and other assets25
 31
Long-term assets held for sale1,046
(a)1,018
Total Assets Held for Sale$1,377
 $1,379
Accounts payable$104
 $110
Accrued payroll and benefits25
 29
Other accrued liabilities17
 22
Current liabilities held for sale146
 161
Long-term debt651
 
Other liabilities8
 8
Long-term liabilities held for sale659
(a)8
Total Liabilities Held for Sale$805
 $169

(a) As a result of the January 1, 2018 transfer of the North American Consumer Packaging business, these amounts have been included in current assets held for sale of $1.4 billion and current liabilities held for sale of $805 million in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2017.

Total cash provided by operations related to the North American Consumer Packaging business of $207 million, $268 million and $197 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, is included in Cash Provided By (Used For) Operations in the consolidated statementresults for the Industrial Packaging segment. In the fourth quarter of cash flows. Total cash used2018, the Company announced that it was exploring strategic options for investing activities related to the North American Consumerits Brazil Packaging business of $111 million, $114 million and $178 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, is included in Cash Provided By (Used For) Investing Activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows.business.


OTHER DIVESTITURES AND IMPAIRMENTS

2017: On September 7, 2017, the Company completed the sale of its foodservice business in China to Huhtamaki Hong Kong Limited. Proceeds received totaled approximately RMB 129 million ($18 million using the September 30, 2017 exchange rate). Under the terms of the transaction, and after post-closing adjustments, International Paper received approximately RMB 49 million in exchange for its ownership interest in two2 China foodservice entities and RMB 80 million for the sale of notes receivable from the acquired entities.


Subsequent to the announced agreement in June 2017, a determination was made that the current book value of the asset group exceeded its estimated fair value of $7 million, which was the agreed upon selling price. As a result, a pre-tax charge of $9 million was recorded during the second quarter of 2017, to write down the long-lived assets of this business to their estimated fair value. Amounts related to this business included in the

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Company's statement of operations were immaterial for all periods presented.

2016:
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

2017: On June 30, 2016,January 1, 2018, the Company completed the saletransfer of its corrugated packagingNorth American Consumer Packaging business, which included its North American Coated Paperboard and Foodservice businesses, to Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC (GPIP), a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company, in China and Southeast Asiaexchange for a 20.5% ownership interest in GPIP. GPIP subsequently transferred the North American Consumer Packaging business to Xiamen Bridge Hexing Equity Investment Partnership Enterprise. Under the termsGraphic Packaging International, LLC (GPI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the transaction and after post-closing adjustments,GPIP. International Paper received a total of approximately RMB 957 million (approximately $144 million atis accounting for its ownership interest in the June 30, 2016 exchange rate), which includedcombined business under the buyer's assumption of a liability for outstanding loans of approximately $55 million which are payable up to three years fromequity method. The Company determined the closing of the sale. The remaining balance of the outstanding loans payable to International Paper as of December 31, 2017, totaled $9 million.

Based on the final sales price, a determination was made that the current bookfair value of the asset group was not recoverable. As a result, a pre-tax charge of $46 million was recorded during 2016its investment in the Company's Industrial Packaging segment to write down the long-lived assets of thiscombined business to their estimated fair value. In addition, the Companybe $1.1 billion and recorded a pre-tax chargegain of $24$488 million ($364 million, net of tax) in 2018. The fair value was calculated using a market approach using inputs classified as Level 2 and Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 17.

All current and historical operating results for severance that was contingent upon the sale of this business. The 2016 net loss totaling $70 million related to the impairment and severance of IP AsiaNorth American Consumer Packaging isare included in Net (gains) losses on sales and impairmentsDiscontinued operations, net of businesses in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.
The amount of pre-tax losses related to the IP Asia Packaging business included in the Company's consolidated statement of operations were $83 million, and $8 million for years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

2015: On October 13, 2015, the Company finalized the sale of its 55% interest in IP Asia Coated Paperboard (IP-Sun JV) business to its Chinese coated board joint venture partner, Shandong Sun Holding Group Co., Ltd. for RMB 149 million (approximately USD $23 million). During the third quarter of 2015, a determination was made that the current book value of the asset group was not recoverable. As a result, the net pre-tax impairment charge of $174 million ($113 million after taxes) was recorded to write down the long-lived assets of this business to its estimated fair value. The impairment charge is included in Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businessestax, in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations. The amountfollowing summarizes the major classes of pre-tax lossesline items comprising Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings reconciled to Discontinued Operations, net of tax, related to noncontrolling interestthe transfer of the IP-Sun JV includedNorth American Consumer Packaging business for all prior periods presented in the Company's consolidated statement of operations:
In millions2018
2017
Net Sales$
$1,559
Costs and Expenses  
Cost of products sold
1,179
Selling and administrative expenses25
110
Depreciation, amortization and cost of timber harvested
80
Distribution expenses
126
Taxes other than payroll and income taxes
11
(Gain) loss on transfer of business(488)
Interest expense, net
1
Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings463
52
Income tax provision (benefit)118
18
Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes$345
$34


Total cash provided by (used for) operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $19 million. The amount of pre-tax losses related to the IP-Sun JVNorth American Consumer Packaging business of $(25) million and $207 million for 2018 and 2017 is included in Cash Provided By (Used For) Operations in the Company's consolidated statement of operationscash flows. Total cash used for investing activities related to the year ended December 31, 2015 was $226 million.North American Consumer Packaging business of $40 million and $111 million for 2018 and 2017 is included in Cash


Provided By (Used For) Investing Activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows.



TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS


Temporary investments with an original maturity of three months or less are treated as cash equivalents and are stated at cost. Temporary investments totaled $661$335 million and $757$402 million at December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, respectively.


ACCOUNTS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE


Accounts and notes receivable, net, of allowances, by classification were:
In millions at December 3120192018
Accounts and notes receivable:  
Trade$3,020
$3,249
Other260
272
Total$3,280
$3,521

In millions at December 3120172016
Accounts and notes receivable:  
Trade$3,017
$2,612
Other270
240
Total$3,287
$2,852


INVENTORIES
In millions at December 3120192018
Raw materials$298
$260
Finished pulp, paper and packaging products1,192
1,241
Operating supplies659
641
Other59
99
Inventories$2,208
$2,241

In millions at December 3120172016
Raw materials$274
$286
Finished pulp, paper and packaging products1,337
1,231
Operating supplies615
616
Other87
100
Inventories$2,313
$2,233


The last-in, first-out inventory method is used to value most of International Paper’s U.S. inventories. Approximately 71% of total raw materials and finished products inventories were valued using this method. The last-in, first-out inventory reserve was $293$295 million and $290$329 million at December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, respectively.


PLANTS, PROPERTIES AND EQUIPMENT
In millions at December 3120192018
Pulp, paper and packaging facilities$32,292
$32,329
Other properties and equipment1,224
1,232
Gross cost33,516
33,561
Less: Accumulated depreciation20,512
20,494
Plants, properties and equipment, net$13,004
$13,067

In millions at December 3120172016
Pulp, paper and packaging facilities$32,523
$30,943
Other properties and equipment1,291
1,308
Gross cost33,814
32,251
Less: Accumulated depreciation20,549
19,248
Plants, properties and equipment, net$13,265
$13,003
Non-cash additions to plants, property and equipment included within accounts payable were $164 million, $135 million and $275 million at December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.  

Annual straight-line depreciable lives generally are, for buildings - 20 to 40 years, and for machinery and equipment - 3 to 20 years. Depreciation expense was $1.2 billion $1.0 billion and $1.1 billion for the each of the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162019, 2018 and 2015,2017, respectively. Cost of products sold excludes depreciation and amortization expense.





55


INTEREST


Interest payments of $782$754 million, $682$772 million and $680$782 million were made during the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162019, 2018 and 2015,2017, respectively.


Amounts related to interest were as follows:
In millions201920182017
Interest expense$706
$734
$758
Interest income215
198
186
Capitalized interest costs29
30
25

In millions201720162015
Interest expense (a)$758
$695
$644
Interest income (a)186
175
89
Capitalized interest costs25
28
25


(a)
Interest expense and interest income exclude approximately $25 million in 2015 related to investments in and borrowings from variable interest entities for which the Company has a legal right of offset (see Note 12).
ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS


At December 31, 20172019 and December 31, 2016,2018, we had recorded liabilities of $86$96 million and $83$86 million, respectively, related to asset retirement obligations.


International Paper leases various real estate, including certain operating facilities, warehouses, office space and land. The Company also leases material handling equipment, vehicles, and certain other equipment. The Company's leases have remaining lease terms of one year to 97 years.

COMPONENTS OF LEASE EXPENSE
In millionsDecember 31, 2019
Operating lease costs, net$132
Variable lease costs70
Short-term lease costs, net59
Finance lease cost 
Amortization of lease assets12
Interest on lease liabilities5
Total lease cost, net$278












SUPPLEMENTAL BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION RELATED TO LEASES
In millionsClassificationDecember 31, 2019
Assets  
Operating lease assetsRight of use assets$434
Finance lease assetsPlants, properties and equipment, net (a)103
Total leased assets $537
Liabilities  
Current  
OperatingOther current liabilities$134
FinanceNotes payable and current maturities of long-term debt12
Noncurrent  
OperatingLong-term lease obligations304
FinanceLong-term debt88
Total lease liabilities $538

(a) Finance leases are recorded net of accumulated amortization of $40 million.

LEASE TERM AND DISCOUNT RATE
In millionsDecember 31, 2019
Weighted average remaining lease term (years)
Operating leases9.8 years
Finance leases10.9 years
Weighted average discount rate
Operating leases3.06%
Finance leases4.69%


SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION RELATED TO LEASES
In millionsDecember 31, 2019
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities 
Operating cash flows related to operating leases$147
Operating cash flows related to financing leases5
Financing cash flows related to finance leases9
  
Right of use assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities 
Operating leases162
Finance leases11









MATURITY OF LEASE LIABILITIES
In millionsOperating LeasesFinancing LeasesTotal
2020$147
$16
$163
2021110
15
125
202275
14
89
202342
13
55
202424
10
34
Thereafter103
66
169
Total lease payments501
134
635
Less imputed interest63
34
97
Present value of lease liabilities$438
$100
$538


At December 31, 2018, total future minimum commitments under existing non-cancelable operating leases were as follows:
In millions20192020202120222023Thereafter
Lease obligations160
125
77
49
28
118



The Company accounts for the following investments under the equity method of accounting.

GRAPHIC PACKAGING INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS, LLC

On January 1, 2018, the Company completed the transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business, which includes its North American Coated Paperboard and Foodservice businesses, to Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC (GPIP), a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company, in exchange for a 20.5% ownership interest in GPIP. GPIP subsequently transferred the North American Consumer Packaging business to Graphic Packaging International, LLC (GPI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of GPIP that holds the assets of the combined business. As of December 31, 2019, the Company's ownership percentage in GPIP was 21.6%. The Company recorded equity earnings, net of taxes, of $46 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018. The Company received cash dividends from GPIP of $27 million and $25 million in 2019 and 2018, respectively. At both December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company's investment in GPIP was $1.1 billion, which was $529 million and $562 million more than the Company's proportionate share of the entity's underlying net assets at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The difference primarily relates to the basis difference between the fair value of our investment and the underlying net assets and is generally amortized in equity earnings over a period consistent with the underlying long-lived assets.

Management engaged a third party to assist with determining the fair value of the intangible assets and the fixed assets. The fair value of the intangible assets were calculated using income and market approaches and the fair value of the fixed assets was calculated using a cost approach. The fair values were determined using inputs classified as Level 2 and Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 17. The Company is party to various agreements with GPI under which it sells fiber and other products to GPI. Sales under these agreements were $274 million and $240 million for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

On January 29, 2020, the Company exchanged approximately 19.0% of the aggregate units owned by the Company for an aggregated price of $250 million. After this transaction, the Company's ownership percentage in GPIP is approximately 18.3%. The Company expects to record a gain on the exchange in the first quarter of 2020.

Summarized financial information for GPIP is presented in the following tables:

Balance Sheet
In millions2019 2018
Current assets$1,796
 $1,757
Noncurrent assets5,482
 5,292
Current liabilities1,178
 1,148
Noncurrent liabilities3,244
 3,156

Income Statement
In millions2019 2018
Net sales$6,160
 $6,023
Gross profit1,093
 946
Income from continuing operations333
 336
Net income334
 337


ILIM S.A. (Ilim)

The Company also holds a 50% equity interest in Ilim, which has subsidiaries whose primary operations are in Russia. The Company recorded equity earnings, net of taxes, of $207 million, $290 million, and $183 million
in 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively, for Ilim. Equity earnings (losses) includes an after-tax foreign exchange (loss) gain of $32 million, $(82) million, and
$15 million in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, primarily on the remeasurement of U.S. dollar-denominated net debt. The Company received cash
dividends from the joint venture of $246 million and $128 million in 2019 and 2018, respectively. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company's investment in Ilim, which is recorded in Investments in the consolidated balance sheet, was $508 million and $478 million, respectively, which was $136 million and $145 million, respectively, more than the Company's proportionate share of the joint venture's underlying net assets. The differences primarily relate to currency translation adjustments and the basis difference between the fair value of our investment at acquisition and the underlying net assets. The Company is party to a joint marketing agreement with JSC Ilim Group, a subsidiary of Ilim, under which the Company purchases, markets and sells paper produced by JSC Ilim Group. Purchases under this agreement were $215 million, $214 million and $205 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Summarized financial information for Ilim is presented in the following tables:

Balance Sheet
In millions2019 2018
Current assets$804
 $981
Noncurrent assets2,813
 1,710
Current liabilities1,015
 545
Noncurrent liabilities1,844
 1,470
Noncontrolling interests16
 11

Income Statement
In millions2019 2018 2017
Net sales$2,189
 $2,713
 $2,150
Gross profit1,025
 1,549
 1,047
Income from continuing operations438
 592
 379
Net income424
 571
 362


The audited U.S. GAAP financial statements for Ilim are included in Exhibit 99.1 to this Form 10-K.

NOTE 912 GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES


GOODWILL


The following table presents changes in the goodwill balances as allocated to each business segment for the years ended December 31, 20172019 and 2016:2018:
In millions
Industrial
Packaging
 Global Cellulose Fibers 
Printing
Papers
 Total
Balance as of December 31, 2017       
Goodwill$3,382
 $52
  $2,150
  $5,584
Accumulated impairment losses(296) 
  (1,877) (2,173)
 3,086
 52
 273
 3,411
Currency translation and other (a)(1) 
 (34) (35)
Goodwill additions/reductions(2)(b)



(2)
Balance as of December 31, 2018       
Goodwill3,379
  52
 2,116
  5,547
Accumulated impairment losses(296)  
 (1,877) (2,173)
 3,083
  52
 239
  3,374
Currency translation and other (a)
 
 (6) (6)
Goodwill additions/reductions31
(b)(c)
 (112)(d)(81)
Accumulated impairment loss additions/reductions
 (52)(e)112
(d)60
Balance as of December 31, 2019       
Goodwill3,410
 52
  1,998
  5,460
Accumulated impairment losses(296) (52)  (1,765) (2,113)
Total$3,114
 $
  $233
  $3,347

In millions
Industrial
Packaging
 Global Cellulose Fibers 
Printing
Papers
 Total
Balance as of December 31, 2015       
Goodwill$3,384
 $
  $2,124
  $5,508
Accumulated impairment losses(296) 
  (1,877) (2,173)
 3,088
 
 247
 3,335
Reclassifications and other (a)(4) 
 33
 29
Additions/reductions(5)(b)19
(c)(14)(d)
Impairment loss
 
 
 
Balance as of December 31, 2016       
Goodwill3,375
  19
 2,143
  5,537
Accumulated impairment losses(296)  
 (1,877) (2,173)
 3,079
  19
 266
  3,364
Reclassifications and other (a)3
 
 8
 11
Additions/reductions4
(e)33
(c)(1) 36
Impairment loss


 
 
Balance as of December 31, 2017       
Goodwill3,382
 52
  2,150
  5,584
Accumulated impairment losses(296) 
  (1,877) (2,173)
Total$3,086
 $52
  $273
  $3,411


(a)Represents the effects of foreign currency translations and reclassifications.
(b)Reflects a reduction from tax benefits generated by the deduction of goodwill amortization for tax purposes in the U.S.
(c)Reflects the acquisition and purchase price adjustmentsgoodwill for the acquisitions of the newly acquired pulp business.Industrial Packaging box plants in EMEA of which $28 million is considered provisional.
(d)Reflects a reduction from tax benefits generated by the deductionreclassification of India goodwill amortizationand related impairment losses to held for tax purposes in Brazil.sale prior to the sale of the business.
(e)Reflects the acquisitionimpairment of the newly acquired Moroccan box plant.Global Cellulose Fibers reporting unit.


The Company performed its annual testing of its reporting units for possible goodwill impairments by applying the qualitative assessment to its North America Industrial Packaging, European Papers, Russian Papers, and Brazilian Papers reporting units and the quantitative goodwill impairment test to its Global Cellulose Fibers and EMEA Industrial Packaging reporting units as of October 1, 2019. For the current year evaluation, the Company assessed various assumptions, events and circumstances that would have affected the estimated fair value of the reporting units under the qualitative assessment for the reporting units listed above and the results of the qualitative assessments indicated that it is not more likely than not that the fair values of its North America Industrial Packaging, European Papers, Russian Papers, and Brazilian Papers reporting units were less than their carrying values.



The company also performed the quantitative goodwill impairment test which included comparing the carrying amount of the Global Cellulose Fibers and EMEA Industrial Packaging reporting units to their estimated fair value. The Company performed the quantitative goodwill impairment test for Global Cellulose Fibers due to the reporting unit's outlook and for EMEA Industrial Packaging due to the changes in the reporting unit's asset


base as a result of strategic capital projects and acquisitions since the previous quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company calculated the estimated fair value of its Global Cellulose Fibers and EMEA Industrial Packaging reporting units using a probability-weighted approach based on discounted future cash flows, market multiples and transaction multiples. The carrying amount did not exceed the estimated fair value of the EMEA Industrial Packaging reporting unit. The carrying amount did exceed the estimated fair value of the Global Cellulose Fibers reporting unit, and it was determined that all of the goodwill in the reporting unit, totaling $52 million, was impaired. This charge is included in Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations. The decline in the fair value of Global Cellulose Fibers and resulting impairment charge was due to a change in the outlook of the Global Cellulose Fibers reporting unit's operations.

In addition, the Company considered whether there were any events or circumstances outside of the annual evaluation that would reduce the fair value of its reporting units below their carrying amounts and necessitate a goodwill impairment evaluation. In consideration of all relevant factors, there were no indicators that would





56

Table of Contentsrequire goodwill impairment subsequent to October 1, 2019.



OTHER INTANGIBLES


Identifiable intangible assets comprised the following:



2017201620192018
In millions at December 31
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Net Intangible Assets
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Net Intangible Assets
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Net Intangible Assets
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Net Intangible Assets
Customer relationships and lists$610
$247
$363
$605
$211
$394
$560
$275
$285
$542
$247
$295
Non-compete agreements72
72

69
64
5



67
67

Tradenames, patents and trademarks, and developed technology172
72
100
173
56
117
170
102
68
174
90
84
Land and water rights8
2
6
10
2
8
8
2
6
8
2
6
Software24
23
1
21
20
1
26
25
1
26
25
1
Other38
26
12
48
26
22
18
10
8
30
23
7
Total$924
$442
$482
$926
$379
$547
$782
$414
$368
$847
$454
$393


The Company recognized the following amounts as amortization expense related to intangible assets:
In millions201920182017
Amortization expense related to intangible assets$58
$59
$77

In millions201720162015
Amortization expense related to intangible assets$77
$54
$60


Based on current intangibles subject to amortization, estimated amortization expense for each of the succeeding years is as follows: 2018 – $55 million, 2019 – $52 million, 2020 – $51$50 million, 2021 – $51$48 million, 2022 – $49$46 million, 2023 – $41 million, 2024 – $41 million, and cumulatively thereafter – $217$136 million.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             


The components of International Paper’s earnings from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings by taxing jurisdiction were as follows:
In millions201920182017
Earnings (loss)   
U.S.$1,342
$1,450
$297
Non-U.S.262
331
551
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings$1,604
$1,781
$848

In millions201720162015
Earnings (loss)   
U.S.$297
$411
$1,013
Non-U.S.551
384
119
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings$848
$795
$1,132


On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("the(the Tax Act.")Act). The Tax Act makes broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code, including, but not limited to, (1) reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%; (2) requiring companies to pay a one-time deemed repatriation

transition tax (the “Transition Tax”)Transition Tax) on certain earnings of
foreign subsidiaries; (3) generally eliminating U.S. federal income taxes on dividends from foreign subsidiaries; (4) requiring a current inclusion in U.S. federal taxable income of certain earnings of controlled foreign corporations; (5) eliminating the corporate alternative minimum tax (“AMT”)(AMT) and changing how AMT
credits can be realized; (6) capital expensing; (7) eliminating the deduction on U.S. manufacturing activities; and (8) creating new limitations ondeductible interest expense and executive compensation.



The Securities Exchange Commission staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) 118 which provides guidance on accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Act. SAB 118 provides a measurement period that should not extend beyond one year from the Tax Act enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under ASC 740. In accordance with SAB 118, a company must reflect the income tax effects of those aspects of the Tax Act for which the accounting under ASC 740 is complete. To the extent that a company’s accounting for certain income tax effects of the Tax Act is incomplete but it is able to determine a reasonable estimate, it must record a provisional estimate in the financial statements. If a company cannot determine a provisional estimate to be included in the financial statements, it should continue to apply ASC 740 on the basis of the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect immediately before the enactment of the Tax Act.
In connection with our initial analysis of the impact of the Tax Act, we have recorded a provisional net tax benefit of $1.22 billion in the period ending December 31, 2017. The net tax benefit primarily consistsconsisted of a net tax benefit for the re-measurement of U.S. deferred taxes of $1.454 billion and an expense for the Transition Tax of $231 million. For various reasons that are discussed more fully below,During the period ended December 31, 2018, we have not completed our accounting forrecorded an additional net tax benefit of $36 million associated with the income taxone-time effects of the Tax Act.









57


Our accounting for the following elements of the Tax Act is incomplete. However, we were able to make reasonable estimates of those elements and, therefore, recorded provisional adjustments as follows:
Reduction of U.S. federal corporate tax rate:The Tax Act reduces the corporate tax rate to 21%, effective January 1, 2018. For certain of our deferred tax assets and liabilities, we have recorded a provisional net decrease of $1.451 billion with a corresponding adjustment to deferred income tax benefit in the same amount for the year ended December 31, 2017. While we are able to make a reasonable estimate of the impact of the reduction in the corporate rate, it may be affected by other analysis related to the Tax Act, including but not limited to, the state tax effect of adjustments made to federal temporary differences.
Deemed Repatriation Transition Tax: This is atax on previously untaxed accumulated and current earnings and profits (“E&P”) of foreign subsidiaries. To determine the amount of the transition tax, we must determine, in addition to other factors, the amount of post-1986 E&P of the relevant subsidiaries, as well as the amount of non-U.S. income taxes paid on such earnings. We are able to make a reasonable estimate of the Transition Tax and recorded a provisional Transition Tax obligation of $231 million. The provisional amount of current tax liability related to the Transition Tax recorded in Other accrued liabilities is $17 million. However, we are continuing to gather additional information, which may result in our ability to more precisely compute the amount of the Transition Tax.
Valuation Allowances: The Company has assessed whether its U.S. state and local income tax valuation allowance analysis is affected by various aspects of the Tax Act (e.g. deemed repatriation of foreign income, acceleration of cost recovery). Since, as discussed herein, the Company has recorded provisional amounts related to elements of the Tax Act, any corresponding determination of the need for or change in a valuation allowance is also provisional. For certain of our state deferred tax assets, we have recorded a net $3 million provisional decrease in the recorded valuation allowance with a corresponding adjustment to deferred income tax benefit in the same amount for the year ended December 31, 2017. While we are able to make a reasonable estimate of the impact of the Tax Act on state attributes, the resolution of, or changes from, other factors noted herein may result in changes in our recorded valuation allowance.
The Tax Act may impact decisions surrounding the Company’s permanent reinvestment assertions related to its foreign investments and could have an impact on the Company’s accounting for untaxed outside basis differences. We previously considered the earnings in our non-U.S. subsidiaries to be permanently reinvested,
and, accordingly deferred income taxes were not provided for such basis differences which totaled approximately $5.9 billion at December 31, 2016. While the transition tax resulted in a reduction in these basis differences, an actual repatriation from our non-U.S. subsidiaries could still be subject to additional taxes, including, but not limited to, foreign withholding taxes and U.S. state income taxes. In light of the Tax Act, the Company is evaluating its global cash management and non-U.S. repatriation strategy but we have yet to determine whether we plan to change our prior assertion. Accordingly, we have not recorded any deferred taxes attributable to our investments in our non-U.S. subsidiaries.

These estimates may change materially due to, among other things, further clarification of existing guidance that may be issued by U.S. taxing authorities or regulatory bodies and/or changes in interpretations and assumptions we have preliminarily made. We will continue to analyze the Tax Act to finalize its financial statement impact, including the mandatory deemed repatriation of foreign earnings, re-measurement of deferred taxes and all other provisions of the legislation and will record the effects of any changes to provisional amounts in the period we can complete our analysis or are first able to make a reasonable estimate, but no later than December 2018.
The provision (benefit) for income taxes from continuing operations (excluding noncontrolling interests) by taxing jurisdiction was as follows:
In millions201920182017
Current tax provision (benefit)   
U.S. federal$271
$227
$(73)
U.S. state and local29
37
(23)
Non-U.S.122
165
112
 $422
$429
$16
Deferred tax provision (benefit)   
U.S. federal$44
$12
$(1,150)
U.S. state and local(23)50
9
Non-U.S.191
(46)40
 $212
$16
$(1,101)
Income tax provision (benefit)$634
$445
$(1,085)
In millions201720162015
Current tax provision (benefit)   
U.S. federal$(73)$(7)$35
U.S. state and local(23)(12)3
Non-U.S.112
76
111
 $16
$57
$149
Deferred tax provision (benefit)   
U.S. federal$(1,150)$134
$306
U.S. state and local9
27
32
Non-U.S.40
(25)(70)
 $(1,101)$136
$268
Income tax provision (benefit)$(1,085)$193
$417


The Company’s deferred income tax provision (benefit) includes a $44 million benefit, a $13 million benefit and a $1.459 billion benefit a $18 million provisionfor 2019, 2018 and a $3 million provision for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, for the effect of various changes in non-U.S. and U.S. federal and state tax rates.


International Paper made income tax payments, net of refunds, of $349 million, $388 million and $7 million $90 millionin 2019, 2018 and $149 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.



58


A reconciliation of income tax expense using the statutory U.S. income tax rate compared with the actual income tax provision follows:
 
In millions201920182017
Earnings (loss) from continuing
operations before income taxes
and equity earnings
$1,604
$1,781
$848
Statutory U.S. income tax rate21%21%35 %
Tax expense (benefit) using statutory U.S. income tax rate337
374
297
State and local income taxes6
72
(7)
Impact of rate differential on non-U.S. permanent differences and earnings31
35
(36)
Foreign valuation allowance203


Tax expense (benefit) on manufacturing activities
(1)23
Non-deductible business expenses20
27
7
Non-deductible impairments31


Tax audits
28

Deemed repatriation, net of foreign tax credits1
(25)231
U.S. federal tax rate change
(13)(1,451)
Foreign derived intangible income deduction2
(25)
US tax on non-U.S. earnings (GILTI and Subpart F)36
19
44
Foreign tax credits(2)(15)(96)
General business and other tax credits(33)(26)(86)
Other, net2
(5)(11)
Income tax provision (benefit)$634
$445
$(1,085)
Effective income tax rate40%25%(128)%


In millions201720162015
Earnings (loss) from continuing
operations before income taxes
and equity earnings
$848
$795
$1,132
Statutory U.S. income tax rate35 %35%35%
Tax expense (benefit) using statutory U.S. income tax rate297
278
396
State and local income taxes(7)8
20
Tax rate and permanent differences on non-U.S. earnings(36)(26)(44)
Net U.S. tax on non-U.S. dividends44
21
12
Tax expense (benefit) on manufacturing activities23
(10)(12)
Non-deductible business expenses7
9
8
Non-deductible impairments

109
Sale of non-strategic assets
12
(61)
Tax audits
(14)
U.S. federal tax rate change(1,451)

Foreign tax credits(96)(11)
Subsidiary liquidation
(63)
Deemed repatriation, net of foreign tax credits231


General business and other tax credits(86)(15)(15)
Other, net(11)4
4
Income tax provision (benefit)$(1,085)$193
$417
Effective income tax rate(128)%24%37%

The tax effects of significant temporary differences, representing deferred income tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, were as follows:


In millions20192018
Deferred income tax assets:  
Postretirement benefit accruals$90
$89
Pension obligations421
465
Tax credits290
291
Net operating and capital loss carryforwards621
594
Compensation reserves181
191
Lease obligations106

Environmental reserves93
78
Other126
86
Gross deferred income tax assets$1,928
$1,794
Less: valuation allowance (a)(691)(441)
Net deferred income tax asset$1,237
$1,353
Deferred income tax liabilities:  
Intangibles$(152)$(152)
Investments(265)(255)
Right of use assets(106)
Plants, properties and equipment(1,866)(1,826)
Forestlands, related installment sales, and investment in subsidiary(1,407)(1,453)
Gross deferred income tax liabilities$(3,796)$(3,686)
Net deferred income tax liability$(2,559)$(2,333)

In millions20172016
Deferred income tax assets:  
Postretirement benefit accruals$102
$165
Pension obligations516
1,344
Alternative minimum and other tax credits416
270
Net operating and capital loss carryforwards665
662
Compensation reserves174
257
Other139
251
Gross deferred income tax assets2,012
2,949
Less: valuation allowance (a)(429)(403)
Net deferred income tax asset$1,583
$2,546
Deferred income tax liabilities:  
Intangibles$(139)$(231)
Plants, properties and equipment(2,000)(2,828)
Forestlands, related installment sales, and investment in subsidiary(1,454)(2,260)
Gross deferred income tax liabilities$(3,593)$(5,319)
Net deferred income tax liability$(2,010)$(2,773)


(a) The net change in the total valuation allowance for the years ended December 31, 20172019 and 20162018 was an increase of $26$250 million and a decreasean increase of $27$12 million, respectively. The net change in the current year is primarily due to tax law changes in foreign jurisdictions impacting future utilization of deferred tax assets of $203 million.


Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet under the captions Deferred charges and other assets and Deferred income taxes. There was a decrease inOf the $1.4 billion of deferred income tax assets principally relating to the U.S. tax rate change, the impact of changes in qualified pension liabilities, and the utilization of tax credits and net operating loss carryforwards. Deferred tax liabilities decreased primarily due to the U.S. tax rate change offset by tax greater than book depreciation. Of the $1.5 billionfor forestlands, related installment sales, and investment in subsidiary, deferred tax liability, $884 million is attributable to an investment in subsidiary and relates to a 2006 International Paper installment sale of forestlands and $538$485 million is attributable to a 2007 Temple-Inland installment sale of forestlands (see Note 1215).


A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162019, 2018 and 20152017 is as follows:


In millions201920182017
Balance at January 1$(220)$(188)$(98)
(Additions) reductions for tax positions related to current year(5)(7)(54)
(Additions) for tax positions related to prior years(6)(37)(40)
Reductions for tax positions related to prior years5
5
4
Settlements31
2
6
Expiration of statutes of
limitations
3
2
1
Currency translation adjustment3
3
(7)
Balance at December 31$(189)$(220)$(188)

In millions201720162015
Balance at January 1$(98)$(150)$(158)
(Additions) reductions based on tax positions related to current year(54)(4)(6)
Additions for tax positions of prior years(40)(3)(6)
Reductions for tax positions of prior years4
33
7
Settlements6
19
2
Expiration of statutes of
limitations
1
5
4
Currency translation adjustment(7)2
7
Balance at December 31$(188)$(98)$(150)


If the Company were to prevail on the unrecognized tax benefits recorded, substantially all of the balances at December 31, 2017, 20162019, 2018 and 20152017 would benefit the effective tax rate.


The Company accrues interest on unrecognized tax benefits as a component of interest expense. Penalties, if incurred, are recognized as a component of income tax expense. The Company had approximately $17 million and $22$21 million accrued for the payment of estimated interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits at both December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, respectively.


The major jurisdictions where the Company files income tax returns are the United States, Brazil, France, Poland and Russia. Generally, tax years 2006 through 20162018 remain open and subject to examination by the relevant

59


tax authorities. The Company is typically engaged infrequently faces challenges regarding the amount of taxes due. These
challenges include positions taken by the Company related to the timing, nature, and amount of deductions
and the allocation of income among various tax examinations at any given time, both in the United States and overseas.jurisdictions. Pending audit settlements and the expiration of statute of limitations could reduce the uncertain tax positions by $5$53 million during the next twelve months. While














The Brazilian Federal Revenue Service has challenged the deductibility of goodwill amortization generated in a 2007 acquisition by International Paper do Brasil Ltda., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. The Company received assessments for the tax years 2007-2015 totaling approximately $146 million in tax, and $387 million in interest and penalties as of December 31, 2019 (adjusted for variation in currency exchange rates). After a previous favorable ruling challenging the basis for these assessments, we received unfavorable decisions in October 2018 and November 2019 from the Brazilian Administrative Council of Tax Appeals. The Company has appealed and intends to further appeal these and any future unfavorable administrative judgments to the Brazilian federal courts; however, this tax litigation matter may take many years to resolve. The Company believes that it is adequately accruedhas appropriately evaluated the transaction underlying these assessments, and has concluded based on Brazilian tax law, that its tax position would be sustained. The Company intends to vigorously defend its position against the current assessments and any similar assessments that may be issued for possible audit adjustments, the final resolution of these examinations cannottax years subsequent to 2015.

The Company provides for foreign withholding taxes and any applicable U.S. state income taxes on earnings intended to be determined at this time and could result in final settlements that differrepatriated from current estimates.

International Paper uses the flow-through method to account for investment tax credits earned on eligible open-loop biomass facilities and combined heat and power system expenditures. Under this method, the investment tax credits are recognized as a reduction to income tax expensenon-U.S. subsidiaries, which we believe will be limited in the year theyfuture to each year's current earnings. No provision for these taxes on approximately $2.2 billion of undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries as of December 31, 2019 has been made, as these earnings are earned rather thanconsidered indefinitely invested. Determination of the amount of taxes that might be paid on these undistributed earnings if eventually remitted in a reduction intaxable manner is not practicable.

If management decided to monetize the asset basis. The Company recorded aCompany’s foreign investments, we would recognize the tax benefit of $68 million during 2017cost related to Investment Tax Credits earned inthe excess of the book value over the tax years 2013-2017.basis of those investments. This would include foreign withholding taxes and any applicable U.S. Federal and state income taxes. Determination of the tax cost that that would be incurred upon monetization of the Company’s foreign investments is not practicable; however, we do not believe it would be material.


The following details the scheduled expiration dates of the Company’s net operating loss and income tax credit carryforwards:
In millions2020
Through
2029
2030
Through
2039
IndefiniteTotal
U.S. federal and non-U.S. NOLs$55
$48
$424
$527
State taxing jurisdiction NOLs (a)76
18

94
U.S. federal, non-
U.S. and state tax credit carryforwards (a)
160
12
118
290
U.S. federal and state capital loss carryforwards (a)



Total$291
$78
$542
$911
Less: valuation allowance (a)(198)(44)(393)(635)
Total, net$93
$34
$149
$276

In millions2018
Through
2027
2028
Through
2037
IndefiniteTotal
U.S. federal and non-U.S. NOLs$65
$2
$432
$499
State taxing jurisdiction NOLs147
68

215
U.S. federal, non-
U.S. and state tax credit carryforwards
199
18
269
486
U.S. federal and state capital loss carryforwards2


2
Total$413
$88
$701
$1,202


(a) State amounts are presented net of federal benefit.



OPERATING LEASES

Certain property, machinery and equipment are leased under cancelable and non-cancelable agreements.

At December 31, 2017, total future minimum commitments under existing non-cancelable operating leases were as follows:
In millions20182019202020212022Thereafter
Lease obligations$130
$102
$77
$53
$37
$141

Rent expense was $157 million, $150 million and $157 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.




GUARANTEES


In connection with sales of businesses, property, equipment, forestlands and other assets, International Paper commonly makes representations and warranties relating to such businesses or assets, and may agree to indemnify buyers with respect to tax and environmental liabilities, breaches of representations and warranties, and other matters. Where liabilities for such matters are determined to be probable and subject to reasonable estimation,reasonably estimable, accrued liabilities are recorded at the time of sale as a cost of the transaction.


ENVIRONMENTAL AND LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Environmental


International Paper has been named as a potentially responsible party (PRP) in environmental remediation actions under various federal and state laws, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA). Many of these proceedings involve the cleanup of hazardous substances at large commercial landfills that received











waste from many different sources. While joint and several liability is authorized under CERCLA and equivalent state laws, as a practical matter, liability for CERCLA cleanups is typically allocated among the many PRPs. There are other remediation costs typically associated with the cleanup of hazardous substances at the Company’s current, closed or formerly-owned facilities, and recorded as liabilities in the balance sheet.


Remediation costs are recorded in the consolidated financial statements when they become probable and reasonably estimable. International Paper has estimated the probable liability associated with these environmental remediation matters, including those described herein, to be approximately $128$157 million ($141166 million undiscounted) in the aggregate as of December 31, 2017.2019. Other than as described below, completion of required environmental remedial actions is not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
Cass Lake: One of the matters included above arises out of a closed wood-treating facility located in Cass Lake, Minnesota. In June 2011, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) selected and published a proposed soil remedy at the site, with anthe estimated cost of $46 million. Thewhich is reflected in the overall remediation reserve for the site is currently $47of $46 million to address the selectionas of an alternative for the soil remediation component of the overall site remedy, which includes the ongoing groundwater remedy.December 31, 2019. In October 2011, the EPA released a public statement indicating that the final soil remedy decision would be delayed. In March 2016,June 2019, the EPA issued a revised proposed plan concerning clean-up standards at a portion of the site, the estimated cost of which is included within the reserve referenced above. In October 2012, the Natural Resource Trustees for this site provided notice to International Paper and other

60


PRPs of their intent to perform a Natural Resource Damage Assessment. It is premature to predict the outcome of the assessment or to estimate a loss or range of loss, if any, in excess of the liability noted above which may be incurred.

Kalamazoo River: The Company is a PRP with respect to the Allied Paper, Inc./Portage Creek/Kalamazoo River Superfund Site in Michigan. The EPA asserts that the site is contaminated by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) primarily as a result of discharges from various paper mills located along the Kalamazoo River, including a paper mill (the Allied Paper Mill) formerly owned by St. Regis Paper Company (St. Regis). The Company is a successor in interest to St. Regis.


Operable Unit 5, Area 1: In March 2016, the Company and other PRPs received a special notice letter from the EPA (i) inviting participation in implementing a remedy for a portion of the site known as Operable Unit 5, Area 1, and (ii) demanding reimbursement of EPA past costs totaling $37 million, including $19 million in past costs previously demanded by the
EPA. The Company responded to the special notice letter. In December 2016, the EPA issued a unilateral administrative order to the Company and other PRPs to perform the remedy. The unilateral administrative order has not yet become effective and the Company is evaluating its response.

In April 2016, the EPA issued a separate unilateral administrative order to the Company and certain other PRPs for a time-critical removal action (TCRA) of PCB-contaminated sediments from a different portion of the site. The Company responded to the unilateral administrative order, and agreed along with two other partiesagreeing to comply with the order subject to its sufficient cause defenses.


Operable Unit 5, Area 2: In September 2017, the EPA issued a Record of Decision selecting the final remedy for a portion of the site known as Operable Unit 5, Area 2, but has not yet issued a special notice letter for implementing the remedy.

Operable Unit 1: In October 2016, the Company and another PRP received a special notice letter from the EPA inviting participation in the remedial design component of the landfill remedy for the Allied Paper Mill.Mill, which is also known as Operable Unit 1. The recordRecord of decisionDecision establishing the final landfill remedy for the Allied Paper Mill was issued by the EPA in September 2016. TheIn February 2017, the EPA informed the Company respondedthat it would make other arrangements for the performance of the remedial design.

As noted below, the Company is involved in allocation/apportionment litigation with regard to the Allied Paper Mill specialsite. In addition, in December 2019, the United States published notice letter in late December 2016.the Federal Register of a proposed consent decree with NCR Corporation (one of the parties to the allocation/apportionment litigation described below), the State of Michigan and natural resource trustees under which NCR would make payments of more than $100 million and perform work at the Site at an estimated cost of $135.7 million. The public comment period with respect to the proposed consent decree closes in February 2020.


The Company’s CERCLA liability has not been finally determined with respect to these or any other portions of the site, and except as noted above, the Company has declined to perform any work or reimburse the EPA at this time. As noted below, the Company is involved in allocation/apportionment litigation with regard to the site. Accordingly, it is premature to predict the outcome or estimate our maximum reasonably possible loss or range of loss with respect to this site. However, we do not believeWe have a recorded liability for future remediation costs at the site that any material loss is probable.are probable and reasonably estimable, and it remains reasonably possible that additional losses in excess of this recorded liability could be material.


The Company was named as a defendant by Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP, Fort James Corporation and Georgia Pacific LLC in a contribution and cost recovery action for alleged pollution at the site. NCR Corporation and Weyerhaeuser Company are also named as defendants in the suit. The suit seeks contribution under CERCLA for costs purportedly expended by plaintiffs ($79 million as of the filing of the complaint) and for future remediation costs. The suit alleges that a mill, duringIn June

2018, the time it was allegedly ownedCourt issued its Final Judgment and operated by St. Regis, discharged PCB contaminated solidsOrder, which fixed the past cost amount at approximately $50 million (plus interest to be determined) and paper residuals resulting from paper de-inking and recycling. NCR Corporation and Weyerhaeuser Company are also named as defendants in the suit. In mid-2011, the suit was transferred from the District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsinallocated to the District CourtCompany a 15% share of responsibility for the Western District of Michigan. The trial of the initial liability phase took place in February 2013. Weyerhaeuser conceded prior to trial that it was a liable party with respect to the site. In September 2013, an opinion and order was issued in the suit. The order concluded that the Company (as the successor to St. Regis) was not an “operator,” but was an “owner,” of the mill at issue during a portion of the relevant period and is therefore liable under CERCLA. The order also determined that NCR is a liable party as an "arranger for disposal" of PCBs in waste paper that was de-inked and recycled by mills along the Kalamazoo River. The order did not address the Company's responsibility, if any, forthose past or future costs. The parties’ responsibility, including that of the Company, was the subject of a second trial, which was concluded in late 2015. A decision hasCourt did not been rendered and it is unclear to what extent the Court will address responsibility for future costs in its decision. In July 2018, the Company and each of the other parties filed notices appealing the Final Judgment and prior orders incorporated into that decision. We are unable to predictJudgment. The proposed consent decree with NCR described above, if entered, would result in the outcome or estimate our maximum reasonably possible loss. However, we do not believe that any material loss is probable.termination of NCR’s involvement in the appeal.
Harris County: International Paper and McGinnis Industrial Maintenance Corporation (MIMC), a subsidiary of Waste Management, Inc. (WMI), are PRPs at the San Jacinto River Waste Pits Superfund Site in Harris County, Texas. The PRPs have been actively participating in the activities at the site and share the costs of these activities. In September 2016, the EPA issued a proposed remedial action plan (PRAP) for the site, which identified the preferred remedy as the removal of the contaminated material currently protected by an armored cap. In addition, the EPA selected a preferred remedy for the separate southern impoundment that requires offsite disposal. In January 2017, the PRPs submitted comments on the PRAP.
On October 11, 2017, the EPA issued a Record of Decision (ROD) selecting the final remedy for the site: removal and relocation of the waste material from both the northern and southern impoundments. The EPA did not specify the methods or practices needed to perform this work. While the EPA’s selected remedy was accompanied by a cost estimate of approximately $115

61


million ($105 million for the northern impoundment, and $10 million for the southern impoundment), we do not believe that estimate provides a reasonable basis for accrual under GAAP because the estimate was based on a technological method for performing the work that we believe is not feasible. On October 25, 2017,feasible with respect to the PRPs received a letter from the EPA inviting participation in the remedial design component of the EPA’s selected remedy for the site, and the Company plans to participate in this remedial design process to determine if and how the remedy can be accomplished. We expect this process will include additional studies to determine feasible alternatives and costs to complete this final remedy, and we have accrued reasonably estimable costs related to this process.northern impoundment. Subsequent to the issuance of the ROD, there have been severalnumerous meetings between the EPA and the PRPs, and the Company anticipates workingcontinues to work with the EPA and otherMIMC/WMI to develop the remedial design.
To this end, in April 2018, the PRPs entered into an Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) with the EPA, agreeing to work together to develop the remedial design includingover the subsequent 29 months. The AOC does not include any agreement to perform waste removal or other construction activity at the site. Rather, it involves adaptive management techniques and a predesignpre-design investigation, expected to commence in the first quarter of 2018. The objectives of the predesign investigationwhich include filling data gaps (including but not limited to post-Hurricane Harvey technical data generated prior to the ROD and not incorporated into the selected remedy), refining areas and volumes of materials to be addressed, determining
if thean excavation remedy is able to be implemented in a manner protective of human health and the environment, and investigating potential impacts of remediation activities to infrastructure in the vicinity. TheIn October 2019, the PRPs received a special notice letter from the EPA (i) inviting participation in implementing the remedy described in the ROD, and (ii) demanding reimbursement of EPA’s past costs, for which we have accrued our portion as of December 31, 2019. In December 2019, the PRPs each responded to the special notice letter. In its response, the Company has identified a number oftook the position that the special notice letter was premature and should be withdrawn, given concerns and uncertainties regarding the implementability and constructability of the remedy described in the ROD.
The Company’s response to the special notice letter was consistent with concerns and uncertainties it has raised since the ROD was issued regarding the remedy described in the ROD and regarding the EPA’s estimates for the costs and time required to implement the selected remedy.remedy for the northern impoundment. The Company has determined, however, that even if the ROD cannot be implemented, a sheet pile "engineered barrier" can be constructed, which would enhance the existing remedy for the northern impoundment and could also be used should the ROD be determined to be feasible and implementable. In the third quarter of 2018, we increased our recorded liability accordingly to reflect the estimated cost of constructing this barrier. In December 2019, certain pre-design investigation results indicated that dry excavation of the southern impoundment as required by the ROD is feasible, and we increased our recorded liability accordingly to reflect the estimated cost of implementing this remedy for the southern impoundment. Because of ongoing questions regarding cost effectiveness, technical feasibility, timing and other technical data, however, it iscontinues to be uncertain how the ROD will be implemented.implemented for the northern impoundment. Consequently, while additional losses in excess of our recorded liability are probable as a result of the selected remedy, we are currently unable to determinereasonably estimate any further adjustment to our immaterial recorded liability or any loss or range of loss in excess of such liability. It remains reasonably possible that additional losses could be material as the remedial design process with the EPA continues over the coming quarters.
International Paper and MIMC/WMI are also defending an additionala lawsuit related to the site brought by approximately 600 individuals who allege property damage and personal injury. Because this caseIn the first quarter of 2020, the Company resolved a significant number of these plaintiffs’ claims, and we do not believe a material loss is still inreasonably possible with respect to the discovery phase, it is prematureremaining plaintiffs’ claims, whether they are settled or litigated to predict the outcome or to estimate a loss or range of loss, in any, which may be incurred.verdict.


Antitrust
Containerboard: In June 2016, a lawsuit captioned Ashley Furniture Indus., Inc. v. Packaging Corporation of America (W.D. Wis.), was filed in federal court in Wisconsin against ten defendants, including the Company, Temple-Inland and Weyerhaeuser Company. The Ashley Furniture lawsuit closely tracks the allegations found in the now-settled Kleen Products
litigation, alleging a practically identical civil violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Act (in particular, that defendants conspired to limit the supply and thereby increase prices of containerboard products), but also asserts Wisconsin state antitrust claims. In January 2011, International Paper was named as a defendant in a lawsuit filed in state court in Cocke County, Tennessee alleging that International Paper violated Tennessee law by conspiring to limit the supply and fix the prices of containerboard from mid-2005 to the present. PlaintiffsThis lawsuit has been dismissed for failure to prosecute and is no longer pending.
Italy: In March 2017, the Italian Competition Authority (ICA) commenced an investigation into the Italian packaging industry to determine whether producers of corrugated sheets and boxes violated the applicable European competition law. In April 2019, the ICA concluded its investigation and issued initial findings alleging that over 30 producers, including our Italian packaging subsidiary (IP Italy), improperly coordinated the production and sale of corrugated sheets and boxes. On August 6, 2019, the ICA issued its decision and assessed IP Italy a fine of €29 million (approximately $32 million at current exchange rates) which was recorded in the state court action seek certificationthird quarter of a class of Tennessee indirect purchasers of containerboard products, damages and costs, including attorneys' fees. No class certification materials have been filed to date2019. This charge is included in the Tennessee action.

The Company disputes the allegations madeAntitrust fines and settlements line item in the Ashley Furniture and Tennessee lawsuits and is vigorously defending each. At this time, however, because the actions are in a preliminary stage,accompanying consolidated statement of operations. However, we are unablevigorously appealing this decision of the ICA to predict an outcome or estimate a range of reasonably possible loss.the Italian courts and have numerous and strong bases for our appeal.


Contract
Signature: In August 2014, a lawsuit captioned Signature Industrial Services LLC et al. v. International Paper Company was filed in state court in Texas. The Signature lawsuit arises out of approximately $1 million in disputed invoices related to the installation of new equipment at the Company's Orange, Texas mill. In addition to the invoices in dispute, Signature and its president allege consequential damages arising from the Company's nonpayment of those invoices. The lawsuit was tried before a jury in Beaumont, Texas, in May 2017. On June 1, 2017, the jury returned a verdict awarding approximately $125 million in damages to the plaintiffs. The Court issued a judgment on December 14, 2017, awarding the plaintiffs a total of approximately $137 million in actual and consequential damages, fees, costs and pre-judgment interest, and awarding post-judgment interest. The judgment will not be final until post-trial motions are decided, and the Company will appeal the final judgment thereafter.has appealed this judgment. The Company has presented in its briefing numerous and strong bases for appeal, and we believe we will prevail on appeal. Because post-trialthe appellate proceedings are in a preliminary stage,ongoing, we are unable to estimate a range of reasonably possible loss, but we expect the amount of any loss to be immaterial.


Taxes Other Than Payroll and Income Taxes

In 2017, the Brazilian Federal Supreme Court decided that the state value-added tax (VAT) should not be
included in the basis of federal VAT calculations.  In 2018 and 2019, the Brazilian tax authorities published both an internal consultation and a normative ruling with a narrow interpretation of the effects of the case.  We have determined that any related federal VAT refunds should be recognized when they are both probable and reasonably estimable.  Based upon the best information available to us, we have determined that the amount of refund that is probable of being realized is limited to that determined by the tax authorities’ narrow interpretation, for which we have recognized a receivable of $6 million as of December 31, 2019. Upcoming court decisions and guidance from the tax authorities could expand the scope of the federal VAT refunds.

General


The Company is involved in various other inquiries, administrative proceedings and litigation relating to environmental and safety matters, personal injury, product liability, labor and employment, contracts, sales of property, intellectual property, tax and other matters, some of which allege substantial monetary damages. While any proceeding or litigation hasSee Note 13 for details regarding a tax matter. Assessments of lawsuits and claims can involve a series of complex judgments about future events, can rely heavily on estimates and assumptions, and are otherwise subject to significant uncertainties. As a result, there can be no certainty that the elementCompany will not ultimately incur charges in excess of uncertainty, thepresently recorded liabilities. The Company believes that loss contingencies arising from pending matters, including the outcome of any of these

62


lawsuits or claims that are pending or threatened or all of them combined (other than those that cannot be assessed due to their preliminary nature)matters described herein, will not have a material effect on itsthe consolidated financial statements.

position or liquidity of the Company. However, in light of the inherent uncertainties involved in pending or threatened legal matters, some of which are beyond the Company’s control, and the large or indeterminate damages sought in some of these matters, a future adverse ruling, settlement, unfavorable development, or increase in accruals with respect to these matters could result in future charges that could be material to the Company’s results of operations or cash flows in any particular reporting period.



In connection with the 2006 sale of approximately 5.6 million acres of forestlands, International Paper received installment notes (the Timber Notes) totaling approximately $4.8 billion. The Timber Notes, which do not require principal payments prior to their maturity are supported by irrevocable letters of credit obtained by the buyers of the forestlands.


The Timber Notes were used as collateral for borrowings from third party lenders, which effectively monetized the Timber Notes through the creation of newly formed special purposes entities (the Entities). The monetization structure preserved the $1.4 billion tax deferral that resulted from the 2006 forestlands sales. As a result of tax reform legislation in the fourth quarter of 2017, described in Note 10 Income Taxes,

December 31, 2019, this deferred tax liability was remeasured to be $884 million.


During 2015, International Paper initiated a series of actions in order to extend the 2006 monetization structure and maintain the long-term nature of the $884 million deferred tax liability.  International Paper acquired the Class A interests in the Investor Entities from a third party for $198 million in cash. As a result, International Paper became the owner of all of the Class A and Class B interests in the Entities and became the primary beneficiary of the Entities. The assets and liabilities of the Entities, primarily consisting of the Timber Notes and third party bank loans, were recorded at fair value as of the acquisition date of the Class A interests.  The Entities, with assets and liabilities primarily consisting of the Timber Notes and third-party bank loans (the Extension Loans), were restructured which resulted in the formation of wholly-owned, bankruptcy-remote special purpose entities (the 2015 Financing Entities) during the third quarter of 2015. Also, during the third quarter of 2015, the 2015 Financing Entities used $630 million in cash to pay down a portion of the third party bank loans and refinanced approximately $4.2 billion of those loans on nonrecourse terms (the 2015 Refinance Loans).


During the fourth quarter of 2015, International Paper extended the maturity date on the Timber Notes for an additional five years. The Timber Notes are shown in Financial assets of special purposevariable interest entities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and mature in August 2021 unless extended for an additional five years. These notes, which do not require principal payments prior to their maturity, are supported by approximately $4.8 billion of irrevocable letters of credit. In addition,

The Extension Loans are shown in Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities on the Company extinguished the 2015 Refinance Loans scheduled toaccompanying consolidated balance sheet and mature in May 2016 and entered into new
nonrecourse third partythe fourth quarter of 2020. These bank loans, totaling approximately $4.2 billion, (the Extension Loans).are nonrecourse to the Company, and are secured by approximately $4.8 billion of Timber Notes, the irrevocable letters of credit supporting the Timber Notes and approximately $150 million of International Paper debt obligations. The $150 million of International Paper debt obligations are eliminated in the consolidation of the 2015 Financing Entities and are not reflected in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. Provisions of loan agreements related to approximately $1.1 billion of the Extension Loans require the bank issuing letters of credit supporting the Timber Notes pledged as collateral to maintain a credit rating at or above a specified threshold. In the event the credit rating of the letter of credit bank is downgraded below the specified threshold, the letters of credit must be replaced within 60 days with letters of credit from a qualifying financial institution. The Extension Loans are shown in Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and mature in the fourth quarter of 2020. The extinguishment of the 2015 Refinance Loans of approximately $4.2 billion and the issuance of the Extension Loans of approximately $4.2 billion are shown as part of reductions of debt and issuances of debt, respectively, in the financing activities of the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2015.


The Extension Loans are nonrecourse to the Company, and are secured by approximately $4.8 billion of Timber Notes, the irrevocable letters of credit supporting the Timber Notes and approximately $150 million of International Paper debt obligations. The $150 million of International Paper debt obligations are eliminated in the consolidation of the 2015 Financing Entities and are not reflected in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.

The transactions described in these paragraphs result in continued long-term classification of the $884 million deferred tax liability related to the 2006 forestlands sale.

As of December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, the fair value of the Timber Notes was $4.8$4.9 billion and $4.7 billion, respectively, and the fair value of the Extension Loans was $4.3 billion and $4.2 billion for both the years ended 20172019 and 2016.2018. The Timber Notes and Extension Loans are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 14.17.


Activity between the Company and the 2015 Financing Entities (the Entities prior to the purchase of the Class A interest discussed above) was as follows: 
In millions201920182017
Revenue (a)$95
$95
$95
Expense (a)128
128
128
Cash receipts (b)95
95
95
Cash payments (c)128
128
128
In millions201720162015
Revenue (a)$95
$95
$43
Expense (a)128
128
81
Cash receipts (b)95
77
21
Cash payments (c)128
98
71


(a)The netrevenue and expense related to the Company’s interestare included in the Entities is includedInterest expense, net in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations, as International Paper has and intends to effect its legal right to offset as discussed above. After formation of the 2015 Financing Entities, the revenue andoperations.

63


expense are included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.
(b)The cash receipts are equity distributions from the Entities to International Paper prior to the formation of the 2015 Financing Entities. After formation of the 2015 Financing Entities, cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purposevariable interest entities.
(c)The cash payments are interest payments on the associated debt obligations discussed above. After formation of the 2015 Financing Entities, the payments represent interest paid on NonrecourseCurrent nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purposevariable interest entities.


In connection with the acquisition of Temple-Inland in February 2012, two special purpose entities became wholly-owned subsidiaries of International Paper.

The use of the two wholly-owned special purpose entities discussed below preserved the $831 million tax deferral that resulted from the 2007 Temple-Inland timberlands sales. As a result of tax reform legislation in the fourth quarter of 2017, described in Note 10 Income Taxes,December 31, 2019, this deferred tax liability was remeasured to be $538$485 million, which will be settled with the maturity of the notes in 2027.


In October 2007, Temple-Inland sold 1.55 million acres of timberland for $2.4 billion. The total consideration consisted almost entirely of notes due in 2027 issued by the buyer of the timberland, which Temple-Inland contributed to two wholly-owned, bankruptcy-remote special purpose entities. The notes are shown in Financial assets of special purposevariable interest entities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and are supported by $2.4 billion of irrevocable letters of credit issued by three banks, which are required to maintain minimum credit ratings on their long-term debt. As of December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, the fair value of the notes was $2.3 billion and $2.2$2.2 billion,, respectively. These notes are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 1417.


In December 2007, Temple-Inland's two wholly-owned special purpose entities borrowed $2.1 billion which is shown in NonrecourseLong-term nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purposevariable interest entities. The loans are repayable in 2027 and are secured only by the $2.4 billion of notes and the irrevocable letters of credit securing the notes, and are nonrecourse to us. The loan agreements provide
that if a credit rating of any of the banks issuing the letters of credit is downgraded below the specified threshold, the letters of credit issued by that bank must be replaced within 30 days with letters of credit from another qualifying financial institution. As of December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, the fair value of this debt was $2.1 billion for both the years ended 2017 and 2016.$2.0 billion, respectively. This debt is classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 1417.


Activity between the Company and the 2007 financing entities was as follows:
In millions201720162015201920182017
Revenue (a)$49
$37
$27
$79
$72
$49
Expense (b)48
37
27
76
67
48
Cash receipts (c)28
15
7
62
48
28
Cash payments (d)39
27
18
69
57
39


(a)The revenue is included in Interest expense, net, in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations and includes approximately $19 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162019, 2018 and 2015,2017, respectively, of accretion income for the amortization of the purchase accounting adjustment on the Financial assets of special purposevariable interest entities.
(b) The expense is included in Interest expense, net, in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations and includes approximately $7 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162019, 2018 and 2015,2017, respectively, of accretion expense for the amortization of the purchase accounting adjustment on the NonrecourseLong-term nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purposevariable interest entities.
(c) The cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.
(d) The cash payments are interest paid on Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.


In 2017, International Paper issued $1.0 billion of 4.35% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2048. The proceeds from this offering, together with a combination of available cash and other borrowings, were used
Amounts related to make a $1.25 billion voluntary cash contribution to the Company's pension plan. In December 2017, International Paper received $660 million in cash proceeds from a new loan entered into as part of the transfer of the North American Consumer Packaging business to a subsidiary of Graphic Packing Holding Company discussed in Note 7. The Company used the cash proceeds, together with available cash, to pay down existing debt of approximately $900 million of notes with interest rates ranging from 1.92% to 9.38% and original maturities from 2018 to 2021.  Pre-tax early debt retirement costs of $83 million related toextinguishment during the debt repayments, including $82 million of cash premiums, are included in Restructuring and other charges in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations for the yearyears ended December 31, 2017. The $660 million term loan was subsequently assumed by Graphic Packaging International, LLC on January 1, 2019, 2018 and is classified2017 were as Liabilities held for sale at December 31, 2017, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.follows:
In 2016, International Paper issued $1.1 billion of 3.00% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2027, and $1.2 billion of 4.40% senior unsecured notes with a maturity date in 2047. In addition, the Company repaid approximately $266 million of notes with an interest rate of 7.95% and an original maturity of 2018. Pre-tax early debt retirement costs of $29 million related to the debt repayments, including $31 million of cash premiums, are included in Restructuring and other charges in the

In millions201920182017
Early debt reductions (a)$614
$780
$993
Pre-tax early debt extinguishment costs (b)21
10
83
64


accompanying consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016.
(a)
Reductions related to notes with interest rates ranging from 1.57% to 9.50% with original maturities from 2018 to 2048 for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017.
(b)Amounts are included in Restructuring and other charges in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
In June 2016, International Paper entered into a2018, the borrowing capacity of the commercial paper program with a borrowing capacity ofwas increased from $750 million.million to $1.0 billion. Under the terms of the program, individual maturities on borrowings may vary, but not exceed one year from the date of issue. Interest bearing notes may be issued either as fixed notes or floating rate notes. As of December 31, 2017,2019 and 2018, the Company had $180$30 million and $465 million, respectively, outstanding under this program.


Amounts related to early
A summary of long-term debt extinguishment during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:
In millions201720162015
Debt reductions (a)$993
$266
$2,151
Pre-tax early debt extinguishment costs (b)83
29
207
In millions at December 3120192018
7.500% notes – due 2021$406
$406
4.750% notes – due 2022
355
6.875% notes – due 202394
94
3.650% notes – due 2024658
676
7.350% notes – due 202544
44
7.750% notes – due 202531
31
3.800% notes – due 2026645
669
7.200% notes – due 202658
58
6.400% notes – due 20265
5
3.000% notes – due 2027803
939
7.150% notes – due 20277
7
3.550% notes – due 2029200

6.875% notes – due 202937
37
5.000% notes – due 2035600
600
6.650% notes – due 20374
4
8.700% notes – due 2038265
265
7.300% notes – due 2039722
722
6.000% notes – due 2041585
585
4.800% notes – due 2044800
800
5.150% notes – due 2046700
700
4.400% notes – due 20471,158
1,200
4.350% notes – due 2048986
1,000
Floating rate notes – due 2019 – 2024 (a)339
908
Environmental and industrial development bonds – due 2019 – 2035 (b)552
556
Total principal9,699
10,661
Capitalized leases100
63
Premiums, discounts, and debt issuance costs(88)(98)
Interest rate swaps46
16
Other (c)8
12
Total (d)9,765
10,654
Less: current maturities168
639
Long-term debt$9,597
$10,015


(a)
Reductions related to notes with interest rates ranging from 1.57% to 9.38% with original maturities from 2015 to 2030 for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015. Includes the $630 million payment for a portion of the Special Purpose Entity Liability for the year ended December 31, 2015 (see Note 12 Variable Interest Entities).
(b)Amounts are included in Restructuring and other charges in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

A summary of long-term debt follows:
In millions at December 3120172016
9 3/8% note – due 2019$
$295
8.7% note – due 2038264
264
7.95% debenture – due 2018
382
7.5% note – due 2021409
598
7.3% note – due 2039721
721
6 7/8% notes – due 2023 – 2029131
131
6.65% note – due 20374
4
6 5/8% note – due 2018
72
6.4% to 7.75% debentures due 2025 – 2027143
142
6.0% note – due 2041585
585
5.00% to 5.15% notes – due 2035 – 20461,281
1,280
4.8% note – due 2044796
796
4.75% note – due 2022817
810
3.00% to 4.40% notes – due 2024 – 20484,775
3,786
Floating rate notes – due 2017 – 2025 (a)650
763
Environmental and industrial development
bonds – due 2017 – 2035 (b)
585
681
Other (c)(4)4
Total (d)11,157
11,314
Less: current maturities311
239
Long-term debt$10,846
$11,075

(a)
The weighted average interest rate on these notes was 2.6%3.1% in 20172019 and 2.2%3.5% in 20162018.
(b)
The weighted average interest rate on these bonds was 6.0%4.4% in 20172019 and 5.9%5.5% in 20162018.
(c)
Includes $707 million and $6910 million of debt issuance costsfair market value adjustments as of December 31, 20172019 and 2016,2018, respectively.
(d)
The fair market value was approximately $12.310.9 billion at December 31, 20172019 and $12.010.6 billion at December 31, 2016.2018.












Total maturities of long-term debt over the next five years are 20182020$311168 million; 20192021$126431 million; 20202022$164136 million; 20212023$440355 million; and 20222024$956803 million.


At December 31, 2017,2019, International Paper’s credit facilities (the Agreements) totaled $2.1 billion. The Agreements generally provide for interest rates at a floating rate index plus a pre-determined margin dependent upon International Paper’s credit rating. The Agreements include a $1.5 billion contractually committed bank facility that expires in December 2021, and has a facility fee of 0.15% payable annually. The liquidity facilities also include up to $600 million of uncommitted financings based on eligible receivables balances under a receivables securitization program that expires in December 2018.2020. At December 31, 2017,2019, there were no borrowings under either the bank facility or receivables securitization program.
The Company’s financial covenants require the maintenance of a minimum net worth, as defined in our debt agreements, of $9 billion and a total debt-to-capital ratio of less than 60%. Net worth is defined as the sum of common stock, paid-in capital and retained earnings, less treasury stock plus any cumulative goodwill impairment charges. The calculation also excludes accumulated other comprehensive income/loss and both the current and long-term Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Special PurposeVariable Interest Entities. The total debt-to-capital ratio is defined as total debt divided by the sum of total debt plus net worth. As of December 31, 2017,2019, we were in compliance with our debt covenants.




International Paper periodically uses derivatives and other financial instruments to hedge exposures to interest rate, commodity and currency risks. International Paper does not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes. For hedges that meet the hedge accounting criteria, International Paper, at inception, formally designates and documents the instrument as a fair value hedge, a cash flow hedge or a net investment hedge of a specific underlying exposure.


INTEREST RATE RISK MANAGEMENT


Our policy is to manage interest cost using a mixture of fixed-rate and variable-rate debt. To manage this risk in a cost-efficient manner, we enter into interest rate swaps whereby we agree to exchange with the counterparty, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed and variable interest amounts calculated by reference to a notional amount.



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Interest rate swaps that meet specific accounting criteria are accounted for as fair value or cash flow hedges. For fair value hedges, the changes in the fair value of both the hedging instruments and the underlying debt obligations are immediately recognized in interest expense. For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the changes in the fair value of the hedging instrument is reported in Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”)(AOCI) and reclassified into interest expense over the life of the underlying debt. The ineffective portion for both cash flow and fair value hedges, which is not material for any year presented, is immediately recognized in earnings.


FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK MANAGEMENT


We manufacture and sell our products and finance operations in a number of countries throughout the world and, as a result, are exposed to movements in foreign currency exchange rates. The purpose of our foreign currency hedging program is to manage the volatility associated with the changes in exchange rates.


To manage this exchange rate risk, we have historically utilized a combination of forward contracts, options and currency swaps. Contracts that qualify are designated as cash flow hedges of certain forecasted transactions denominated in foreign currencies. Thecurrencies or net investment hedges of foreign denominated subsidiaries. For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the changes in fair value of these instruments is reported in AOCI and reclassified into earnings in the same financial statement line item and in the same period or periods during which the related hedged transactions affect earnings. The ineffective portion,
which is not material for any year presented, is immediately recognized in earnings. For net investment hedges, all changes in the fair value of these instruments are recorded in AOCI, offsetting the currency translation adjustment of the related investment that is also recorded in AOCI.


The change in value of certain non-qualifying instruments used to manage foreign exchange exposure of intercompany financing transactions and certain balance sheet items subject to revaluation is immediately recognized in earnings, substantially offsetting the foreign currency mark-to-market impact of the related exposure.


COMMODITY RISK MANAGEMENT


Certain raw materials used in our production processes are subject to price volatility caused by weather, supply conditions, political and economic variables and other unpredictable factors. To manage the volatility in earnings due to price fluctuations, we may utilize swap contracts or forward purchase contracts.




Derivative instruments are reported in the consolidated balance sheets at their fair values, unless the derivative instruments qualify for the normal purchase normal sale ("NPNS")(NPNS) exception under GAAP and such exception has been elected. If the NPNS exception is elected, the fair values of such contracts are not recognized on the balance sheet.


Contracts that qualify are designated as cash flow hedges of forecasted commodity purchases. The effective portion of the changes in fair value for these instruments is reported in AOCI and reclassified into earnings in the same financial statement line item and in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings. The ineffective and non-qualifying portions, which are not material for any year presented, are immediately recognized in earnings.
The change in the fair value of certain non-qualifying instruments used to reduce commodity price volatility is immediately recognized in earnings.


The notional amounts of qualifying and non-qualifying instruments used in hedging transactions were as follows:
In millionsDecember 31, 2019December 31, 2018
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:  
Foreign exchange contracts (a)407
407
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:  
   Interest rate contracts700
700
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:  
   Interest rate contracts475

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:  
Electricity contract16
8
Foreign exchange contracts7
19
In millionsDecember 31, 2017December 31, 2016
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:  
Foreign exchange contracts (a)329
275
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:  
Electricity contract13
6
Foreign exchange contracts10
24


(a)
These contracts had maturities of two years or less as of December 31, 20172019.


The following table shows gains or losses recognized in AOCI, net of tax, related to derivative instruments:
  
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in AOCI on Derivatives
(Effective Portion)
In millions201920182017
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:   
Foreign exchange contracts$4
$(10)$15
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:   
Interest rate contracts$7
$
$

  
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in AOCI on Derivatives
(Effective Portion)
In millions201720162015
Foreign exchange contracts$15
$4
$(3)
Interest rate contracts
(10)
Total$15
$(6)$(3)


During the next 12 months, the amount of the December 31, 20172019 AOCI balance, after tax, that is expected to be reclassified to earnings is a gain of $6$3 million.






66


The amounts of gains and losses recognized in the consolidated statement of operations on qualifying and non-qualifying financial instruments used in hedging transactions were as follows:
Gain (Loss)
Reclassified from
AOCI
into Income
(Effective Portion)
 Location of Gain
(Loss)
Reclassified
from AOCI
into Income
(Effective Portion)
Gain (Loss)
Reclassified from
AOCI
into Income
(Effective Portion)
 Location of Gain
(Loss)
Reclassified
from AOCI
into Income
(Effective Portion)
In millions2017
 2016
 2015
   2019
 2018
 2017
   
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:            
Foreign exchange contracts$8
 $7
 $(12)  Cost of products sold$(3) $(1) $8
  Cost of products sold
Interest rate contracts(1) 
 
 Interest expense, net(1) (1) (1) Interest expense, net
Total$7
 $7
 $(12)  $(4) $(2) $7
  
 
  
Gain (Loss)
Recognized
in Income
  
Location of Gain (Loss)
in Consolidated Statement of
Operations
In millions2019  2018  2017    
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:          
Interest rate contracts$30
  $16
   $
  Interest expense, net
Debt(30)   (16)  
   Interest expense, net
Total$
   $
   $
    
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:          
Electricity Contracts$3
  $2
  $(10)  Cost of products sold
Foreign exchange contracts(2)  1

 
  Cost of products sold
Interest rate contracts

 

 1
(a) Interest expense, net
Total$1
  $3
   $(9)   

  
Gain (Loss)
Recognized
in Income
  
Location of Gain (Loss)
in Consolidated Statement of
Operations
In millions2017  2016  2015    
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:          
Interest rate contracts$
  $
   $3
  Interest expense, net
Debt
   
  (3)   Interest expense, net
Total$
   $
   $
    
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:          
Electricity Contracts$(10)  $
  $(7)  Cost of products sold
Foreign exchange contracts
  

 (4)  Cost of products sold
Interest rate contracts1
(a) 5
(b) 13
(c) Interest expense, net
Total$(9)  $5
   $2
   


(a)Excluding gain of $1 million related to debt reduction recorded to Restructuring and other charges.
(b)Excluding gain of $2 million related to debt reduction recorded to Restructuring and other charges.
(c)Excluding gain of $3 million related to debt reduction recorded to Restructuring and other charges.



In 2016, fully effective interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges with a notional value of $55 million were terminated early.  The resulting gain was immaterial.

Fair Value Measurements


International Paper’s financial assets and liabilities that are recorded at fair value consist of derivative contracts, including interest rate swaps, foreign currency forward contracts, options and other financial instruments that
are used to hedge exposures to interest rate, commodity and currency risks. For these financial instruments, fair value is determined at each balance sheet date using an income approach.


The guidance for fair value measurements and disclosures sets out a fair value hierarchy that groups fair value measurement inputs into the following three classifications:


Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.


Level 2: Observable market-based inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.


Level 3: Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability reflecting the reporting entity’s own assumptions or external inputs from inactive markets.

Transfers between levels are recognized at the end of the reporting period. All of International Paper’s derivative fair value measurements use Level 2 inputs.

Below is a description of the valuation calculation and the inputs used for each class of contract:











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Interest Rate Contracts


Interest rate contracts are valued using swap curves obtained from an independent market data provider. The market value of each contract is the sum of the fair value of all future interest payments between the contract counterparties, discounted to present value. The fair value of the future interest payments is determined by comparing the contract rate to the derived forward
interest rate and present valued using the appropriate derived interest rate curve.


Foreign Exchange Contracts


Foreign currency forward and option contracts are valued using standard valuation models. Significant inputs used in these standard valuation models are foreign currency forward and interest rate curves and a volatility measurement. The fair value of each contract

is present valued using the applicable interest rate. All
significant inputs are readily available in public markets, or can be derived from observable market transactions.


Electricity Contract


The Company is party to an electricity contract used to manage market fluctuations in energy pricing. The Company's electricity contract is valued using the Mid-C index forward curve obtained from the Intercontinental
Exchange. The market value of the contract is the sum
of the fair value of all future purchase payments between the contract counterparties, discounted to present value. The fair value of the future purchase payments is determined by comparing the contract price to the forward price and present valued using International Paper's cost of capital.


Since the volume and level of activity of the markets that each of the above contracts are traded in has been normal, the fair value calculations have not been adjusted for inactive markets or disorderly transactions.




The following table provides a summary of the impact of our derivative instruments in the consolidated balance sheet:


Fair Value Measurements
Level 2 – Significant Other Observable Inputs
Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities 
In millionsDecember 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments                
Foreign exchange contracts – cash flow$11
(a)$3
(b)$1
(c)$4
(c)$10

$3

$4

$10

Interest rate contracts - net investment11
 
 
 
 
Interest rate contracts – fair value47
 16
 
 
 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments11
  3
  1
  4
  68

19

4

10

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments                
Electricity contract



8
(d)2
(c)



2

4

Foreign exchange contracts
 
 1
 1
 
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
  
  8
  2
  
  
  3

5

Total derivatives$11
  $3
  $9
  $6
  $68
(a)$19
(b)$7
(c)$15
(d)


(a)Includes $10$14 million recorded in Other current assets and $1$54 million recorded in Deferred charges and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
(b)Included $2 million recorded in Other current assets and $17 million Deferred charges recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
(c)Included $6 million recorded in Other accrued liabilities and $1 million recorded in Other liabilities the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
(d)Includes $5 million recordedIncluded in Other accrued liabilities and $3 million recorded in Other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.


The above contracts are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that provide rights of offset with each counterparty when amounts are payable on the same date in the same currency or in the case of certain specified defaults. Management has made an accounting policy election to not offset the fair value of recognized derivative assets and derivative liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet. The amounts owed to the counterparties and owed to the Company are considered immaterial with respect to each counterparty and in the aggregate with all counterparties.




Credit-Risk-Related Contingent Features


International Paper evaluates credit risk by monitoring its exposure with each counterparty to ensure that exposure stays within acceptable policy limits. Credit
risk is also mitigated by contractual provisions with the majority of our banks. Certain of the contracts include a credit support annex that requires the posting of collateral by the counterparty or International Paper based on each party’s rating and level of exposure. Based on the Company’s current credit rating, the collateral threshold is generally $15 million.




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If the lower of the Company’s credit rating by Moody’s or S&P were to drop below investment grade, the Company would be required to post collateral for all of its derivatives in a net liability position, although no derivatives would terminate. As of December 31, 2017, there were no derivative instruments containing credit-risk-related contingent features in a net liability position. The fair value of derivative instruments containing credit-risk-related contingent features in a net liability position was $3$1 million as of December 31, 2016.2019. As of December 31, 2018, there were no derivative instruments containing credit-risk-

related contingent features in a net liability position. The Company was not required to post any collateral as of December 31, 20172019 or 20162018.




The authorized capital stock at both December 31, 20172019 and 20162018, consisted of 990,850,000 shares of common stock, $1 par value; 400,000 shares of cumulative $4 preferred stock, without par value (stated value $100 per share); and 8,750,000 shares of serial preferred stock, $1 par value. The serial preferred stock is issuable in one or more series by the Board of Directors without further shareholder action.


The following is a rollforward of shares of common stock for the three years ended December 31, 20172019, 20162018 and 20152017:
  Common Stock
In thousandsIssuedTreasury
Balance at January 1, 2017448,916
37,671
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
(2,577)
Repurchase of stock
881
Balance at December 31, 2017448,916
35,975
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
(1,721)
Repurchase of stock
14,056
Balance at December 31, 2018448,916
48,310
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
(3,416)
Repurchase of stock
11,906
Balance at December 31, 2019448,916
56,800
  Common Stock
In thousandsIssuedTreasury
Balance at January 1, 2015448,854
28,734
Issuance of stock for various plans, net62
(4,230)
Repurchase of stock
12,272
Balance at December 31, 2015448,916
36,776
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
(2,745)
Repurchase of stock
3,640
Balance at December 31, 2016448,916
37,671
Issuance of stock for various plans, net
(2,577)
Repurchase of stock
881
Balance at December 31, 2017448,916
35,975






International Paper sponsors and maintains the Retirement Plan of International Paper Company (the “Pension Plan”)Pension Plan), a tax-qualified defined benefit pension plan that provides retirement benefits to substantially all U.S. salaried employees and hourly employees (receiving salaried benefits) hired prior to July 1, 2004,
and substantially all other U.S. hourly union and unionnon-union employees who work at a participating business unit regardless of hire date. These employees generally are
are eligible to participate in the Pension Plan upon attaining
21 years of age and completing one year of
eligibility service. U.S. salaried employees and hourly employees (receiving salaried benefits) hired after June 30, 2004 are not eligible to participate in the Pension Plan, but receive a company contribution to
their individual savings plan accounts (see Other U.S. Plans); however, salaried employees hired by Temple Inland prior to March 1, 2007 or Weyerhaeuser Company's Cellulose Fibers division prior to December 1, 2011 also participate in the Pension Plan. The Pension Plan provides defined pension benefits based on years of credited service and either final average earnings (salaried employees and hourly employees receiving salaried benefits), hourly job rates or specified benefit rates (hourly and union employees).


The Company also has threetwo unfunded nonqualified defined benefit pension plans: a Pension Restoration Plan available to employees hired prior to July 1, 2004 that provides retirement benefits based on eligible compensation in excess of limits set by the Internal Revenue Service, and twoa supplemental retirement plansplan for senior managers (SERP), which is an alternative retirement plan for salaried employees who are senior vice presidents and above or who are designated by the chief executive officer as participants. These nonqualified plans are only funded to the extent of benefits paid, which totaled $26 million, $29 million and $40 million in 2019, $21 million2018 and $62 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and which are expected to be $3028 million in 20182020.


TheEffective January 1, 2019, the Company will freezefroze participation, including credited service and compensation, for salaried employees under the Pension Plan, the Pension Restoration Plan and the two SERP plans for all service on or after January 1, 2019.plan. This change willdoes not affect benefits accrued through December 31, 2018. For service after this date,December 31, 2018, employees affected by the freeze will receive a company contribution to their individual Retirement Savings Account contributions as described later in this Note 1619.








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Many non-U.S. employees are covered by various retirement benefit arrangements, some of which are considered to be defined benefit pension plans for accounting purposes.


















OBLIGATIONS AND FUNDED STATUS


The following table shows the changes in the benefit obligation and plan assets for 20172019 and 20162018, and the plans’ funded status.
  20192018
In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Change in projected benefit obligation:    
Benefit obligation, January 1$10,467
$215
$13,264
$247
Service cost68
5
153
5
Interest cost440
8
467
8
Curtailment
(1)

Settlements
(6)(1,653)(2)
Actuarial loss (gain)1,230
33
(1,089)(17)
Acquisitions
3


Divestitures
(1)

Plan amendments40

2

Benefits paid(546)(8)(677)(9)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate movements
5

(17)
Benefit obligation, December 31$11,699
$253
$10,467
$215
Change in plan assets:    
Fair value of plan assets, January 1$8,735
$161
$11,368
$176
Actual return on plan assets1,950
23
(332)(2)
Company contributions26
10
29
10
Benefits paid(546)(8)(677)(9)
Settlements
(6)(1,653)(2)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate movements
3

(12)
Fair value of plan assets, December 31$10,165
$183
$8,735
$161
Funded status, December 31$(1,534)$(70)$(1,732)$(54)
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet:    
Non-current asset$
$6
$
$5
Current liability(28)(3)(27)(2)
Non-current liability(1,506)(73)(1,705)(57)
 $(1,534)$(70)$(1,732)$(54)
  20172016
In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Change in projected benefit obligation:    
Benefit obligation, January 1$13,683
$219
$14,438
$204
Service cost160
4
158
4
Interest cost536
9
580
9
Settlements(1,295)(4)(1,222)(2)
Actuarial loss (gain)913
2
495
35
Acquisitions
5
1

Divestitures33



Plan amendments3


(1)
Benefits paid(769)(8)(767)(9)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate movements
20

(21)
Benefit obligation, December 31$13,264
$247
$13,683
$219
Change in plan assets:    
Fair value of plan assets, January 1$10,312
$153
$10,923
$155
Actual return on plan assets1,830
10
607
17
Company contributions1,290
10
771
8
Benefits paid(769)(8)(767)(9)
Settlements(1,295)(4)(1,222)(2)
Other
3


Effect of foreign currency exchange rate movements
12

(16)
Fair value of plan assets, December 31$11,368
$176
$10,312
$153
Funded status, December 31$(1,896)$(71)$(3,371)$(66)
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet:    
Non-current asset$
$5
$
$6
Current liability(30)(3)(40)(3)
Non-current liability(1,866)(73)(3,331)(69)
 $(1,896)$(71)$(3,371)$(66)

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income under ASC 715 (pre-tax):  
Prior service cost$88
$(1)$125
$
Prior service cost (credit)$98
$(1)$74
$(1)
Net actuarial loss3,893
67
4,757
61
2,851
75
3,140
57
$3,981
$66
$4,882
$61
$2,949
$74
$3,214
$56


The largest contributor to the actuarial loss affecting the benefit obligation was the decrease in the discount rate from 4.30% at December 31, 2018 to 3.40% at December 31, 2019. However positive asset returns
 
offset the higher obligation for a slightly improved funded position.

The components of the $901$(265) million and $5$18 million change related to U.S. plans and non-U.S. plans, respectively, in the amounts recognized in OCI during 20172019 consisted of:
In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Current year actuarial (gain) loss$(89)$19
Amortization of actuarial loss(200)(2)
Current year prior service cost40

Amortization of prior service cost(16)
Settlements/curtailments
(1)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate movements
2
 $(265)$18

In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Current year actuarial (gain) loss$(143)$2
Amortization of actuarial loss(339)(2)
Current year prior service cost3

Amortization of prior service cost(28)
Settlements(383)(1)
Curtailments(11)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate movements
6
 $(901)$5


The portion of the change in the funded status that was recognized in either net periodic benefit cost orand OCI for the U.S. plans was $(172) million, $(134) million and $(184) million $626 millionin 2019, 2018 and $505 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The portion of the change in funded status for the non-U.S. plans was $24 million, $(6) million, and $10 million $23 million,in 2019, 2018 and $8 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.


The accumulated benefit obligation at December 31, 20172019 and 20162018 was $13.211.7 billion and $13.510.4 billion, respectively, for our U.S. defined benefit plans and $230$236 million and $205200 million, respectively, at December 31, 20172019 and 20162018 for our non-U.S. defined benefit plans.


The following table summarizes information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets at December 31, 20172019 and 20162018:
  20192018
In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-U.S.
Plans
Projected benefit obligation$11,699
$225
$10,467
$187
Accumulated benefit obligation11,672
208
10,440
175
Fair value of plan assets10,165
149
8,735
128

  20172016
In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-U.S.
Plans
Projected benefit obligation$13,264
$215
$13,683
$190
Accumulated benefit obligation13,161
200
13,535
177
Fair value of plan assets11,368
139
10,312
118


ASC 715, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits” provides for delayed recognition of actuarial gains and losses, including amounts arising from changes in the estimated projected plan benefit obligation due to changes in the assumed discount rate, differences between the actual and expected return on plan assets and other assumption changes. These net gains and losses are recognized prospectively over a period that approximates the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits under the plans to the extent that they are not offset by gains in subsequent years. The estimated net loss and prior service cost that will be amortized from AOCI into net periodic pension cost for the U.S. plans during the next

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fiscal year are expected to be $327 million and $17 million, respectively.

NET PERIODIC PENSION EXPENSE


Service cost is the actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the plans’ benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the year. Interest cost represents the increase in the projected benefit obligation, which is a discounted amount, due to the passage of time. The expected return on plan assets reflects the computed amount of current-year earnings from the investment of plan assets using an estimated long-term rate of return.


Net periodic pension expense for qualified and nonqualified U.S. and non-U.S. defined benefit plans comprised the following:
  201920182017
In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Service cost$68
$5
$153
$5
$160
$4
Interest cost440
8
467
8
536
9
Expected return on plan assets(631)(10)(765)(11)(774)(11)
Actuarial loss (gain)200
2
337
2
339
2
Amortization of prior service cost16

16

28

Curtailment loss (gain) (a)
(1)

23

Settlement loss
2
424

383
1
Special termination benefits (a)



22

Net periodic pension expense$93
$6
$632
$4
$717
$5

  201720162015
In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Service cost$160
$4
$158
$4
$161
$6
Interest cost536
9
580
9
597
10
Expected return on plan assets(774)(11)(815)(10)(783)(11)
Actuarial loss / (gain)339
2
400
1
428
1
Amortization of prior service cost28

41

43

Curtailment loss / (gain) (a)23





Settlement loss383
1
445

15

Special termination benefits (a)22





Net periodic pension expense$717
$5
$809
$4
$461
$6


(a) Recorded2017 amounts were recorded in Discontinued operations in the consolidated statement of operations.
The components of net periodic pension expense other than the Service cost component are included in Non-operating pension expense in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

The decrease in 20172019 pension expense primarily reflects lower service cost due to the salaried pension freeze, lower amortization and the current year absence of a settlement losses and lower actuarial losses partiallyloss related to the October 2018 annuity purchase transaction slightly offset by lower asset returns due to the 2018 annuity purchase.

On September 25, 2018, the Company entered into an agreement with The Prudential Insurance Company of America to purchase a group annuity contract and transfer approximately $1.6 billion of International Paper's U.S. qualified pension plan projected benefit obligations, subject to customary closing conditions. The transaction closed on October 2, 2018 and was funded with pension plan assets. Under the transaction, at the end of 2018, Prudential assumed responsibility for pension benefits and annuity administration for approximately 23,000 retirees or their beneficiaries receiving less than $1,000 in monthly benefit payments from the plan. Settlement accounting rules required a remeasurement of the qualified plan as well as curtailmentof October 2, 2018 and special termination benefit charges.the Company recognized a non-cash pension settlement charge of $424 million before tax in the fourth quarter of 2018.


On September 26, 2017, the Company entered into an agreement with The Prudential Insurance Company of America to purchase a group annuity contract and transfer approximately $1.3 billion of International Paper's U.S. qualified pension plan projected benefit obligations, subject to customary closing conditions. The transaction closed on October 3, 2017 and was funded with pension plan assets. Under the transaction,
at the end of 2017, Prudential assumed responsibility for pension benefits and annuity administration for approximately 45,000 retirees or their beneficiaries receiving less than $450 in monthly benefit payments from the plan. Settlement accounting rules required a remeasurement of the qualified plan as of October 3, 2017 and the Company recognized a non-cash pension settlement charge of $376 million before tax in the fourth quarter of 2017. In addition, large payments from the non-qualified pension plan also required a remeasurement as of October 2, 2017 and a non-cash settlement charge of $7 million was also recognized in the fourth quarter of 2017.
In the first quarter of 2016 International Paper announced a voluntary, limited-time opportunity for former employees who are participants in the Retirement Plan of International Paper Company (the Pension Plan) to request early payment of their entire Pension Plan benefit in the form of a single lump sum payment. The amount of total payments under this program was approximately $1.2 billion, and were made from Plan trust assets on June 30, 2016. Based on the level of payments made, settlement accounting rules applied and resulted in a plan remeasurement as of the June 30, 2016 payment date. As a result of settlement accounting, the Company recognized a pro-rata portion of the unamortized net actuarial loss, after remeasurement, resulting in a $439 million non-cash charge to the Company's earnings in the second quarter of 2016. Additional payments of $8 million and $9 million were made during the third and fourth quarters, respectively, due to mandatory cash payouts and a small lump sum payout, and the Pension Plan was subsequently remeasured at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2016. As a result of settlement accounting, the Company recognized non-cash settlement charges of $3 million in both the third and fourth quarters of 2016.


ASSUMPTIONS


International Paper evaluates its actuarial assumptions annually as of December 31 (the measurement date) and considers changes in these long-term factors based upon market conditions and the requirements for employers’ accounting for pensions. These assumptions are used to calculate benefit obligations as of December 31 of the current year and pension expense to be recorded in the following year (i.e., the discount rate used to determine the benefit obligation as of December 31, 2017 was2019 is also the discount rate used to determine net pension expense for the 20182020 year).









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Major actuarial assumptions used in determining the benefit obligations and net periodic pension cost for our defined benefit plans are presented in the following table:
201720162015201920182017
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Actuarial assumptions used to determine benefit obligations as of December 31:  
Discount rate3.60%3.59%4.10%3.88%4.40%4.64%3.40%2.70%4.30%3.97%3.60%3.59%
Rate of compensation increase3.75%4.06%3.75%4.20%3.75%4.12%2.25%3.62%2.25%4.05%3.75%4.06%
Actuarial assumptions used to determine net periodic pension cost for years ended December 31:  
Discount rate (a)4.03%3.88%4.05%4.72%4.10%4.72%4.30%3.97%3.80%3.59%4.03%3.88%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets7.50%6.73%7.75%6.55%7.75%6.64%7.25%6.20%7.50%6.52%7.50%6.73%
Rate of compensation increase3.75%4.20%3.75%4.03%3.75%4.03%2.25%4.05%3.38%4.06%3.75%4.20%
 
(a) Represents the weighted average rate for the U.S. qualified plans in 20172018 and 20162017 due to the remeasurements.


The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is based on projected rates of return for current and planned asset classes in the plan’s investment portfolio. Projected rates of return are developed through an asset/liability study in which projected returns for each of the plan’s asset classes are determined after analyzing historical experience and future expectations of returns and volatility of the various asset classes.


Based on the target asset allocation for each asset class, the overall expected rate of return for the portfolio is developed considering the effects of active portfolio management and expenses paid from plan assets. The discount rate assumption was determined from a universe of high quality corporate bonds. A settlement portfolio is selected and matched to the present value of the plan’s projected benefit payments. To calculate pension expense for 2018,2020, the Company will use an expected long-term rate of return on plan assets of 7.50%7.00% for the Retirement Plan of International Paper, a discount rate of 3.60%3.40% and an assumed rate of compensation increase of 3.75%2.25%. The Company estimates that it will record net pension expense of approximately $167$46 million for its U.S. defined benefit plans in 2018,2020, compared to expense of $717$93 million in 2017.2019. The 2017 expense includes $45 million of curtailment and special pension benefits associated with the North American Consumer Packaging business and $383 million of settlement accounting charges. Excluding these settlement charges and curtailment and special pension benefits, the estimated decrease in net pension expense in 20182020 is primarily due to higher return on assets and lower interest cost on the reduced pension obligationpartially offset by higher amortization of actuarial losses and a higher expected return on assets associated with the increased pension asset balance.service cost.


For non-U.S. pension plans, assumptions reflect economic assumptions applicable to each country.


The following illustrates the effect on pension expense for 20182020 of a 25 basis point decrease in the above assumptions:
In millions2020
Expense (Income): 
Discount rate$31
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets24

In millions2018
Expense/(Income): 
Discount rate$35
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets27
Rate of compensation increase(1)


PLAN ASSETS


International Paper’s Board of Directors has appointed a Fiduciary Review Committee that is responsible for fiduciary oversight of the U.S. Pension Plan, approving investment policy and reviewing the management and control of plan assets. Pension Plan assets are invested to maximize returns within prudent levels of risk.


The Pension Plan maintains a strategic asset allocation policy that designates target allocations by asset class. Investments are diversified across classes and within each class to minimize the risk of large losses. Derivatives, including swaps, forward and futures contracts, may be used as asset class substitutes or for hedging or other risk management purposes. Periodic reviews are made of investment policy objectives and investment manager performance. For non-U.S. plans, assets consist principally of common stock and fixed income securities.


International Paper’s U.S. pension allocations by type of fund at December 31, 2019 and 2018 and target allocations were as follows:
Asset Class20192018Target
Allocations
Equity accounts37%32%32% - 43%
Fixed income accounts50%51%44% - 56%
Real estate accounts8%11%5% - 11%
Other5%6%3% - 8%
Total100%100% 

Asset Class20172016Target
Allocations
Equity accounts49%51%42% - 53%
Fixed income accounts36%27%32% - 44%
Real estate accounts10%10%7% - 13%
Other5%12%3% - 8%
Total100%100% 



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The fair values of International Paper’s pension plan assets at December 31, 20172019 and 20162018 by asset class are shown below. Plan assets included an immaterial amount of International Paper common stock at December 31, 2016. Hedge funds disclosed in the following table are allocated equally between equity andto fixed income accounts for target allocation purposes. Following our adoption of ASU 2018-09 "Codification Improvements", we have evaluated certain investments and classified them as Level 2 (previously Level 0). Prior year leveling disclosures have been updated for comparability as a result of our retrospective adoption of this disclosure guidance.
Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2019
Asset ClassTotalQuoted
Prices
in
Active
Markets
For
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
In millions        
Equities – domestic$1,613
$965
$648
$
Equities – international2,181
1,599
582

Corporate bonds1,845

1,845

Government securities2,659

2,659

Mortgage backed securities1

1

Other fixed income(647)
(661)14
Derivatives(19)

(19)
Cash and cash equivalents336
336


Other investments:    
  Hedge funds902
   
  Private equity522
   
  Real estate funds772
   
Total Investments$10,165
$2,900
$5,074
$(5)


Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2017
Asset ClassTotalQuoted
Prices in
Active
Markets
For
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
In millions        
Equities – domestic$1,291
$1,291
$
$
Equities – international2,132
2,119
13

Corporate bonds1,177

1,177

Government securities2,778

2,778

Mortgage backed securities1


1
Other fixed income(802)
(814)12
Commodities



Derivatives8

(8)16
Cash and cash equivalents397
397


Other investments:    
  Equities - domestic708
   
  Equities - international866
   
  Corporate bonds66
   
  Other fixed income232
   
  Hedge funds927
   
  Private equity481
   
  Real estate1,106
   
Total Investments$11,368
$3,807
$3,146
$29

Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2018
Asset ClassTotalQuoted
Prices in
Active
Markets
For
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
In millions        
Equities – domestic$1,200
$685
$515
$
Equities – international1,583
1,141
442

Corporate bonds1,493

1,493

Government securities2,262

2,262

Other fixed income(543)
(556)13
Derivatives98


98
Cash and cash equivalents294
294


Other investments:    
  Hedge funds886
   
  Private equity518
   
  Real estate funds944
   
Total Investments$8,735
$2,120
$4,156
$111

Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2016
Asset ClassTotalQuoted
Prices
in
Active
Markets
For
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
In millions        
Equities – domestic$2,208
$1,380
$828
$
Equities – international2,575
1,806
769

Corporate bonds1,018

1,018

Government securities870

870

Mortgage backed securities41

40
1
Other fixed income245

234
11
Commodities324

324

Derivatives(71)

(71)
Cash and cash equivalents322
322


Other investments:    
  Hedge funds891
   
  Private equity472
   
  Real estate1,015
   
  Risk parity funds402
   
Total Investments$10,312
$3,508
$4,083
$(59)


In accordance with accounting standards, the followingcertain investments that are measured at NAV and are not classified in the fair value hierarchy. Some of the investments have
redemption limitations, restrictions, and notice requirements which are further explained below.
Other Investments at December 31, 2017
InvestmentFair ValueUnfunded CommitmentsRedemption FrequencyRemediation Notice Period
Equities - domestic$708
$
Daily to monthly1-5 days
Equities - international866

Daily to monthly1-5 days
Corporate bonds66

Daily to monthly1-5 days
Other fixed income232

Daily to monthly1-5 days
Hedge funds927

Daily to annually1 - 100 days
Private equity481
262
NoneNone
Real estate1,106
121
Quarterly45 - 60 days
Total$4,386
$383


Other Investments at December 31, 2019
InvestmentFair ValueUnfunded CommitmentsRedemption FrequencyRemediation Notice Period
In millions    
Hedge funds902

Daily to annually1 - 100 days
Private equity522
198
(a)None
Real estate funds772
147
Quarterly45 - 60 days
Total$2,196
$345
  

(a) A private equity fund investment ("partnership interest") is contractually locked up for the life of the private equity fund by the partnership agreement. Limited partners do not have the option to redeem partnership interests.
Other Investments at December 31, 2018
InvestmentFair ValueUnfunded CommitmentsRedemption FrequencyRemediation Notice Period
In millions        
Hedge funds886

Daily to annually1 - 100 days
Private equity518
310
(a)None
Real estate funds944
109
Quarterly45 - 60 days
Total$2,348
$419




(a) A private equity fund investment ("partnership interest") is contractually locked up for the life of the private equity fund by the partnership agreement. Limited partners do not have the option to redeem partnership interests.











Other Investments at December 31, 2016
InvestmentFair ValueUnfunded CommitmentsRedemption FrequencyRemediation Notice Period
Hedge funds$891
$
Daily to annually1 - 100 days
Private equity472
226
NoneNone
Real estate1,015
224
Quarterly45 - 60 days
Risk parity funds402

Monthly5 - 15 days
Total$2,780
$450
  

Equity securities consist primarily of publicly traded U.S. companies and international companies. Publicly traded equities are valued at the closing prices reported in the active market in which the individual securities are traded.


Fixed income consists of government securities, mortgage-backed securities, corporate bonds, and common collective funds.funds and other fixed income investments. Government securities are valued by third-party pricing sources. Mortgage-backed security holdings consist primarily of agency-rated holdings. The fair value estimates for mortgage securities are calculated by third-party pricing sources chosen by the custodian’s price matrix. Corporate bonds are valued using either the yields currently available on comparable securities of issuers with similar credit ratings or using a discounted
cash flows approach that utilizes observable inputs, such as current yields of similar instruments, but includes adjustments for certain risks that may not be observable, such as credit and liquidity risks. Common collective funds are valued at the net asset value per share multiplied by the number of shares held as of the measurement date. Other fixed income investments of $(647) million and $(543) million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, primarily include reverse repurchase agreement obligations in which we have sold a security and have an agreement to repurchase the same or substantially the same security at a later date for a price specified in the agreement.


Derivative investments such as futures, forward contracts, options and swaps are used to help manage risks. Derivatives are generally employed as asset class substitutes (such as when employed in a portable alpha strategy), for managing asset/liability mismatches, or
bona fide hedging or other appropriate risk management purposes.Derivative instruments are generally valued by the investment managers or in certain instances by third-party pricing sources.

Hedge funds are investment structures for managing private, loosely-regulated investment pools that can pursue a diverse array of investment strategies with a
wide range of different securities and derivative instruments. These investments are made through funds-of-funds (commingled, multi-manager fund structures) and through direct investments in individual hedge funds. Hedge funds are primarily valued by each fund’s third-party administrator based upon the valuation of the underlying securities and instruments

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and primarily by applying a market or income valuation methodology as appropriate depending on the specific type of security or instrument held. Funds-of-funds are valued based upon the net asset values of the underlying investments in hedge funds.


Private equity consists of interests in partnerships that invest in U.S. and non-U.S. debt and equity securities. Partnership interests are valued using the most recent general partner statement of fair value, updated for any subsequent partnership interest cash flows.


Real estate includesfunds include commercial properties, land and timberland, and generally includes,include, but isare not limited to, retail, office, industrial, multifamily and hotel properties. Real estate fund values are primarily reported by the fund manager and are based on valuation of the
underlying investments which include inputs such as cost, discounted cash flows, independent appraisals and market based comparable data.

Derivative investments such as futures, forward contracts, options and swaps are used to help manage risks. Derivatives are generally employed as an asset class substitutes (such as when employed in a portable alpha strategy), for managing asset/liability mismatches, or bona fide hedging or other appropriate risk management purposes.Derivative instruments are generally valued by the investment managers or in certain instances by third-party pricing sources.
























The following is a reconciliation of the assets that are classified using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) at December 31, 20172019.


Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)

In millionsMortgage backed securitiesOther
fixed
income
DerivativesTotal
Beginning balance at December 31, 2017$1
$12
$16
$29
Actual return on plan assets:    
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date
1
75
76
Relating to assets sold during the period

(19)(19)
Purchases, sales and settlements(1)
26
25
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3



Ending balance at December 31, 2018$
$13
$98
$111
Actual return on plan assets:    
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date
1
(127)(126)
Relating to assets sold during the period

314
314
Purchases, sales and settlements

(304)(304)
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3



Ending balance at December 31, 2019$
$14
$(19)$(5)
In millionsMortgage backed securitiesOther
fixed
income
DerivativesTotal
Beginning balance at December 31, 2015$
$10
$(20)$(10)
Actual return on plan assets:    
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date
1
(66)(65)
Relating to assets sold during the period

(24)(24)
Purchases, sales and settlements1

39
40
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3



Ending balance at December 31, 2016$1
$11
$(71)$(59)
Actual return on plan assets:    
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date
1
94
95
Relating to assets sold during the period

(23)(23)
Purchases, sales and settlements

16
16
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3



Ending balance at December 31, 2017$1
$12
$16
$29

 
FUNDING AND CASH FLOWS


The Company’s funding policy for the Pension Plan is to contribute amounts sufficient to meet legal funding requirements, plus any additional amounts that the Company may determine to be appropriate considering the funded status of the plans, tax deductibility, cash
flow generated by the Company, and other factors. The
Company continually reassesses the amount and
timing of any discretionary contributions. Contributions to the qualified plan totaling $1.25$1.25 billion, $750 million and $750 million were made by the Company in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.2017. No voluntary contributions were made in 2018 or 2019. Generally, International Paper’s non-U.S. pension plans are funded using the projected benefit as a target, except in certain countries where funding of benefit plans is not required.


At December 31, 20172019, projected future pension benefit payments, excluding any termination benefits, were as follows:
In millions  
2020$569
2021579
2022593
2023607
2024619
2025-20293,217

In millions  
2018$708
2019709
2020718
2021727
2022735
2023-20273,763


OTHER U.S. PLANS


International Paper sponsors the International Paper Company Salaried Savings Plan and the International Paper Company Hourly Savings Plan, both of which are

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tax-qualified defined contribution 401(k) savings plans. Substantially all U.S. salaried and certain hourly employees are eligible to participate and may make
elective deferrals to such plans to save for retirement. International Paper makes matching contributions to participant accounts on a specified percentage of employee deferrals as determined by the provisions of each plan. For eligible employees hired after June 30, 2004, theThe Company makes Retirement Savings Account contributions equal to a percentage of an eligible employee’s pay. Beginning in 2019, as a result of the freeze for salaried employees under the Pension Plan, all salaried employees are eligible for the contribution to the Retirement Savings Account.


The Company also sponsors the International Paper Company Deferred Compensation Savings Plan, which is an unfunded nonqualified defined contribution plan. This plan permits eligible employees to continue to make deferrals and receive company matching contributions (and Retirement Savings Account contributions) when their contributions to the International Paper Salaried Savings Plan are stopped due to limitations under U.S. tax law. Participant deferrals and company contributions are not invested in a separate trust, but are paid directly from International Paper’s general assets at the time benefits become due and payable.


Company contributions to the plans totaled approximately $172 million, $125 million and $117 million, $106 million and $100 million for the plan years ending in 20172019, 20162018 and 20152017, respectively.

The increase in 2019 reflects increased contributions in connection with the salaried pension plan freeze.



U.S. POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS


International Paper provides certain retiree health care and life insurance benefits covering certain U.S.

salaried and hourly employees. These employees are generally eligible for benefits upon retirement and completion of a specified number of years of creditable service. International Paper does not fund these benefits prior to payment and has the right to modify or terminate certain of these plans in the future.


In addition to the U.S. plan, certain Brazilian and Moroccan employees are eligible for retiree health care and life insurance benefits.













The components of postretirement benefit expense in 20172019, 20162018 and 20152017 were as follows:
In millions201920182017
 U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Service cost$
$1
$1
$
$1
$
Interest cost8
1
8
2
11
2
Actuarial loss4
2
9
2
8
3
Amortization of prior service credits(2)(3)(2)(3)(3)(4)
Net postretirement expense$10
$1
$16
$1
$17
$1

In millions201720162015
 U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Service cost$1
$
$1
$
$1
$1
Interest cost11
2
11
3
11
5
Actuarial loss8
3
5
2
6
1
Amortization of prior service credits(3)(4)(4)(4)(10)(2)
Net postretirement (benefit) expense$17
$1
$13
$1
$8
$5


International Paper evaluates its actuarial assumptions annually as of December 31 (the measurement date) and considers changes in these long-term factors based upon market conditions and the requirements of employers’ accounting for postretirement benefits other than pensions. The discount rate assumption was determined based on a hypothetical settlement portfolio selected from a universe of high quality corporate bonds.


The discount rates used to determine net U.S. and non-U.S. postretirement benefit cost for the years ended December 31, 20172019, 20162018 and 20152017 were as follows:
 201920182017
 U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Discount rate4.20%9.10%3.50%9.38%4.00%10.53%

 201720162015
 U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Discount rate4.00%10.53%4.20%12.23%3.90%11.52%


The weighted average assumptions used to determine the benefit obligation at December 31, 20172019 and 20162018 were as follows:
 20192018
 U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Discount rate3.30%7.15%4.20%9.10%
Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year6.75%9.57%7.00%10.04%
Rate that the cost trend rate gradually declines to5.00%4.78%5.00%4.93%
Year that the rate reaches the rate it is assumed to remain2026
2030
2026
2030

 20172016
 U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Discount rate3.50%9.38%4.00%10.53%
Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year6.50%10.27%6.50%10.90%
Rate that the cost trend rate gradually declines to5.00%5.15%5.00%5.81%
Year that the rate reaches the rate it is assumed to remain2022
2028
2022
2027

















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A 1% increase in the assumed annual health care cost trend rate would have increased the U.S. and non-U.S. accumulated postretirement benefit obligations at December 31, 2017 by approximately $12 million and $6 million, respectively. A 1% decrease in the annual trend rate would have decreased the U.S. and non-U.S. accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at December 31, 2017 by approximately $10 million and $4 million, respectively. The effect on net postretirement benefit cost from a 1% increase or decrease would be approximately $1 million for both U.S. and non-U.S. plans.

The plans are only funded in an amount equal to benefits paid. The following table presents the changes in benefit obligation and plan assets for 20172019 and 20162018:
In millions20192018
 U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Change in projected benefit obligation:    
Benefit obligation, January 1$213
$24
$270
$25
Service cost
1
1

Interest cost8
1
8
2
Participants’ contributions4

5

Actuarial (gain) loss20
8
(34)2
Benefits paid(32)(2)(38)(1)
Less: Federal subsidy1

1

Currency Impact
(1)
(4)
Benefit obligation, December 31$214
$31
$213
$24
Change in plan assets:    
Fair value of plan assets, January 1$
$
$
$
Company contributions28
2
33
1
Participants’ contributions4

5

Benefits paid(32)(2)(38)(1)
Fair value of plan assets, December 31$
$
$
$
Funded status, December 31$(214)$(31)$(213)$(24)
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet under ASC 715:    
Current liability$(21)$(1)$(23)$(1)
Non-current liability(193)(30)(190)(23)
 $(214)$(31)$(213)$(24)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income under ASC 715 (pre-tax):    
Net actuarial loss (gain)$47
$19
$31
$15
Prior service credit(2)(18)(4)(22)
 $45
$1
$27
$(7)

In millions20172016
 U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Change in projected benefit obligation:    
Benefit obligation, January 1$280
$23
$275
$45
Service cost1

1

Interest cost11
2
11
3
Participants’ contributions5

5

Actuarial (gain) loss14
2
31
5
Plan amendments


(35)
Benefits paid(42)(2)(44)(1)
Less: Federal subsidy1

1

Currency Impact


6
Benefit obligation, December 31$270
$25
$280
$23
Change in plan assets:    
Fair value of plan assets, January 1$
$
$
$
Company contributions37
2
39
1
Participants’ contributions5

5

Benefits paid(42)(2)(44)(1)
Fair value of plan assets, December 31$
$
$
$
Funded status, December 31$(270)$(25)$(280)$(23)
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet under ASC 715:    
Current liability$(28)$(1)$(29)$(2)
Non-current liability(242)(24)(251)(21)
 $(270)$(25)$(280)$(23)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income under ASC 715 (pre-tax):    
Net actuarial loss (gain)$74
$19
$68
$21
Prior service credit(6)(30)(8)(34)
 $68
$(11)$60
$(13)



The non-current portion of the liability is included with the postemployment liability in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet under Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligation.


The components of the $818 million and $2$8 million change in the amounts recognized in OCI during 20172019 for U.S. and non-U.S. plans, respectively, consisted of:
In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Current year actuarial (gain) loss$20
$7
Amortization of actuarial (loss) gain(4)(2)
Current year prior service cost

Amortization of prior service credit2
3
Currency impact

 $18
$8

In millionsU.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
Current year actuarial loss$14
$1
Amortization of actuarial (loss) gain(8)(3)
Current year prior service cost

Amortization of prior service credit2
4
Currency impact

 $8
$2


The portion of the change in the funded status that was recognized in either net periodic benefit cost orand OCI for the U.S. plans was $29 million, $(25) million and $25 million in 2019, $42 million2018 and $17 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The portion of the change in funded status for the non-U.S. plans was $9 million, $5 million, and $3 million $(25) million,in 2019, 2018 and $0 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.


The estimated amounts of net loss and prior service credit that will be amortized from OCI into net U.S. postretirement benefit cost in 2018 are expected to be $8 million and $(2) million, respectively. The estimated amounts for non-U.S. plans in 2018 are expected to be $2 million and $(4) million, respectively.

At December 31, 20172019, estimated total future postretirement benefit payments, net of participant contributions and estimated future Medicare Part D subsidy receipts, were as follows:
In millionsBenefit
Payments
Subsidy ReceiptsBenefit
Payments
 U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
2020$22
$1
$1
202121
1

202220
1
1
202318
1
1
202417
1
1
2025 – 202973
4
6

In millionsBenefit
Payments
Subsidy ReceiptsBenefit
Payments
 U.S.
Plans
U.S.
Plans
Non-
U.S.
Plans
2018$29
$1
$1
201927
1
1
202025
1
1
202124
1

202222
1

2023 – 202791
5
4


76


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International Paper currently has an Incentive Compensation Plan (ICP) which, upon the approval by the Company’s shareholders in May 2009, replaced the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (LTICP). The ICP authorizes grants of restricted stock, restricted or deferred stock units, performance awards payable in cash or stock upon the attainment of specified performance goals, dividend equivalents, stock options, stock appreciation rights, other stock-based awards, and cash-based awards at the discretion of the Management Development and

Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the Committee) that administers the ICP. Additionally,
restricted stock, which may be deferred into RSU’s, may be awarded under a Restricted Stock and Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors.


PERFORMANCE SHARE PLAN


Under the Performance Share Plan (PSP), contingent awards of International Paper common stock are granted by the Committee. The PSP awards are earned over a three-year period. PSP awards are earned based on the achievement of defined performance rankings of ROICReturn on Invested Capital (ROIC) measured against our internal benchmark and TSRranking of Total Shareholder Return (TSR) compared to ROIC andthe TSR peer groupsgroup of companies. Awards areThe 2017-2019 Award is weighted 75% for ROIC and 25% for TSR for all participants except for officers for whom the awards are weighted 50% for ROIC and 50% for TSR. The 2018-2020 and 2019-2021 Awards are weighted 50% ROIC and 50% TSR for all participants. The ROIC component of the PSP awards is valued at the closing stock price on the day prior to the grant date. As the ROIC component contains a performance condition, compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, is recorded over the requisite service period based on the most probable number of awards expected to vest. The TSR component of the PSP awards is valued using a Monte Carlo simulation as the TSR component contains a market condition. The Monte Carlo simulation estimates the fair value of the TSR component based on the expected term of the award, a risk-free rate, expected dividends, and the expected volatility for the Company and its competitors. The expected term is estimated based on the vesting period of the awards, the risk-free rate is based on the yield on U.S. Treasury securities matching the vesting period, and the volatility is based on the Company’s historical volatility over the expected term. PSP grants are made in performance-based restricted stock units.









The following table sets forth the assumptions used to determine compensation cost for the market condition component of the PSP plan:
  Twelve Months Ended December 31, 20172019
Expected volatility22.75%-23.39%22.81%-24.60%
Risk-free interest rate1.10%-1.47%1.47%-2.44%



The following summarizes PSP activity for the three years ending ended December 31, 20172019:
Share/Units
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Share/Units
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 20147,275,934

$34.98
Granted1,863,623
53.25
Shares issued(2,959,160)37.09
Forfeited(322,664)53.97
Outstanding at December 31, 20155,857,733
38.69
Granted2,617,982
37.26
Shares issued(2,316,085)43.82
Forfeited(209,500)43.61
Outstanding at December 31, 20165,950,130
35.89
5,950,130

$35.89
Granted2,163,912
51.78
2,163,912
51.78
Shares issued(1,876,134)51.00
(1,876,134)51.00
Forfeited(438,024)45.96
(438,024)45.96
Outstanding at December 31, 20175,799,884

$36.17
5,799,884
36.17
Granted1,751,235
62.97
Shares issued(1,588,642)53.67
Forfeited(196,000)56.57
Outstanding at December 31, 20185,766,477
38.79
Granted2,353,613
43.49
Shares issued(2,367,135)36.79
Forfeited(238,227)50.64
Outstanding at December 31, 20195,514,728

$41.14


RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD PROGRAMS


The service-based Restricted Stock Award program (RSA), designed for recruitment, retention and special recognition purposes, provides for awards of restricted stock to key employees.


The following summarizes the activity of the RSA program for the three years ending ended December 31, 20172019:
 Shares
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2016169,331

$45.34
Granted63,319
57.24
Shares issued(59,650)47.90
Forfeited(6,700)53.53
Outstanding at December 31, 2017166,300
48.63
Granted66,100
51.43
Shares issued(100,289)48.44
Forfeited

Outstanding at December 31, 2018132,111
50.17
Granted87,910
43.70
Shares issued(52,021)48.90
Forfeited(7,300)45.10
Outstanding at December 31, 2019160,700

$47.27

 Shares
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2014114,599

$47.03
Granted36,300
50.06
Shares issued(27,365)45.35
Forfeited(3,166)50.04
Outstanding at December 31, 2015120,368
48.24
Granted117,881
42.81
Shares issued(59,418)47.14
Forfeited(9,500)39.36
Outstanding at December 31, 2016169,331
45.34
Granted63,319
57.24
Shares issued(59,650)47.90
Forfeited(6,700)53.53
Outstanding at December 31, 2017166,300

$48.63




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At December 31, 20172019, 20162018 and 20152017 a total of 9.8 million, 11.9 million and 13.2 million, 14.3 million and 16.2 million shares, respectively, were available for grant under the ICP.


Stock-based compensation expense and related income tax benefits were as follows:
In millions201920182017
Total stock-based compensation expense (included in selling and administrative expense)$130
$135
$147
Income tax benefits related to stock-based compensation30
16
45

In millions201720162015
Total stock-based compensation expense (included in selling and administrative expense)$147
$124
$107
Income tax benefits related to stock-based compensation45
34
88


At December 31, 20172019, $8692 million of compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to unvested
restricted performance shares, executive continuity awards and restricted stock attributable to future performance had not yet been recognized. This amount will be recognized in expense over a weighted-average period of 1.81.6 years.




International Paper’s business segments, Industrial Packaging, Global Cellulose Fibers and Printing Papers, are consistent with the internal structure used to manage these businesses. See the Description of IndustryBusiness Segments in Part II. Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for a description of the types of products and services from which each reportable segment derives its revenues. On January 1, 2018, the Company completed the previously announced transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business, which includes its North American Coated Paperboard and Foodservice businesses, to a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. The North American Consumer Packaging business was historically presented in the Company's Consumer Packaging segment; however, as a result of this transfer, all current and prior year amounts have been adjusted to reflect the North American Consumer Packaging business as a discontinued operation. In addition, after the announced transfer during the fourth quarter of 2017, the chief operating decision maker began evaluating the European Coated Paperboard business, previously presented in the Company's Consumer Packaging business segment, as part of the Industrial Packaging business segment. As such, amounts related to the European Coated Paperboard business have been presented in the Industrial Packaging business segment for all periods presented. All segments are differentiated on a common product, common customer basis consistent with the business segmentation generally used in the Forest Products industry.

Business segment operating profits are used by International Paper’s management to measure the earnings performance of its businesses. Management believes that this measure allows a better understanding of trends in costs, operating efficiencies, prices and volumes. Business segment operating profits are defined as earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings, but including the impact of equity earnings and noncontrolling interests, and excluding interest expense, net, corporate items, andnet, corporate special items.items, net, business special items, net, and non-operating pension expense. In 2019, the Company changed its measure of business segment operating profits to exclude items considered by management to be unusual (business special items, net) from the normal operations of the business segment. As a result, all prior periods have been restated to reflect the current measure.
External sales by major product is determined by aggregating sales from each segment based on similar products or services. External sales are defined as those that are made to parties outside International Paper’s consolidated group, whereas sales by segment in the Net Sales table are determined using a management approach and include intersegment sales.


The Company also holds a 50% interest in Ilim that is a separate reportable industry segment. The Company recorded equity earnings (losses), net of taxes, of $183 million, $199 million, and $131 million in 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively, for Ilim. Equity earnings (losses) includes an after-tax foreign exchange gain (loss) of $15 million, $25 million, and $(75) million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, primarily on the remeasurement of U.S. dollar-denominated net debt.

Summarized financial information for Ilim which is accounted for under the equity method is presented in the following tables. The audited U.S. GAAP financial statements for Ilim are included in Exhibit 99.1 to this Form 10-K.

Balance Sheet
In millions2017 2016
Current assets$689
 $774
Noncurrent assets1,696
 1,351
Current liabilities1,039
 402
Noncurrent liabilities972
 1,426
Noncontrolling interests6
 22

Income Statement
In millions2017 2016 2015
Net sales$2,150
 $1,927
 $1,931
Gross profit1,047
 957
 971
Income from continuing operations379
 419
 254
Net income attributable to Ilim362
 391
 237







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At December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company's investment in Ilim, which is recorded in Investments in the consolidated balance sheet, was $338 million and $302 million, respectively, which was $154 million and $164 million, respectively, more than the Company's proportionate share of the joint venture's underlying net assets. The differences primarily relate to purchase price fair value adjustments and currency translation adjustments. The Company is party to a joint marketing agreement with Ilim, under which the Company purchases, markets and sells paper produced by Ilim. Purchases under this agreement were $205 million, $170 million and $170 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

INFORMATION BY BUSINESS SEGMENT


Net Sales
In millions2019 2018 2017
Industrial Packaging$15,326
 $15,900
 $15,077
Global Cellulose Fibers2,551
 2,819
 2,551
Printing Papers4,291
 4,375
 4,157
Corporate and Intersegment Sales (a)208
 212
 (42)
Net Sales$22,376
 $23,306
 $21,743


Operating Profit
In millions2019 2018 2017
Industrial Packaging$2,076
 $2,277
 $1,919
Global Cellulose Fibers(6) 262
 116
Printing Papers529
 543
 459
Business Segment Operating Profit2,599
 3,082
 2,494
      
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings1,604
 1,781
 848
Interest expense, net491
 536
 572
Noncontrolling interests / equity earnings adjustment (b)3
 (10) (2)
Corporate expenses, net (a)54
 67
 91
Corporate special items, net (a)104
 9
 76
Business special items, net307
 205
 425
Non-operating pension expense36
 494
 484

$2,599
 $3,082
 $2,494


Business Special Items, Net
In millions2019 2018 2017
Industrial Packaging$78
 $184
 $372
Global Cellulose Fibers68
 11
 51
Printing Papers161
 10
 2
Business Special Items, Net$307
 $205
 $425


In millions2017 2016 2015
Industrial Packaging$15,077
 $14,226
 $14,559
Global Cellulose Fibers2,551
 1,092
 975
Printing Papers4,157
 4,058
 4,056
Corporate and Intersegment Sales (a)(42) 119
 1,085
Net Sales$21,743
 $19,495
 $20,675

Operating Profit
In millions2017 2016 2015
Industrial Packaging$1,547
 $1,741
 $1,938
Global Cellulose Fibers65
 (179) 68
Printing Papers457
 540
 465
Business Segment Operating Profit2,069
 2,102
 2,471
      
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings848
 795
 1,132
Interest expense, net572
 520
 555
Noncontrolling interests / equity earnings adjustment (b)(2) 1
 8
Corporate items, net (a)91
 121
 96
Corporate special items, net (a)76
 55
 422
Non-operating pension expense484
 610
 258

$2,069
 $2,102
 $2,471

Restructuring and Other Charges
In millions2017 2016 2015
Industrial Packaging$
 $7
 $
Global Cellulose Fibers
 
 
Printing Papers
 
 
Corporate (c)67
 47
 252
Restructuring and Other Charges$67
 $54
 $252

Assets
In millions2019 2018
Industrial Packaging$16,338
 $15,859
Global Cellulose Fibers3,733
 3,880
Printing Papers3,476
 3,905
Corporate and other (c)9,924
 9,932
Assets$33,471
 $33,576

In millions2017 2016
Industrial Packaging$15,354
 $14,707
Global Cellulose Fibers3,913
 3,845
Printing Papers4,054
 3,965
Corporate and other (d)10,582
 10,576
Assets$33,903
 $33,093


Capital Spending
In millions2019 2018 2017
Industrial Packaging$922
 $1,061
 $836
Global Cellulose Fibers162
 183
 188
Printing Papers172
 303
 235
Subtotal1,256
 1,547
 1,259
Corporate and other20
 25
 21
Capital Spending$1,276
 $1,572
 $1,280

In millions2017 2016 2015
Industrial Packaging$836
 $832
 $871
Global Cellulose Fibers188
 174
 129
Printing Papers235
 215
 232
Subtotal1,259
 1,221
 1,232
Corporate and other (e)21
 20
 78
Capital Spending$1,280
 $1,241
 $1,310


Depreciation, Amortization and Cost of Timber Harvested (f)
In millions2019 2018 2017
Industrial Packaging$794
 $803
 $815
Global Cellulose Fibers263
 262
 264
Printing Papers244
 258
 254
Corporate (d)5
 5
 10
Depreciation and Amortization$1,306
 $1,328
 $1,343

In millions2017 2016 2015
Industrial Packaging$781
 $730
 $739
Global Cellulose Fibers261
 108
 73
Printing Papers245
 232
 234
Corporate (g)56
 54
 121
Depreciation and Amortization$1,343
 $1,124
 $1,167


External Sales By Major Product
In millions2017 2016 20152019 2018 2017
Industrial Packaging$14,946
 $14,142
 $14,496
$15,259
 $15,828
 $14,946
Global Cellulose Fibers2,524
 1,090
 986
2,545
 2,810
 2,524
Printing Papers4,142
 4,062
 4,082
4,284
 4,359
 4,142
Other (h)(e)131
 201
 1,111
288
 309
 131
Net Sales$21,743
 $19,495
 $20,675
$22,376
 $23,306
 $21,743



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INFORMATION BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA

Net Sales (i)(f)
In millions2019 2018 2017
United States (g)$16,948
 $17,609
 $16,247
EMEA3,258
 3,321
 3,129
Pacific Rim and Asia415
 605
 625
Americas, other than U.S.1,755
 1,771
 1,742
Net Sales$22,376
 $23,306
 $21,743

In millions2017 2016 2015
United States (j)$16,247
 $14,363
 $14,875
EMEA3,129
 2,852
 2,759
Pacific Rim and Asia625
 699
 1,501
Americas, other than U.S.1,742
 1,581
 1,540
Net Sales$21,743
 $19,495
 $20,675


Long-Lived Assets (k)(h)
In millions2019 2018
United States$10,706
 $10,586
EMEA1,368
 1,315
Pacific Rim and Asia
 201
Americas, other than U.S.1,321
 1,367
Long-Lived Assets$13,395
 $13,469

In millions2017 2016
United States$10,545
 $10,532
EMEA1,302
 1,009
Pacific Rim and Asia236
 246
Americas, other than U.S.1,630
 1,672
Long-Lived Assets$13,713
 $13,459










































(a)Includes sales of $15 million, in 2017, $42 million in 2016 and $931 million in 2015, operating profits (losses) of $0 million in 2017, $(2) million in 2016 and $(62) million in 2015, and corporate special items expense of $9 million in 2017 $9 million in 2016 and $184 million in 2015, from previously divested businesses.
(b)Operating profits for industry segments include each segment’s percentage share of the profits of subsidiaries included in that segment that are less than wholly-owned. The pre-tax noncontrolling interests and equity earnings for these subsidiaries is added here to present consolidated earnings from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings.
(c)
Includes corporate expensesassets and expensesassets of $9 million in 2017, $9 million in 2016 and $10 million in 2015, from previously divested businesses.
businesses held for sale.
(d)
Includes corporate assets, assets of businesses held for sale and assets of$1 million in 2017 from previously divested businesses.
(e)
Includes corporate assets and assets of$15 million in 2017 from previously divested businesses of $0 million in 2017, $1 million in 2016 and $26 million in 2015.businesses.
(f)Excludes accelerated depreciation related to the closure and/or repurposing of mills.
(g)
Includes $1 million in 2017, $2 million in 2016 and $74 million in 2015 from previously divested businesses.
(h)
Includes $15 million in 2017, $42 million in 2016, and $930 million in 2015 from previously divested businesses.
(i)Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.
(j)(g)
Export sales to unaffiliated customers were $2.7 billion in 2019, $3.1 billion in 2018 and $2.9 billion in 2017, $1.8 billion in 2016 and $1.8 billion in 2015.
(k)(h)Long-Lived Assets includes Forestlands and Plants, Properties and Equipment, net.

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INTERIM FINANCIAL RESULTS (UNAUDITED)
In millions, except per share amounts and stock prices1st
Quarter
 2nd
Quarter
 3rd
Quarter
 4th Quarter Year 1st
Quarter
 2nd
Quarter
 3rd
Quarter
 4th Quarter Year 
2017          
2019          
Net sales$5,132
  $5,383
  $5,517
  $5,711
  $21,743
 $5,643
  $5,667
  $5,568
  $5,498
  $22,376
 
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings217
(a)(23)(a) 457
(a) 197
(a) 848
(a)418
(a)334
(a) 452
(a) 400
(a) 1,604
(a)
Gain (loss) from discontinued operations17
(b)(4)(b)29
(b)(8)(b)34
(b)
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper Company209
(a-c)80
(a-c) 395
(a-c) 1,460
(a-c) 2,144
(a-c)424
(a-b)292
(a-c) 344
(a-c) 165
(a-b) 1,225
(a-c)
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company common shareholders:                    
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$0.47
(a)$0.20
(a) $0.89
(a) $3.56
(a) $5.11
(a)$1.06

$0.74

$0.88

$0.42

$3.10

Gain (loss) from discontinued operations0.04
(b)(0.01)(b)0.07
(b)(0.02)(b)0.08
(b)









Net earnings (loss)0.51
(a-c)0.19
(a-c) 0.96
(a-c) 3.54
(a-c) 5.19
(a-c)1.06

0.74

0.88

0.42

3.10

Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company common shareholders:                    
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations0.46
(a)0.20
(a)0.88
(a)3.52
(a)5.05
(a)1.05

0.73

0.87

0.42

3.07

Gain (loss) from discontinued operations0.04
(b)(0.01)(b)0.07
(b)(0.02)(b)0.08
(b)









Net earnings (loss)0.50
(a-c)0.19
(a-c) 0.95
(a-c) 3.50
(a-c) 5.13
(a-c)1.05

0.73

0.87

0.42

3.07

Dividends per share of common stock0.4625
  0.4625
  0.4625
  0.4750
  1.8625
 0.5000
  0.5000
  0.5000
  0.5125
  2.0125
 
Common stock prices          
High$58.86
  $57.24
  $58.95
  $58.96
  $58.96
 
Low49.62
  49.60
  51.28
  53.10
  49.60
 
2016          
2018          
Net sales$4,717
  $4,914
  $4,864
  $5,000
  $19,495
 $5,621
  $5,833
  $5,901
  $5,951
  $23,306
 
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity earnings307
(d)(76)(d) 320
(d) 244
(d) 795
(d) 356
(d)490
(d)553
(d)382
(d)1,781
(d)
Gain (loss) from discontinued operations4
(e)40
(e)34
(e)24
(e)102
(e)368
(e)(23)(e)
(e)
(e)345
(e)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper Company334
(d-f)40
(d-f)312
(d-f)218
(d-f)904
(d-f)729
(d-f)405
(d-f)562
(d-f)316
(d-f)2,012
(d-f)
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company common shareholders:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$0.80
(d)$0.00
(d) $0.68
(d) $0.47
(d) $1.95
(d) $0.87

$1.03

$1.38

$0.79

$4.07

Gain (loss) from discontinued operations0.01
(e)0.10
(e)0.08
(e)0.06
(e)0.25
(e)0.89

(0.05)




0.84

Net earnings (loss)0.81
(d-f)0.10
(d-f) 0.76
(d-f) 0.53
(d-f) 2.20
(d-f) 1.76

0.98

1.38

0.79

4.91

Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company common shareholders:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations0.80
(d)0.00
(d) 0.67
(d) 0.47
(d) 1.93
(d) 0.86

1.02

1.37

0.78

4.02

Gain (loss) from discontinued operations0.01
(e)0.10
(e)0.08
(e)0.06
(e)0.25
(e)0.88

(0.05)




0.83

Net earnings (loss)0.81
(d-f)0.10
(d-f) 0.75
(d-f) 0.53
(d-f) 2.18
(d-f) 1.74

0.97

1.37

0.78

4.85

Dividends per share of common stock0.4400
  0.4400
  0.4400
  0.4625
  1.7825
 0.4750
  0.4750
  0.4750
  0.5000
  1.9250
 
Common stock prices          
High$42.09
  $44.60
  $49.90
  $54.68
  $54.68
 
Low32.50
  39.24
  41.08
  43.55
  32.50
 



Note: International Paper's common shares (symbol: IP) are listed on the New York Stock Exchange.




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Note: Since basic and diluted earnings per share are computed independently for each period and category, full year per share amounts may not equal the sum of the four quarters. In addition, the unaudited selected consolidated financial data are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements and have been revised to reflect discontinued operations.




















Footnotes to Interim Financial Results
(a)Includes the following pre-tax charges (gains):
  2019
In millions Q1
 Q2 Q3 Q4
India impairment $
 $152
 $8
��$(1)
India divestiture transaction costs 
 
 
 3
Global Cellulose Fibers goodwill impairment 
 
 
 52
Litigation reserves 
 
 22
 19
Italian antitrust fine 
 
 32
 
Environmental remediation reserve adjustment 
 
 15
 10
(Gain) loss on sale of EMEA Packaging box plant (7) 
 
 1
EMEA Packaging business optimization 
 
 
 17
Multi-employer pension plan exit liability 16
 
 (7) 
Abandoned property removal 11
 11
 13
 15
Riverdale mill conversion costs 1
 1
 1
 2
Foreign VAT refund accrual including interest 
 
 
 (6)
Debt extinguishment costs 
 
 
 21
Gain on sale of previously closed Oregon mill site 
 
 (9) 
Overhead cost reduction initiative 
 
 21
 
Other items 
 1
 
 3
Non-operating pension expense 10
 8
 9
 9
Total $31
 $173
 $105
 $145

  2017
In millions Q1
 Q2 Q3 Q4
Gain on sale of investment in ArborGen $
 $(14) $
 $
Costs associated with the pulp business acquired in 2016 4
 5
 6
 18
Amortization of Weyerhaeuser inventory fair value step-up 14
 
 
 
Holmen bargain purchase gain (6) 
 
 
Abandoned property removal 2
 5
 7
 6
Kleen Products settlement 
 354
 
 
Asia Foodservice sale 
 9
 
 
Brazil Packaging wood supply accelerated amortization 
 
 10
 
Debt extinguishment costs 
 
 
 83
Interest income on income tax refund claims 
 (4) 
 (1)
Other items 
 (2) 
 
Non-operating pension expense 31
 34
 33
 386
Total $45
 $387
 $56
 $492

(b) Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business for the full year. Also includes the following pre-tax charges (gains):
(b)Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
  2019
In millions Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Luxembourg statutory tax rate change $
 $9
 $
 $
State income tax legislative changes 
 (3) 
 
Foreign tax audits 
 3
 
 
Internal investment restructuring 
 
 
 (53)
Foreign deferred tax valuation allowance 
 
 
 203
Tax impact of other special items (6) (5) (14) (28)
Tax impact of non-operating pension expense (2) (2) (2) (2)
Total $(8) $2
 $(16) $120

(c)Includes allocation of loss to noncontrolling interest of $7 million and $2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2019 and September 30, 2019, respectively, associated with the impairment of the net assets of our India Papers business.
  2017
In millions Q1
 Q2 Q3 Q4
North American Consumer Packaging transaction costs $
 $
 $
 $17
Non-operating pension expense 
 
 
 45
Total $
 $
 $
 $62

















 
(d)Includes the following pre-tax charges (gains):
(c) Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
  2018
In millions Q1
 Q2 Q3 Q4
Smurfit-Kappa acquisition proposal costs $
 $12
 $
 $
Legal settlement 9
 
 
 
Litigation settlement recovery 
 
 
 (5)
Environmental remediation reserve adjustment 
 
 9
 
EMEA Packaging business optimization 22
 26
 
 (1)
Abandoned property removal 9
 9
 6
 8
Riverdale mill conversion costs 
 
 5
 4
Brazil Packaging impairment 
 
 122
 
Debt extinguishment costs 
 
 
 10
Gain on sale of investment in Liaison Technologies 
 
 
 (31)
Non-operating pension expense 4
 36
 25
 429
Total $44
 $83
 $167
 $414


(e)Includes the following pre-tax charges (gains):
  2018
In millions Q1
 Q2 Q3 Q4
North American Consumer Packaging transaction costs $23
 $2
 $
 $
North American Consumer Packaging gain on transfer (516) 28
 
 
Total $(493) $30
 $
 $

  2017 
In millions Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 
International legal entity restructuring $15
 $
 $19
 $
 
Income tax refund claims 
 (85) 
 (28) 
Cash pension contribution 
 38
 
 
 
International Tax Law Change 
 
 
 9
 
Tax benefit of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 
 
 
 (1,222) 
Tax impact of other special items
 (8) (137) (8) (41) 
Total $7
 $(184) $11
 $(1,282) 

(d) Includes the following pre-tax charges (gains):
(f)Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
  2018
In millions Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
State income tax legislative changes $
 $9
 $
 $
Tax benefit of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 
 
 (36) 
Internal investment restructuring 
 
 
 19
Foreign tax audits 
 
 
 25
Tax impact of other special items
 (9) (13) (46) 3
Tax impact of non-operating pension expense (1) (9) (6) (107)
Total $(10) $(13) $(88) $(60)

  2016
In millions Q1
 Q2 Q3 Q4
Riegelwood mill conversion costs $9
 $
 $
 $
India Packaging evaluation write-off 
 
 17
 
Early debt extinguishment costs 
 
 29
 
Write-off of certain regulatory pre-engineering costs 
 
 8
 
Costs associated with the newly acquired pulp business 
 5
 7
 19
Asia Box impairment / restructuring 37
 28
 5
 
Gain on sale of investment in Arizona Chemical (8) 
 
 
Turkey mill closure
 
 
 
 7
Amortization of Weyerhaeuser inventory fair value step-up 
 
 
 19
Non-operating pension expense 44
 487
 42
 37
Total $82
 $520
 $108
 $82
(e) Includes the operating earnings of the North American Consumer Packaging business for the full year and a pre-tax charge of $8 million for a legal settlement associated with the xpedx business.
(f) Includes the following tax expenses (benefits):
  2016
In millions Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Cash pension contribution $
 $23
 $
 $
U.S. Federal audit (14) 
 
 
Brazil goodwill (57) 
 
 
International legal entity restructuring 
 (6) 
 
Luxembourg tax rate change 
 
 
 31
Tax impact of other special items (3) (10) (24) (14)
Total $(74) $7
 $(24) $17

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None.

EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. As of December 31, 2017,2019, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as(as that term is defined byin Rule 13a-15 under13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act.Act). Based upon this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2017.2019.
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Our management is responsible for establishingThe Company completed the acquisitions of four packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar), France (Torigni and maintaining adequate internal controlCabourg), and Spain (Tavernes de la Valldigna and Montblanc) over our financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is the process designed by, or under the supervisioncourse of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, and effected by our Board of Directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP). Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
pertain2019. Due to the maintenancetiming of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositionsthese acquisitions, we have excluded these businesses from our evaluation of our assets;
provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to allow for the preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors;
provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements; and
provide reasonable assurance as to the detection of fraud.
All internal control systems have inherent limitations, including the possibility of circumvention and overriding of controls, and therefore can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the designed control objectives. The Company’s internal control system is supported by written policies and procedures, contains self-monitoring mechanisms, and is audited by the internal audit function. Appropriate actions are taken by management to correct deficiencies as they are identified.
As of December 31, 2017, management has assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. In a report included on pages 37 and 38, management concluded thatFor the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of period ended December 31, 2017.
In making this assessment, we used the criteria described in “Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013)” issued by the Committee2019, sales and assets for these businesses represented approximately 0.4% of Sponsoring Organizationsnet sales and 0.6% of the Treadway Commission.total assets.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, with direct access to our Board of Directors through our Audit and Finance Committee, has audited the consolidated financial statements prepared by us. Deloitte & Touche LLP has also issued an attestation report on our internal control over financial reporting. Their report on the consolidated financial statements and attestation report are included in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report under the heading “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”
MANAGEMENT’S PROCESS TO ASSESS THE EFFECTIVENESS OF INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
To comply with the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, we followed a comprehensive compliance process across the enterprise to evaluate our internal control over financial reporting, engaging employees at all levels of the organization. Our internal control environment includes an enterprise-wide attitude of integrity and control consciousness that establishes a positive “tone at the top.” This is exemplified by our ethics program that includes long-standing principles and policies on ethical business conduct that require employees to maintain the highest ethical and legal standards in the conduct of our business, which have been distributed to all employees; a toll-free telephone helpline whereby any

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employee may report suspected violations of law or our policy; and an office of ethics and business practice. The internal control system further includes careful selection and training of supervisory and management personnel, appropriate delegation of authority and division of responsibility, dissemination of accounting and business policies throughout the Company, and an extensive program of internal audits with management follow-up. Our Board of Directors, assisted by the Audit and Finance Committee, monitors the integrity of our financial statements and financial reporting procedures, the performance of our internal audit function and independent auditors, and other matters set forth in its charter. The Committee, which consists of independent directors, meets regularly with representatives of management, and with the independent auditors and the Internal Auditor, with and without management representatives in attendance, to review their activities.
CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 20172019, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
See Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data on pages 37 and 38 of this Form 10-K for management's annual report on our internal control over financial reporting and the attestation report of our independent public accounting firm.




None.





Information concerning our directors is hereby incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement that will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) within 120 days of the close of our fiscal year. The Audit and Finance
Committee of the Board of Directors has at least one member who is a financial expert, as that term is defined in Item 401(d)(5) of Regulation S-K. Further information concerning the composition of the Audit and Finance Committee and our audit committee financial experts is hereby incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement that will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the close of our fiscal year. Information with respect to our executive officers is set forth on pages 5 and4 through 6 in Part I of this Form 10-K under the caption, Information About Our Executive Officers of the RegistrantOfficers.”.”
Executive officers of International Paper are elected to hold office until the next annual meeting of the Board of Directors following the annual meeting of shareholders and, until the election of successors, subject to removal by the Board.
The Company’s Code of Business Ethics (Code) is applicable to all employees of the Company, including the chief executive officer and senior financial officers, as well as the Board of Directors. We disclose any amendments to our Code and any waivers from a provision of our Code granted to our directors, chief executive officer and senior financial officers on our Internet Web sitewebsite within four business days following such amendment or waiver. To date, no waivers of the Code have been granted.
We make available free of charge on our Internet Web sitewebsite at www.internationalpaper.com,, and in print to any shareholder who requests them, our Corporate Governance Principles, our Code of Business Ethics and the Charters of our Audit and Finance Committee, Management Development and Compensation Committee, Governance Committee and Public Policy and Environment Committee. Requests for copies may be directed to the corporate secretary at our corporate headquarters.
Information with respect to compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act and our corporate governance is hereby incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement that will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the close of our fiscal year.


Information with respect to the compensation of executives and directors of the Company is hereby incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement that will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the close of our fiscal year.



A description of the security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management and equity

compensation plan information is hereby incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement that will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the close of our fiscal year.


A description of applicable information with respect to certain relationships and related transactions and director independence matters, is hereby incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement that will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the close of our fiscal year.

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Information with respect to fees paid to, and services rendered by, our principal accountant,independent registered public accounting firm, and our policies and procedures for pre-approving those services, is hereby incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement that will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the close of our fiscal year.


 
(1)
(2)
Financial Statement Schedules – The following additional financial data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. Schedules not included with this additional financial data have been omitted because they are not applicable, or the required information is shown in the consolidated financial statements or the notes thereto.


(4.1)(4.1)
  
(4.2)(4.2)
  
(4.3)(4.3)
  
(4.4)(4.4)
  
(4.5)(4.5)
  
(4.6)(4.6)
  
(4.7)(4.7)
(4.8)
(4.8)
  

(10.6)
  
(10.6)(10.7)
(10.7)
  
(10.8)(10.8)
(10.9)
(10.10)
(10.11)
(10.12)
(10.13)
  
(10.9)(10.14)
  

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(10.12
)
(10.17)
  
(10.13)(10.18)
  
(10.14)(10.19)
  
(10.15)(10.20)
(10.21)
(10.22)
(10.23)
  
(10.16)(10.24)
  
(10.17)(10.25)
  

86


(10.18)(10.26)
  
(10.19)(10.27)
  
(10.20)(10.28)
  
(10.21)(10.29)
  
(10.22)(10.30)
  
(10.23)(10.31)
  
(10.24)(10.32)


 


87


  
(101.INS)XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the inline XBRL document. *
  
(101.SCH)XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema *
  
(101.CAL)XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase *
  
(101.DEF)XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase *
  
(101.LAB)XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase *
  
(101.PRE)XBRL Extension Presentation Linkbase *
  


+ Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
* Filed herewith
** Furnished herewith

88


SCHEDULE II – VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE II – VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
(In millions)
  
For the Year Ended December 31, 2017
  
Balance at
Beginning
of Period
 Additions
Charged to
Earnings
 Additions
Charged to
Other
Accounts
 Deductions
from
Reserves
 Balance at
End of
Period
Description         
Reserves Applied Against Specific Assets Shown on Balance Sheet:         
Doubtful accounts – current$70
 $5
 $
 (2)(a) $73
Restructuring reserves6
 
 
 (4)(b) 2
 For the Year Ended December 31, 2016
  
Balance at
Beginning
of Period
 Additions
Charged to
Earnings
 Additions
Charged to
Other
Accounts
 Deductions
from
Reserves
 Balance at
End of
Period
Description         
Reserves Applied Against Specific Assets Shown on Balance Sheet:         
Doubtful accounts – current$70
 $9
 $
 (9)(a) $70
Restructuring reserves10
 3
 
 (7)(b) 6

 For the Year Ended December 31, 2015
  
Balance at
Beginning
of Period
 Additions
Charged to
Earnings
 Additions
Charged to
Other
Accounts
 Deductions
from
Reserves
 Balance at
End of
Period
Description         
Reserves Applied Against Specific Assets Shown on Balance Sheet:         
Doubtful accounts – current$82
 $11
 $
 (23)(a) $70
Restructuring reserves16
 5
 
 (11)(b) 10
(a)Includes write-offs, less recoveries, of accounts determined to be uncollectible and other adjustments.
(b)Includes payments and deductions for reversals of previously established reserves that were no longer required.


89


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY
   February 22, 2018
By:
/S/ SHARON R. RYAN
 February 19, 2020
 Sharon R. Ryan  
 
Senior Vice President, General Counsel
and Corporate Secretary
  
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Sharon R. Ryan and Deon VaughanMatthew Barron as his or her true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, acting alone, with full power of substitution and resubstitution for him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any or all amendments to this annual report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorney-in-fact full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite or necessary to be done, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact and agent, or his or her substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

     
Signature  Title Date
     
/S/    MARK S. SUTTON      
  Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer and Director February 22, 201819, 2020
Mark S. Sutton    
     
/S/    DAVIDWILLIAM J. BRONCZEK        URNS        
  Director February 22, 2018
David J. Bronczek
/S/    WILLIAM J. BURNS        
DirectorFebruary 22, 201819, 2020
Willliam J. Burns    
     
/S/    CHRISTOPHER M. CONNOR        
  Director February 22, 201819, 2020
Christopher M. Connor    
     
/S/    AHMET C. DORDUNCU      
  Director February 22, 201819, 2020
Ahmet C. Dorduncu    
     
/S/    ILENE S. GORDON      
  Director February 22, 201819, 2020
Ilene S. Gordon    
     
/S/    JACQUELINE C. HINMAN       ANDERS GUSTAFSSON      
  Director February 22, 201819, 2020
Anders Gustafsson


/S/    JACQUELINE C. HINMAN       
DirectorFebruary 19, 2020
Jacqueline C. Hinman    
     
/S/    JAY L. JOHNSON       s/ CLINTON A. LEWIS, JR.
  Director February 22, 2018
Jay L. Johnson

90


/s/ CLINTON A. LEWIS, JR.
DirectorFebruary 22, 201819, 2020
Clinton A. Lewis, Jr.    
     
/S/   KATHRYN D. SULLIVAN
  Director February 22, 201819, 2020
Kathryn D. Sullivan    
     
/S/    JOHN L. TOWNSEND III       J. STEVEN WHISLER        
  Director February 22, 2018
John L. Townsend III
/S/    J. STEVEN WHISLER        
DirectorFebruary 22, 201819, 2020
J. Steven Whisler    
     
/S/    RAY G. YOUNG      
  Director February 22, 201819, 2020
Ray G. Young    
     
/S/    GLENN R. LANDAUTIMOTHY S. NICHOLLS
  Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer February 22, 201819, 2020
Glenn R. LandauTimothy S. Nicholls    
     
/S/    VINCENT P. BONNOT       
  Vice President – Finance and Controller February 22, 201819, 2020
Vincent P. Bonnot    

91

APPENDIX I

APPENDIX I
20172019 LISTING OF FACILITIES
(all facilities are owned except noted otherwise)
PRINTING PAPERS         Rome, Georgia        Stockton, California
Savannah, Georgia         Tracy, California
Uncoated Papers         Cayuga, Indiana         Golden, Colorado
Uncoated Papers   U.S.:         Cedar Rapids, Iowa         Wheat Ridge, Colorado
        U.S.:Selma, Alabama (Riverdale Mill)         Henderson, Kentucky         Putnam, Connecticut
        Selma, Alabama (Riverdale Mill)Ticonderoga, New York         Maysville, Kentucky         Orlando, Florida
        Ticonderoga, New YorkEastover, South Carolina         Bogalusa, Louisiana         Plant City, Florida
        Eastover,Georgetown, South Carolina         Campti, Louisiana         Tampa, Florida leased
        Georgetown,Sumter, South Carolina         Mansfield, Louisiana         Columbus, Georgia
 Sumter, South Carolina         Vicksburg, Mississippi         Forest Park, Georgia
   International:         Valliant, Oklahoma         Griffin, Georgia
       International:Luiz Antônio, São Paulo, Brazil         Springfield, Oregon         Kennesaw, Georgia leased
       Luiz Antônio,Mogi Guacu, São Paulo, Brazil         Orange, Texas         Lithonia, Georgia
       Mogi Guacu, São Paulo,Três Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil           Savannah, Georgia
       Três Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul, BrazilSaillat, France    International:         Stone Mountain,Tucker, Georgia leased
       Saillat, France
       Kadiam, India 2
         Franco da Rocha, São Paulo, Brazil         Tucker, Georgia
       Kadiam, India        Nova Campina, São Paulo, BrazilAurora, Illinois (3 locations)
       Rajahmundry, India2
         Paulinia,Nova Campina, São Paulo, Brazil         Bedford Park, Illinois (2 locations) 1 leased
       Kwidzyn, Poland         Veracruz, MexicoPaulinia, São Paulo, Brazil         Belleville, Illinois
       Svetogorsk, Russia         Kenitra, MoroccoVeracruz, Mexico         Carol Stream, Illinois
          Madrid, SpainKenitra, Morocco         Des Plaines, Illinois
GLOBAL CELLULOSE FIBERS         Madrid, Spain         Lincoln, Illinois
  Corrugated Container         Montgomery, Illinois
Pulp    U.S.:Corrugated Container         Northlake, Illinois
   U.S.:    Bay Minette, AlabamaU.S.:         Rockford, Illinois
        Cantonment, Florida (Pensacola Mill)         Decatur,Bay Minette, Alabama         Butler, Indiana
        Flint River, Georgia         Dothan,Decatur, Alabama leased         Crawfordsville, Indiana
        Port Wentworth, Georgia         Huntsville,Dothan, Alabama leased         Fort Wayne, Indiana
        Columbus, Mississippi         Huntsville, Alabama        Indianapolis, Indiana (2 locations)
        New Bern, North CarolinaConway, Arkansas         Hammond,Saint Anthony, Indiana
        New Bern,Riegelwood, North Carolina         Fort Smith, Arkansas (2 locations)         Indianapolis,Tipton, Indiana (2 locations)
        Riegelwood, NorthEastover, South Carolina         Russellville, Arkansas (2 locations)         Saint Anthony, IndianaCedar Rapids, Iowa
        Eastover,Georgetown, South Carolina         Tolleson, Arizona         Tipton, IndianaWaterloo, Iowa
        Georgetown, South CarolinaFranklin, Virginia         Yuma, Arizona         Cedar Rapids, IowaGarden City, Kansas
 Franklin, Virginia         Anaheim, California         Waterloo, IowaKansas City, Kansas
   International:         Buena Park, California leased         Garden City, KansasBowling Green, Kentucky
        International:Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada         Camarillo, California         Kansas City, KansasLexington, Kentucky
        Grand Prairie, Albert, CanadaSaillat, France         Carson, California         Bowling Green,Louisville, Kentucky
        Saillat, FranceGdansk, Poland         Cerritos, California leased         Lexington,Walton, Kentucky
        Gdansk,Kwidzyn, Poland         Compton, California         Louisville, KentuckyBogalusa, Louisiana
        Kwidzyn, PolandSvetogorsk, Russia         Elk Grove, California         Walton, KentuckyLafayette, Louisiana
 Svetogorsk, Russia         Exeter, California         Bogalusa,Shreveport, Louisiana
INDUSTRIAL PACKAGING         Gilroy, California (2 locations)         Lafayette,Springhill, Louisiana
INDUSTRIAL PACKAGING         Los Angeles, California         Shreveport, Louisiana
        Modesto, California        Springhill, LouisianaAuburn, Maine
Containerboard         Ontario, California        Auburn, Maine
   U.S.:        Salinas,Modesto, California         Three Rivers, Michigan
   U.S.:        Ontario, California        Arden Hills, Minnesota
Pine Hill, Alabama        Salinas, California        Austin, Minnesota
        Prattville, Alabama         Sanger, California         Arden Hills, Minnesota
        Prattville, Alabama        San Leandro, California leased        Austin,Fridley, Minnesota
        Cantonment, Florida (Pensacola Mill)         Santa Fe Springs, California (2 locations)         Fridley, Minnesota
        Rome, Georgia        Stockton, CaliforniaMinneapolis, Minnesota leased

A-1



        Shakopee, Minnesota         Laurens, South Carolina          Silao,San Jose Iturbide, Mexico
        White Bear Lake, Minnesota         Lexington, South Carolina          Villa Nicolas Romero,Santa Catarina, Mexico
        Houston, Mississippi         Ashland City, Tennessee leased          Zapopan,Silao, Mexico
        Jackson, Mississippi         Cleveland, Tennessee          Agadir, MoroccoToluca, Mexico
        Magnolia, Mississippi leased         Elizabethton, Tennessee leased          Casablanca, Morocco
Villa Nicolas Romero, Mexico 1
        Olive Branch, Mississippi         Morristown, Tennessee          Kenitra, MoroccoZapopan, Mexico
        Fenton, Missouri         Murfreesboro, Tennessee          Tangier,Agadir, Morocco
        Kansas City, Missouri         Amarillo, Texas          Almeria, SpainCasablanca, Morocco
        Maryland Heights, Missouri         Carrollton, Texas (2 locations)          Barcelona, SpainTangier, Morocco
        North Kansas City, Missouri leased         Edinburg, Texas          Bilbao, SpainOvar, Portugal
        St. Joseph, Missouri         El Paso, Texas          Gandia,Barcelona, Spain
        St. Louis, Missouri         Ft. Worth, Texas leased          Las Palmas,Bilbao, Spain
        Omaha, Nebraska         Grand Prairie, Texas          Madrid,Gandia, Spain
        Barrington, New Jersey         Hidalgo, Texas          Tenerife,Las Palmas, Spain
        Bellmawr, New Jersey         McAllen, Texas          Adana, TurkeyMadrid, Spain
        Milltown, New Jersey         San Antonio, Texas (2 locations)          Bursa. TurkeyMontblanc, Spain
        Spotswood, New Jersey         Sealy, Texas          Corlu, TurkeyTavernes de la Valldigna, Spain
        Thorofare, New Jersey         Waxahachie, Texas          Corum, TurkeyTenerife, Spain
        Binghamton, New York         Lynchburg, Virginia          Gebze,Adana, Turkey
        Buffalo, New York         Petersburg, Virginia           Izmir,Bursa, Turkey
        Rochester, New York         Richmond, Virginia 
Corlu, Turkey 4
        Scotia, New York         Moses Lake, Washington RecyclingCorum, Turkey
        Utica, New York         Olympia, Washington    U.S.:Gebze, Turkey
Charlotte, North Carolina (2 locations) 1 leased         Yakima, Washington         Phoenix, ArizonaIzmir, Turkey
        Lumberton, North Carolina         Fond du Lac, Wisconsin  Fremont, California
        Manson, North Carolina         Manitowoc, Wisconsin         Norwalk, CaliforniaRecycling
        Newton, North Carolina      West Sacramento, CaliforniaU.S.:
        Statesville, North Carolina    International:         Itasca, IllinoisPhoenix, Arizona
        Byesville, Ohio          Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil         Des Moines, IowaFremont, California
        Delaware, Ohio          Paulinia, São Paulo, Brazil         Wichita, KansasNorwalk, California
        Eaton, Ohio          Rio Verde, Goias, Brazil         Roseville, MinnesotaWest Sacramento, California
        Madison, Ohio          Suzano, São Paulo, Brazil         Omaha, NebraskaItasca, Illinois
        Marion, Ohio          Rancagua, Chile         Charlotte, North CarolinaDes Moines, Iowa
        Marysville, Ohio leased          Arles, France         Beaverton, OregonWichita, Kansas
        Middletown, OhioCabourg, France        Roseville, Minnesota
        Mt. Vernon, Ohio          Chalon-sur-Saone, France         Springfield, Oregon leasedOmaha, Nebraska
        Mt. Vernon,Newark, Ohio 
         Creil, France3
         Carrollton, TexasCharlotte, North Carolina
        Newark,Streetsboro, Ohio          LePuy, France (Espaly Box Plant)         Salt Lake City, UtahBeaverton, Oregon
        Streetsboro,Wooster, Ohio          Mortagne, France         Richmond, VirginiaSpringfield, Oregon leased
        Wooster, OhioOklahoma City, OklahomaSaint Amand, France        Carrollton, Texas
        Beaverton, Oregon (3 locations)          Guadeloupe, French West Indies         Kent, WashingtonSalt Lake City, Utah
        Oklahoma City, OklahomaHillsboro, Oregon          Bellusco, Italy         Richmond, Virginia
        Beaverton,Portland, Oregon (3 locations)          Catania, Italy         International:Kent, Washington
        Hillsboro,Salem, Oregon leased          Pomezia, Italy
        Biglerville, Pennsylvania (2 locations)         San Felice, Italy   International:
        Eighty-four, Pennsylvania         Apodaco (Monterrey), Mexico leased         Monterrey, Mexico leased
        Portland, OregonHazleton, Pennsylvania          San Felice, ItalyIxtaczoquitlan, Mexico         Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico leased
        Salem, Oregon leasedApodaco (Monterrey), Mexico leased
Biglerville, Pennsylvania (2 locations)         Ixtaczoquitlan, MexicoBags
        Eighty-four,Kennett Square, Pennsylvania          Juarez, Mexico leased  U.S.:
        Hazleton, Pennsylvania
Los Mochis, Mexico
        Buena Park, California
        Kennett Square, Pennsylvania         Puebla, Mexico leased        Beaverton, Oregon
        Lancaster, Pennsylvania          Reynosa,Los Mochis, Mexico  Grand Prairie, Texas
        Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania          San Jose Iturbide,Puebla, Mexico leased  
        Georgetown, South Carolina          Santa Catarina,Reynosa, Mexico  



A-2



CONSUMER PACKAGINGBags DISTRIBUTION
   U.S.:
        Buena Park, California
        Beaverton, Oregon
        Grand Prairie, Texas  
     
Coated Paperboard IP Asia
   U.S.:  International:
          Augusta, Georgia 2
         Guangzhou, China
          Prosperity, South Carolina 2
         Hong Kong, China
          Texarkana, Texas 2
         Shanghai, China
         Japan  
   International:  Korea  
          Kwidzyn, Poland  Singapore  
          Svetogorsk, Russia  Taiwan  
   Thailand  
FoodserviceDISTRIBUTION  Vietnam
   U.S.:
          Visalia, California 2
FOREST PRODUCTS
          Shelbyville, Illinois 2
          Kenton, Ohio 2
Forest Resources  
   International:
IP Asia  
  International:  Approximately 329,400 acres  
          Shanghai,   Guangzhou, China 1
          in Brazil
          Tianjin, China 1
leased
    
   Bogota, Colombia
          Cheshire, EnglandHong Kong, China leased2
    
   Shanghai, China leased
   Japan leased
   Korea leased
   Singapore leased
FOREST RESOURCES
  International:
          Approximately 329,400 acres
          in Brazil    
     
     
1) Sold September 2017Closed July 2019    
2) Transferred January 2018Sold October 2019    
3) Sold March 2019    
4) Closed April 2019    
     
     

A-3

APPENDIX II

APPENDIX II
20172019 CAPACITY INFORMATION


 
(in thousands of short tons except as noted)U.S. EMEA Americas,
other
than U.S.
 India TotalU.S. EMEA Americas,
other
than U.S.
 Total
Industrial Packaging                
Containerboard (a)
13,488
 45
 363
 
 13,896
13,507
 302
 364
 14,173
Coated Paperboard
 431
 
 
 431

 443
 
 443
Total Industrial Packaging13,488
 476
 363
 
 14,327
13,507
 745
 364
 14,616
Global Cellulose Fibers                
Dried Pulp (in thousands of metric tons)
2,912
 302
 535
 
 3,749
2,988
 268
 489
 3,745
Printing Papers                
Uncoated Freesheet & Bristols (b)
1,990
 1,193
 1,135
 266
 4,584
1,959
 1,152
 1,135
 4,246
Newsprint
 312
 
 
 312

 96
 
 96
Total Printing Papers1,990
 1,505
 1,135
 266
 4,896
1,959
 1,248
 1,135
 4,342
 
(a) In addition to Containerboard, this also includes saturated kraft, kraft bag, and gypsum.
(b) In addition to Uncoated Freesheet and Bristols, includes bleached multiwall bag and plate.



  
Forest Resources 
We own, manage or have an interest in approximately 1.41.2 million acres of forestlands worldwide. These forestlands and associated acres are located in the following regions:(M Acres)
Brazil329

We have harvesting rights in: 
Russia1,047862

Poland



Total1,3761,191



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