Paper does not ship well, as it is both bulky and susceptible to humidity.

ECONOMIST: Paper

On the JDS Kongo, one of four Aegis electronic warfare destroyers (two more are under construction) that will be fitted with Japan's first antiballistic missile system, elderly ladies cooled themselves with paper fans bearing the ship's name.

FORBES: Matinee Maneuvers

And tissue has another advantage for domestic manufacturers: Unlike other paper, tissue paper isn't economical to ship from overseas because of its bulk.

WSJ: Tissue Rolls to Mill's Rescue