India’s paper and packaging industry marked a significant milestone as Paperex 2025 opened its 17th edition at Yashobhoomi (IICC), Dwarka, New Delhi. Recognized as the world’s largest trade platform for the pulp, paper, packaging, tissue, and allied sectors, the event brought together over 675 exhibitors from 28 countries and attracted more than 33,000 trade visitors. Organized by Informa Markets in India in collaboration with IARPMA and supported by the World Paper Forum, the four-day showcase continues to serve as a key catalyst for business growth, innovation, and sector-wide collaboration.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Pavan Khaitan, President of the Indian Pulp & Paper Technical Association (IPPTA), along with senior representatives from Indian and international paper associations and leading industry organizations. Shripad Yesso Naik, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Power and Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, addressed the gathering virtually, commending the event for strengthening India’s contribution to sustainable manufacturing. He noted that India’s paper demand is rising by 7–8% annually and that production capacity is projected to grow from 24 million tonnes to 32 million tonnes by 2030. He highlighted the industry’s increasing adoption of renewable energy, digitalization, recycling efficiency, and carbon-neutral strategies as critical pillars supporting India’s development vision for 2047.
Industry leaders echoed key themes focused on sustainability, resource availability, technology readiness, and policy support. Pawan Agarwal, President of the Indian Paper Manufacturers Association, acknowledged the growing use of bamboo—which now accounts for nearly 25–50% of the total fiber mix—following policy reforms enabling its free movement and cultivation.
Rahul Khanna, President of the Indian Newsprint Manufacturers Association, remarked that the sector is navigating a new phase of global volatility and requires consistent policy intervention, investment in modern technology, and skilled talent to remain competitive. Pramod Agarwal, President of the Indian Agro & Recycled Paper Mills Association, pointed out that despite being home to nearly 800 mills, close to 200 remain non-operational largely due to fiber shortages, GST complexity, and limitations on waste-paper imports. With domestic recovery at only 50% and waste-paper imports nearing 10 million tonnes annually, he emphasized strengthening collection systems and agro-residue-based fiber as a priority.
Commenting on global trends, Pavan Khaitan noted that fiber-based materials are advancing rapidly due to circularity, e-commerce demand, and hygiene awareness. Digital mills, AI-enabled processes, and specialty grades are shaping a new competitive era, positioning India favourably in global value chains. Adding to this perspective, N Gopalratnam, Chairman of Seshasayee Paper and Boards Ltd, highlighted that farm forestry now supports up to 95% of India’s fiber requirement—an achievement unmatched globally and a defining marker of the sector’s circular economic strength.
International voices echoed similar sentiment. Mikael Forslund, President & CEO of the Elof Hansson Group, underscored the growing global need for responsible production models, recyclable materials, clean water systems, and circular material efficiency. He remarked that India’s momentum and technology adoption position it as a key contributor to the future paper economy. Peter Hall, President of IMEA, Informa Markets, shared that Paperex 2025 is the first edition under the Informa Markets banner following the acquisition of Hyve India, and that the transition has further expanded the event’s global relevance with participation from more than 700 brands. He noted that even in an increasingly digital world, paper, tissue, and packaging remain essential and continue to evolve with sustainability expectations and advanced manufacturing.
Reflecting on market potential, Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director of Informa Markets in India, stated that India currently recycles nearly 68% of its paper and has vast headroom for growth, with per-capita consumption at 15 kg compared to the global average of 57 kg. He emphasized that India’s paper and packaging market is projected to reach USD 16.64 billion by 2028, supported by innovation pipelines, sustainable forestry, and rising domestic demand. He added that Paperex 2025, along with curated platforms such as the New Trends & Technologies Conference and the India Innovation Pavilion, continues to accelerate industry progress, technology exchange, investment, and new business partnerships.
Major industry players participating in this year’s edition include JK Paper, TNPL, Trident Group, APRIL Fiber Resource, BILT Graphic Paper, Andhra Paper, Orient Paper, and West Coast Paper, covering the full value chain from pulp sourcing to finished packaging and conversion solutions. With global momentum, industry alignment, and a strong focus on circularity and modernization, Paperex 2025 reinforces India’s position as one of the most dynamic and future-ready paper markets in the world.
