Key Trends Paper 2025
Key Trends & Developments in 2025
Growth Drivers: India's packaging sector is booming (processed foods), and the printing & writing (P&W) segment benefits from India's new education policy, boosting literacy and demand.
Sustainability Focus: Companies are increasing the use of bamboo and agro-residues (like bagasse) and investing in recycling, aligning with net-zero goals and new plastic-waste rules.
Technological Innovation: Automation, AI (like JMC Paper Tech's MillMind™), and new tech are addressing labor gaps and improving efficiency, with a focus on design-for-recycling.
Cost Pressures: High wood pulp and energy costs are impacting profitability, leading to price hikes by manufacturers to offset inflation.
Market Expansion: India projects increased production capacity, moving towards 32 million tonnes by 2030, with significant investments and rising per capita consumption potential.
Regional Highlights
India: A hotbed for growth, seeing massive investment, increased bamboo usage, and innovation at events like Paperex 2025.
Europe: Facing higher energy/raw material costs, making it less competitive, but showing signs of recovery.
Latin America: Expected to see strong market gains, particularly in packaging, notes Fortune Business Insights.
Challenges
Labor Shortages: Aging workforce and reduced participation require automation and better HR strategies, according to Pulp and Paper Technology.
Raw Material Volatility: Fluctuations in pulp and agro-residue costs remain a concern.