We are a company that started almost two decades ago with a vision to provide practical and long lasting solutions to the burgeoning paper industry in India by creating a fusion of chemistry applications and local industry environment and requirements.
INDUSTRIES
Packaging & Board
Printing & Writing
Recycled Fiber Enzymes
Water & Waste Water
Internal Sizing & Surface Sizing
Retention and Drainage
Dry Strength Resin
Paper Machine Deformer and DE-AERATION
Surface Additives
Felt Cleaning and Conditioning Program
Microbiological & Deposit Control Program
Wet Strength Resin
Stickies Control program
Deinking chemicals
Enzymes
Starch(Native, Modified cationic/oxidized)
Coating thickener
Coating lubricant
Dispersants
Antisclants
Flocculants
Coagulants
Pulp mill Cooking-aid
Pulp mill Wash-aid
Odor control
Everything You Need to Achieve Peak Plant Performance
081 Abu Dhabi National Paper Mill Plans to Expand Market Footprint
083 BTG Group Continues to Invest in India INTERVIEW
CIRCULAR ECONOMY
087 Lamacart: Strategic Partner of Green Economy
091 ANDRITZ: Setting the Scene for Profitable Growth
094 Valmet: At the Heart of TNPL’s Hardwood Kraft Pulp Line
097 Transforming Wastewater from Agro-based Paper Production into Sustainable Revenue
A Tribute to Resilience of Indian Pulp and Paper Industry
From a modest start to becoming a trusted industry voice, Paper Mart’s 25year journey mirrors the transformation of India’s pulp and paper sector. Through shifting regulations, technological leaps, and sustainability milestones, it has been both a witness and a catalyst.
Mr. Priyank Jain, CEO, Tulip 3p Media Pvt. Ltd.
My first step into industrial journalism began with hope, while the second was shadowed by uncertainty. In retrospect, my journey echoes Andy Dufresne’s words from The Shawshank Redemption: “Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.” My journey with the Indian pulp and paper industry has been one of hope, with uncertainties fading with each step forward.
Paper Mart took root in 2000. My father launched the magazine as a simple idea to put forth an industryfocused publication, a voice that wasn’t just about news but about meaningful conversations. Being intimately connected to the paper industry (through his packaging business), he was aware there was no single platform where industry professionals could exchange ideas, discuss challenges, or track emerging trends. The industry was growing, but in silos. Paper Mart attempted to fill that void.
My memories of the pre-Paper Mart era (late 1990s) are of a very different time. My awareness of the industry was nascent, focused solely on packaging paper. Later, by the time I officially started at Paper Mart in 2003, this nascent interest had already blossomed into a strong desire to understand the complex working of this gargantuanmachine-propelled industry. During this quest, while rummaging through a pile of industry reports and trade journals, I became aware that there was no single, credible, overarching source of all necessary information about the Indian pulp and paper industry. My immediate goal became clear: to establish Paper Mart as a reliable, high-quality, and accurate publication.
At first, it began as a small operation in the office of our packaging business. A handful of us, untrained in journalistic ways, worked long hours, gathering stories, reaching out to industry leaders, and piecing together issues one at a time. The
response was promising. The sector needed a voice. What we didn’t realize was how much the industry itself would change over the next 25 years, and how closely our journey would align with its transformation.
Establishing Paper Mart as a credible voice wasn’t easy. In an industry where most communication happened behind closed doors, convincing key players to share insights was a slow process. Many saw us as just another trade magazine. We had to prove our value, not just by reporting news but by offering in-depth analysis that mattered to decision-makers. Content was another hurdle. Unlike industries with abundant research, data in the pulp and paper sector wasn’t readily available.
We had to build our own network, attending national and global conferences, forging relationships with mill owners, and developing exclusive insights. In the early years, running a niche industry magazine without a steady stream of advertisers required patience. But persistence paid off. With hope and grit, we continued honing our editorial skills and gathering believable data to weave trustworthy stories that mattered. Once we earned the trust of industry leaders, Paper Mart became a publication they began enjoying and relying on.
Paper Mart joined hands with the Indian pulp and paper industry at the turn of the 21st century, a century poised for unprecedented technological disruptions and a surge in environmental activism, at a rate like never before. Little did I know that this journey would become a long and arduous trek, not just for me but for the industry itself. Swept up in the whirlwind of technological transformations and the growing demands of environmental compliance, the industry pushed us continuously to raise the bar for editorial excellence, leaving no stone unturned to keep
professionals informed. While I cannot recount every transformative moment here, some deserve special mention.
Back then, energy efficiency wasn’t a major concern. Mills operated with higher power consumption and significant water usage, as environmental considerations were not yet a primary focus in paper production. Then came the Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environmental Protection (CREP) in 2003. It forced mills to take a hard look at their processes, introducing new wastewater discharge limits and AOX reduction measures. This was the beginning of a shift, but it didn’t happen overnight. Companies resisted. Paper Mart witnessed the industry’s discomfort and channeled their anguish through our stories. Some adapted early, while others waited until compliance became unavoidable.
Another norm that put the industry on the spot was effluent management which became a pressing issue, particularly with the pulp and paper industry›s significant water consumption and discharge. The Charter for Water Recycling and Pollution Prevention in Pulp and Paper Industries, introduced in the early 2010s, issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), set strict water usage and effluent discharge standards. Mills, particularly those in the Ganga River Basin, were required to implement advanced water treatment technologies and achieve zero liquid discharge (ZLD) wherever possible.
Howsoever challenging it was, this regulation played a crucial role in shaping the industry›s approach to wastewater recycling and pollution control. In response, many mills invested in modern effluent treatment plants (ETPs), membrane filtration systems, and anaerobic digesters to comply with the stringent norms. Closedloop water systems, which reduced
freshwater intake and maximized reuse, gained prominence in the late 2010s. Alongside, Paper Mart shifted its coverage of these subjects from optional to a central focus, gradually earning industry-wide adulation for its in-depth stories on sustainability practices.
The next big push came with the Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) scheme in 2012. Suddenly, energy efficiency wasn’t just an environmental necessity; rather, it was an economic one. Mills had clear targets to reduce energy consumption, and those that exceeded their goals could trade energy-saving certificates. Around the same time, discussions on closed-loop water systems and chlorine-free bleaching became more serious. By the mid-2010s, many mills widely adopted elemental chlorine-free (ECF) bleaching, with some mills even switching to totally chlorine-free (TCF) processes. Water recycling became the norm rather than the exception. Paper Mart covered all diligently, and its thesaurus of the industry-specific terminologies and jargons by and by became colossal.
I watched in amazement how major competitors deftly handled these challenges, staying ahead of the curve. Producers like BILT, JK Paper, West Coast Paper Mills, Emami Paper Mills, Andhra Paper Mills, and Orient Paper & Industries proactively introduced advanced paper manufacturing technologies, spearheaded eco-friendly initiatives (waste reduction, optimized water usage), and built a modern, sustainable, and competitive Indian paper industry.
On this roller-coaster voyage, Paper Mart witnessed enough cacophony around raw materials, or more precisely, raw material sourcing. The dependency on forest-based raw materials was fast becoming unsustainable until it was not sustainable at all. The National
Forest Policy amendments of 2016 played a role in pushing for agroforestry and social forestry. Mills began sourcing more pulpwood from farmers instead of relying on dwindling forest reserves. Companies such as ITC Limited, JK Paper, Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited (TNPL), Century Pulp & Paper, West Coast Paper Mills, Andhra Paper, and Seshasayee Paper and Boards Limited (SPB) became frontrunners in agroforestry and social forestry initiatives.
By the early 2010s, non-wood fibers like bagasse and wheat straw gained traction. The initiative by TNPL in 1985 to use bagasse for paper production, a pioneering effort, continued to grow. The movement was taken further by Seshasayee Paper and Boards Ltd., which embraced agro-based (bagasse and bamboo) raw materials to promote sustainability. Here, Trident Limited led the way in utilizing wheat straw as an alternative to wood pulp, and revolutionized the industry by becoming the world’s largest manufacturer of wheat straw-based paper, setting new benchmarks in eco-friendly production.
Around the same time, Naini Papers and Bindals Papers entered the sector, focusing on using agricultural residues like bagasse and wheat straw. Century Pulp and Paper expanded the scope of sustainable manufacturing by integrating multiple raw materials, including agro waste. The shift to non-wood paper production was strengthened by Ruchira Papers and Yash Papers’ use of wheat straw and sugarcane waste, and by Nath Pulp & Paper and Pudumjee Pulp & Paper Mills’ adoption of agro-based raw materials.
Together, these mills have reshaped India’s paper industry, reducing dependence on forest resources and promoting a greener, more sustainable future. Sustainability was no longer just a regulatory
requirement; it became a business advantage. Over the past 15 years, industry collaboration with farmers has resulted in 0.7 million hectares of pulpwood plantations, primarily on degraded land, according to the IPMA.
The last few years have been about automation and AI-driven process optimization. Industry 4.0 is no longer a buzzword; it’s happening. The most forward-thinking mills now use IoT-based monitoring, automated process controls, and real-time data analytics to optimize production. This shift to smart manufacturing is perhaps the biggest opportunity in the coming years.
Looking back, the industry’s biggest challenge wasn’t just technology or regulation. It was perception. People have long seen paper as an environmental adversary. That narrative ignores the massive sustainability efforts the industry has undertaken and its metamorphosis into a sector that sustainably produces an inherently sustainable product. We’ve worked to change that perception, highlighting the innovations. Not to say, the efficiency gains and move towards a circular economy were justifiably prodded, forcefully and continuously, by Paper Mart for this shift in perception.
Through all of this, Paper Mart adapted. Our biggest milestone was shifting from a purely print magazine to a multi-channel platform. In the early years, a bi-monthly issue was enough. But as the industry evolved, so did the way people consumed information. We expanded into digital reports and in-depth industry analysis. Going digital meant reaching a global audience, making insights accessible in real time.
Over the years, we have built a strong digital presence, ensuring that industry insights and trends; now, discussions are available at the click of a button. With a high-quality
website, engaging social media platforms, and a commitment to digital-first content, the magazine has positioned itself as a leading information hub duly acknowledged by the industry.
That is not all; Paper Mart’s success in serving the industry provided the foundation for our expertise in aggregating and analyzing industrial information, which later encouraged diversification into publications, exhibitions, and conferences serving other vital Indian industries. Today, these publications and shows borrow their global success from their excellent predecessor, Paper Mart.
Twenty-five years in, Paper Mart is still evolving, just like the industry it serves. What started as a small publication has become a vital part of the sector’s transformation. As the industry embraces newer technologies and sustainability measures, we will continue to evolve, capturing the pulse of this everchanging sector. The conversation isn’t over. If anything, it’s only getting more interesting.
With Paper Mart’s Help, the Industry Remains Wellinformed, Forward-thinking
Since its inception, Paper Mart has been a vital force in the pulp and paper industry as a medium that informs, educates and inspires. Its unwavering commitment to knowledge dissemination and insightful journalism has ensured the industry remains wellinformed, forward-thinking and prepared for future challenges.
The in-depth coverage of market dynamics and technological advancements have been instrumental in strengthening industry discourse and facilitating strategic decision-making. Having
closely followed Paper Mart’s contributions over the years, I greatly value their role in fostering dialogue on sustainability, market trends and innovation. By bringing together key voices across the industry on one platform, it has helped shape policies, business strategies and best practices. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire Paper Mart team on reaching the 25year milestone. We look forward to your continued contributions to the industry and wish you many more years of success and impact.
Congratulations on 25 Glorious Years of Paper Mart!
Heartiest congratulations to Paper Mart on completing 25 remarkable years of excellence! This milestone is a testament to the magazine’s invaluable contribution to the growth and progress of the paper and allied industries in India.
Over the years, Paper Mart has established itself as a trusted source of industry news, insights, and trends. Its wide-ranging coverage—spanning technological advancements, market developments, sustainability initiatives, and policy updates— has provided stakeholders with critical information to navigate an evolving industry landscape.
The magazine’s commitment to in-depth reporting and expert
Mr. Satyapal Gupta,
Group Chairman, Narsingh Dass & Co.
analysis has not only educated readers but has also fostered meaningful discussions within the industry. Moreover, the quality of content and the high standards of printing have set a benchmark in trade publications. The visually appealing layouts and wellresearched articles reflect the dedication and professionalism of your entire editorial team.
Commitment to Accuracy and Meaningful Reporting
Reaching 25 years is a significant achievement and reflects Paper Mart’s dedication to the industry. Over the years, it has kept professionals informed and connected, becoming a trusted source of knowledge. This success is also a credit to Shri Praveen Kumar Jain and Shri Priyank Jain.
From the first issue to today, Paper Mart has provided relevant and well-researched content, helping businesses stay updated
As Paper Mart celebrates this silver jubilee, we extend our best wishes for many more years of success, innovation, and impactful journalism. May the magazine continue to inspire, inform, and contribute to the sustainable growth of the Indian paper industry. and make informed decisions. Its commitment to accuracy and meaningful reporting has made it a respected name in trade journalism. As Paper Mart marks this milestone, we congratulate the entire team, past and present, for their hard work and dedication. Wishing you continued success in the years ahead.
Cheers to the next 25 years and beyond!
Mr. Pawan Agarwal, CMD, Naini Papers Limited
Mr. R. N. Agarwal,
Chairman & Managing Director, N R Agarwal Industries Limited
Paper Mart’s Focus on Quality Content Is Informative & Inspiring
Paper Mart has been a key player in the pulp and paper industry for 25 years, providing valuable insights and updates that have helped shape the sector. Its commitment to delivering quality content has brought together manufacturers, suppliers, and industry leaders, fostering collaboration and growth.
In an ever-evolving industry, Paper
Mart’s focus on quality content, industry updates, and its proactive engagement with the paper industry has not only informed but also inspired. The magazine has been instrumental in promoting innovation, sustainability, and best practices.
I look forward to seeing it continue to support and inspire the industry in the years ahead.
Played a Role in Bringing Together Suppliers, Buyers, and Technology Providers
Paper Mart has been a valuable part of the pulp and paper industry. It has kept businesses informed, helped people connect, and increased market visibility.
The magazine has consistently covered industry trends, technology, and policy changes. By featuring interviews, success stories, and case studies, it has encouraged knowledge-sharing and practical solutions for industry challenges. It has also played a role in bringing together suppliers, buyers, and technology providers through its coverage of events and expos.
Sustainability and responsible resource use have been important themes in Paper Mart, sparking discussions on waste management and energy efficiency. Beyond providing information, it has helped businesses showcase their products and services, making it a trusted source for industry professionals.
With its continued focus on industry growth, Paper Mart remains a key partner in shaping the future of the pulp and paper sector.
I am so happy to learn that Paper Mart is completing 25 years of its publication.
It has been my privilege to be a regular reader of this excellent magazine associated with paper industry.
I remember that before this publication started there was no magazine or news letter which covered paper industry in totality with 360 degree view of industry. Paper Mart filled in this requirement.
This magazine has grown over years in terms of coverage and presentation.
Quality of articles and other news coverage and on top of it the printing and presentation quality has achieved excellence during this period.
Further Paper Mart has registered its presence in all meets, conferences and exhibitions connected with paper and allied industry followed by excellent coverage.
Besides news on industry the views of Industry leaders are shared for benefit of entire industry and professionals.
Mr. Pawan Kumar Agarwal, Director (India Region), Valmet
Mr. ANIL KUMAR, Former ED & CEO
Shreyans Industries Limited and Past President IPPTA.
Mr. Ashish De, Advisor and Consultant
Mr. S N Venkatraman, SBU Chief, Packaging & Printing Business, ITC Limited
The Role of Paper Mart in Serving the Pulp and Paper Industry in India: My Experience Over the Last Two and a Half Decades
A successful 25-year journey in business is a testament to resilience, dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Having been a part of the Indian paper industry for the past five decades, I have had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable journey of Paper Mart since its inception in the early 2000s. As India’s premier publication dedicated to the pulp and paper industry celebrates its silver jubilee, it stands as a symbol of industry knowledge, innovation, and sustainable growth. Over the past 25 years, Paper Mart has grown alongside the industry, establishing itself as a trusted voice and a vital platform for thought leaders, manufacturers, and key stakeholders. By spotlighting emerging technologies and addressing critical challenges, the magazine has played a pivotal role in shaping discussions that
have influenced the industry’s future. Today, it is recognized as one of the most popular and respected industrial publications. This milestone is not only a celebration of Paper Mart’s success but also a tribute to the enduring spirit of India’s pulp and paper industry that continues to evolve, innovate, and contribute significantly to the nation’s progress. I am deeply honored to have been invited by this esteemed publication to share my thoughts on our shared journey. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire Paper Mart team, especially Mr. Praveen Kumar Jain and Mr. Priyank Jain, for their unwavering dedication. I sincerely wish them continued success and an even greater impact, not just in India but on a global scale, through their passionate service to the pulp and paper industry.
My 25-Year Journey With Paper Mart and Its Impact on the Industry
My association with Paper Mart dates back almost to its inception 25 years ago. I believe Priyank and his team were organizing industry events at the time, and we must have first met at one of them. I was immediately struck by their enthusiasm and energy in covering the paper and paperboard industry, as well as their eagerness to build a strong community of readers within this sector. Back then, information about the industry was scarce, mostly coming from industry associations and a few retired professionals. I often wondered why India’s growing paper industry, with its expanding market and production capacity, could not sustain even a single publication like PPI – Pulp & Paper International, which enjoyed
a wide readership. Over the years, Paper Mart has not only enriched its content but has also evolved to cover the industry’s adoption of new technologies, alongside news on revenues, growth, and diversification. The editorials and articles have become more insightful, transforming the magazine into a comprehensive and dynamic chronicle of the industry. You have filled a significant void and truly earned your success. Although I have now moved to the ITC Packaging business, I still enjoy keeping up with developments in the pulp and paper industry through Paper Mart. Wishing you a joyous 25th anniversary and many more years of impactful coverage ahead.
JMC’s Valued Association With Paper Mart Over the Years
At JMC Paper Tech Pvt. Ltd., we have always valued our association with Paper Mart. Over the past 25 years, the magazine has been a consistent and reliable source of information for the paper industry.
Since its inception in 2000, Paper Mart has gone beyond being just a publication. It has connected industry professionals, shared important updates, and encouraged discussions on
technology and sustainability. It has helped businesses like ours stay informed about market trends and industry developments.
We appreciate the team’s dedication to keeping the industry engaged and well-informed. As Paper Mart celebrates this milestone, we extend our best wishes for continued success in the years ahead.
My Journey in the Industry Has Been Intertwined With Paper Mart
For 25 years, Paper Mart has been a steadfast pillar of knowledge, insight, and connectivity for the Indian paper industry. More than just a publication, it has served as a catalyst for progress, documenting industry shifts, highlighting innovations, and fostering meaningful discussions that have shaped the sector. On a personal note, my journey in the paper industry has been closely intertwined with Paper Mart. Over the years, my interviews in the magazine have not only reflected key industry milestones but also marked different stages of my own career. Each feature has been
Mr. Madhukar Mishra,
Managing Director, Star Paper Mills
Depth of Coverage With the Speed of Reporting
Before Paper Mart commenced publication, there was a dearth of magazines dedicated to Indian pulp and paper industry. As they say, information is power, and Paper Mart has rendered yeoman’s services by keeping its readers well informed about various developments taking place in the industry.
a moment of learning, sharing, and growing alongside an industry that continues to evolve. What sets Paper Mart apart is its ability to bridge tradition with innovation, giving a voice to sustainability, circular economy practices, and emerging opportunities. It has created a strong network of professionals and thought leaders who collectively contribute to a more resilient future for our industry. Congratulations to Paper Mart on this remarkable 25year milestone! I look forward to continued leadership in shaping and inspiring the industry for decades to come. During the last 25 years, Paper Mart has progressively evolved in its coverage of topics as well as promptness of publishing various developments in the industry.
Going forward, we hope Paper Mart will continue to build on its achievements. I wish it very successful and bright future ahead.
Mr. Akshay Jain,
Director, Silverton Pulp and Papers Private Limited
Dr. Shekhar C.
Desarda, Chairman & Managing Director, Parason
Mr. Madhure S. Desarda,
Director, Parason
Mr. Ankur Bindal,
Managing Director, Bindals Papers Mills Limited
Thanks to Paper Mart, My Name Is Now Known in the Industry!
Congratulations on Paper Mart’s 25th anniversary. Over the years, it has been a valuable part of my journey in the paper industry. It has helped me in two ways: by giving my products visibility and by keeping me informed about industry trends.
Thanks to Paper Mart, my name is now known to many in the industry, and I truly appreciate that. The magazine has also kept me updated on what is happening
in India and around the world. Every issue brings something useful, making it an important resource for professionals like me.
I sincerely congratulate Mr. Priyank Jain for leading this journey. Without Paper Mart, my digital presence in the industry would not be the same. Wishing you continued success, and I hope to see the magazine grow beyond India and reach an even wider audience.
Paper Mart Has Positioned Parason as an Industry Leader, Increasing Its
Credibility
Parason takes a moment to consider our successful partnership over the years as Paper Mart marks its 25th anniversary in the paper sector. Our partnership began with a shared vision of driving innovation in the pulp and paper industry. Paper Mart’s extensive reach has been instrumental in connecting us with industry leaders, decisionmakers, and potential clients, enhancing our visibility. Through impactful technical features, event coverage, and thought leadership articles, Paper Mart has positioned Parason as an industry leader, increasing our credibility and unlocking new business opportunities. Our features in Paper Mart have sparked interest, resulting in a notable rise
in inquiries and business leads, contributing significantly to our market growth. As we continue to inspire, innovate, implement the technology in the industry, we look forward to fortifying this alliance with more cooperative digital initiatives, events, and articles.
Warmest congratulations to Paper Mart on 25 years of outstanding achievement!
Paper Mart, a Trusted Platform for Industry Insights and Leadership
First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Paper Mart on achieving this remarkable milestone of completing 25 successful years. We look forward to witnessing many more achievements in the future.
We deeply appreciate Paper Mart’s commitment to staying aligned with the ever-evolving landscape of both the domestic
and global paper industry. By consistently covering modern technological advancements alongside the dynamics of demand and supply, the magazine has provided invaluable insights into industry trends.
Furthermore, Paper Mart has served as a vital platform for industry leaders to share their perspectives, offering readers
an in-depth understanding of various aspects of the sector. Its dedication to covering nearly every facet of the paper industry, combined with its excellent presentation of information, is truly commendable.
We sincerely wish Paper Mart continued success and a bright future ahead.
Mr. Saifee Jani,
Chairman, Jani Sales Pvt. Ltd.
Mr. Ved Krishna, Group CEO, Pakka Limited
Ms. Jyotsana Shrivastava,
Business Director - South Asia
Packaging Technologies
Archroma India Pvt. Ltd.
Congratulations on 25 Years of Excellence!
Heartfelt congratulations to Paper Mart on this remarkable milestone! For 25 years, Paper Mart has been a trusted source of knowledge, industry insights, and valuable updates, making a significant impact on the pulp and paper sector. Your dedication to excellence has been instrumental in shaping the industry, fostering growth, and keeping professionals
informed and inspired. It is truly commendable to see the legacy you have built over the years. As you celebrate this achievement, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the role Paper Mart has played. Wishing you continued success and many more milestones ahead.
The Excellence Paper Mart Brought in through Quality of
Content, Print, and Exchange
I remember when Priyank talked to us about this idea of starting Paper Mart magazine (can’t believe it has been 25 years!) and what a disruption it has created. We have seen the excellence that has been brought in through the quality of content, print, and exchange.
I remain inspired by the effort
that has been made to constantly strive for better quality without any compromises. It goes to show the intent of the team and the result of years of effort and perseverance.
Well done!
Paper Mart Team is Active, Motivated and Committed
We appreciate the growth and success of Paper Mart over the years.
Paper Mart has truly brought in the change! The way the paper industry news is covered both in print and digital magazines, keeps usinformed and up to date on all developments of the industry and its stakeholders.
Its sections on news, technology updates and especially interviews, provide good reading and learning reference for the industry professionals and students.
The Paper Mart team is active, motivated and committed - always present to cover the latest events and news in the global pulp, paper and allied industry.
I have had the opportunity to be connected with the Paper Mart team since almost the beginnings of the magazine and am proud to see it celebrate its 25th anniversary.
Well done and best wishes for the future!
Mr. G. N. Agarwal, Managing Director of Gayatrishakti Paper & Board
The High Standard Quality of your Content Has Set a Benchmark in Trade Publications
Paper Mart is India’s premier publication dedicated to the global pulp and paper industry. It stands as a symbol of industry knowledge, innovation, and its sustainable growth. Over the past 25 years, Paper Mart has grown alongside the industry, establishing itself as a trusted voice and a vital platform for thought leaders, manufacturers, and key stakeholders.
The magazine’s commitment to in-depth reporting and expert analysis has not only educated readers but has also fostered
Mr. Aashish Surender,
Director, Sripathi Paper & Boards
meaningful discussions within the industry. The high standard quality of your content has set a benchmark in trade publications.
Paper Mart has always been consistent in its dedication for serving the industry. Its team is present in all industrial events, conferences and exhibitions connected with the paper industry.
Congratulations to Paper Mart on this remarkable 25-year milestone! We look forward to its continued leadership in shaping and inspiring the industry in the future also!
Paper Mart: 25 Years of Driving Growth & Innovation in the Paper Industry
For the past 25 years, Paper Mart has not just documented the evolution of the Indian paper industry—it has helped shape it. As a paper manufacturer based in Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, we have seen firsthand how this publication has acted as a bridge between businesses, innovators, and policymakers, creating an ecosystem of shared knowledge and progress.
At our company, we take pride in manufacturing high-quality paper products that cater to various industries. Over the years, Paper Mart has played an instrumental role in our journey—whether by providing deep insights into market trends, raw material sourcing strategies, or global innovations in sustainability. Through its well-researched articles and industry analyses, Paper Mart has helped businesses like ours make informed decisions, adapt to new challenges, and discover fresh opportunities for growth.
Beyond information, Paper Mart
has been a powerful connector. Through its features, interviews, and event coverage, it has enabled us to build relationships with key suppliers, buyers, and technology providers, strengthening our network in India and beyond. Its focus on sustainability and the circular economy resonates with our commitment to responsible manufacturing, reinforcing the need for eco-friendly processes and waste reduction strategies.
Reaching 25 years is not just about longevity—it’s about impact. Paper Mart has built a legacy of knowledge, collaboration, and innovation that has strengthened the Indian paper industry. As we look ahead to a future of new challenges and opportunities, we are confident that Paper Mart will continue to be the guiding force that inspires, informs, and unites the industry.
Congratulations on 25 years of excellence—your legacy is woven into the very fabric of our industry.
Mr. Zaheer Abbas, Director - Sales & MarketingSouth Asia, Billerud
Paper Mart has Propelled many Indian Paper Companies to undertake Technological Advancements to Match the Global Quality and Standards
Paper Mart has been a true foundation stone in the Indian pulp & paper industry. It not only provides information and updates but has done an amazing work of keeping the industry together. In fact Paper Mart has propelled many Indian paper companies to undertake projects, technological advancements and upgrades to
match the Global pulp & paper industry- in terms of quality and standards. Paper Mart is a vital and unmatchable source of information, insights and trends in the Global & Indian pulp & paper industry for the past 25 glorious years. Here’s wishing Paper Mart many more glorious decades to come. Keep up the great work.
Mr. Pankaj Chowdhary, Managing Director, Ekman Recycling Limited
Paper Mart’s Impact on Showcasing India’s Paper Industry to the World
Paper Mart has played a pivotal role in enhancing global awareness, particularly in Europe and the USA, about the paper industry in India. Its well-researched interviews and industry reviews provide valuable insights, making it a trusted source of knowledge for professionals across the sector. For a committed
paper industry supplier like Ekman, the publication offers essential information that aids in making informed decisions when selecting customers. As Paper Mart celebrates 25 years of excellence, we extend our best wishes for continued success and growth.
India’s Tissue Market: A Pulp and Paper Industry-Centric Analysis
India’s tissue paper industry is experiencing significant growth, with consumption expected to increase from 169,000 tonnes in 2018 to 550,000 tonnes by 2032, at an annual growth rate of 8.8%. While per capita consumption was low in 2023 at about 0.18 kg, significantly less than China’s 8.8 kg and North America’s 27.8 kg, the Indian tissue market is set for a breakthrough as production capacity is expected to reach 417,000 TPA by 2026 with a 19% CAGR from 2024 to early 2026. Paper Mart cuts through the noise to deliver a sharp, data-driven tissue story viewed through the lens of the Indian pulp and paper industry.
An Industry Wrapped in Mystery
The Indian tissue paper industry is an evolving yet opaque sector, where data inconsistencies and unorganized market activities make it difficult to ascertain the true scale of consumption, installed capacity, and actual production. From the standpoint of the Indian pulp and paper industry, the primary manufacturer of tissue paper in the country, the tissue paper segment includes products such as toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissues, napkins, and other hygiene-related paper products (excluding non-tissue hygiene products, such as diapers, sanitary pads, etc.) used in both household (retail) and commercial (AfH) settings.
There is no doubt that the industry is witnessing steady growth, driven by increasing hygiene awareness and rising disposable incomes. However, India’s per capita consumption of tissue paper remains significantly lower than the average global consumption at 5.6 kg. In 2023, per capita tissue paper consumption varied significantly across regions, with North America leading at approximately 27.8 kg and China estimated at 8.8 kg, while India remained significantly lower at 0.18 kg.
Paper Mart undertook extensive statistical study to unveil the actual picture of the Indian tissue paper market by analyzing various reports, annual industry surveys, and triangulated projections. Based on the findings from our statistical analysis, we developed our own projections for the Indian tissue industry. Our study focused specifically on (1) tissue-based hygiene paper products (referred to as tissue paper) and (2) the organized-sector Indian pulp and paper industry involved in manufacturing good-quality tissue paper products (including virginpulp based premium), ensuring a clear and accurate representation of the tissue market.
6 key premises this article is based on:
1. Viewing the Tissue Industry from the Indian Pulp and Paper Industry’s Perspective: The analysis specifically focuses on tissue paper production and consumption as seen through the lens of the Indian pulp and paper industry, rather than including broader market factors like imports and unorganized sector contributions.
2. Forking Out a Consumption and Production Estimate Specific to the Indian Pulp and Paper Industry: The study attempts to separate the organized sector’s contribution to tissue paper consumption from the total market, providing a distinct estimate of how much the Indian pulp and paper industry alone produces and supplies.
3. Focus on Tissue-Based Hygiene Products: The analysis is limited to tissue-based hygiene products such as toilet paper, facial tissues, paper towels, and napkins, without considering other non-tissue hygiene products (diapers, sanitary pads, etc.).
4. Establishing an Independent Growth Projection Model: The article does not rely solely on existing fragmented reports but instead triangulates data from multiple sources and develops its own CAGR-based projections for future consumption and capacity growth.
5. Discounting the Unorganized Sector and Imports from Market Projections: The analysis intentionally excludes contributions from the unorganized sector and imported tissue products, arguing that these do not represent the core production and supply trends of the Indian pulp and paper industry.
6. Positioning the Industry’s Challenge as Consumption Growth, Not Production Capacity: The article argues that while India has sufficient installed and expanding production capacity, the real issue lies in boosting domestic tissue consumption, which remains far below global averages due to cultural preferences and affordability barriers.
Per Capita Tissue Paper Consumption in 2023
Understanding Consumption Trends
Estimating tissue consumption in India is complex because of the varying methodologies adopted by different research reports. Differing demographics, product baskets, and a lack of official manufacturing and import data further obscure the market size. Through careful analysis, Paper Mart established the estimated per capita consumption of 0.123 kg (≈0.12 g) in 2018, projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.8% from 2018 to 2032. This growth trajectory places India’s total tissue consumption at 550,000 tonnes by 2032, reflecting a significant rise from 169,000 tonnes in 2018.
Installed Capacity and Production Capabilities
Paper Mart’s 2024 figures for India’s tissue paper production, leaving out tentative capacity figures, indicate a capacity of 238,000–248,000 TPA, concentrated mostly within a small number of established companies. It’s widely understood that installed production capacity is rarely achieved because of operational inefficiencies, downtime, and variable market demand. Therefore, this study estimates India’s current tissue production at 179,000–212,000 TPA, based on industry estimates and historical performance trends, which is around 75-85% of installed capacity. These estimates are true for the current year too as no significant capacities were added since 2024.
Including tentative capacity figures, total installed capacity is projected between 273,000 and 303,000 TPA. Since these companies (whose true capacity figures are not available) are actively manufacturing and supplying tissue paper to market, their tentative capacity should be included in the estimation of total installed capacity. The actual production, therefore, is projected at approximately 205,000–258,000 TPA for the year 2024 (to date).
Installed Toscotec AHEAD 1.8 machine in 2024. Premier Tissues India Ltd.25,000–35,000 (*)
Kempt Tissues Pvt. Ltd.
Lemanza Cellulose Pvt. Ltd.
Pudumjee Paper Products Ltd.
DSG Papers Pvt. Ltd.10,000–15,000 (**)
Indus Papers 15,000–25,000 (***)
Khatema Fibres Ltd.10,000–15,000 (****)
Explanations for Tentative Figures of Installed Capacities:
(*) Premier Tissues India Ltd.:
Integrated tissue mill and converting plant.
Commenced production in 2022.
Tissue and poster paper manufacturer.
Operates two Yankee machines.
Estimated tissue segment capacity.
Acquired by Origami Group.
Focused on Crepe Toweling Tissue.
Premier Tissues has a strong retail presence and operates an integrated tissue mill with an established converting facility. Since exact production figures are not publicly available, an estimated range of 25,000–35,000 TPA is based on its market dominance and conversion operations.
(**) DSG Papers Pvt. Ltd.:
DSG Papers is involved in multiple paper segments, including MG poster paper and tissue paper. While the total plant capacity is 55,000 TPA, the tissue segment is estimated to contribute 10,000–15,000 TPA based on industry trends and the company’s focus.
(***) Indus Papers:
Indus Papers has been a tissue producer since 1994-95 and was acquired by the Origami Group, a leading converter. Given Origami’s extensive conversion operations and Indus Papers’ tissue-producing role, an estimated capacity of 15,000–25,000 TPA is assumed.
(****) Khatema Fibres Ltd.:
Khatema Fibres specializes in eco-friendly paper products, including Crepe Toweling Tissue, used for kitchen and sanitary applications. The company has a total installed capacity of 50,000 TPA but manufactures multiple grades of paper. Assuming tissue forms a part of its production and based on industry allocations, the tentative estimate for tissue output is 10,000–15,000 TPA.
Production in this range aligns with projected consumption of 258,000 TPA in 2023 and 280,000 TPA in 2024.
From 60,000 TPA in 2009 to 100,000 TPA in 2017, and now an estimated 273,000–303,000 TPA, India’s tissue paper industry shows impressive growth, boasting a 6.5% CAGR (2009–2017) and a projected 15–17% (2017–2024). The CAGR from 2009–2024 is approximately 10–11%, a positive figure for tissue manufacturing capacity growth. This suggests that India’s installed or operational tissue paper capacity is sufficient and not a cause for concern; rather, the issue lies in the sluggish growth of consumption.
Future Growth and Expansions
Several companies have announced capacity expansions, collectively adding about 114,000 TPA by early 2026. Considering planned mill capacities, total installed capacity is estimated at 352,000–362,000 TPA (excluding tentative figures) and 387,000–417,000 TPA (including them). From 2024 to early 2026, the CAGR for installed tissue paper capacity is projected to be 21–22% annually; however, incorporating tentative capacities adjusts this to 17–19%.
Paper Mart forecasts the industry’s total installed capacity to peak at 417,000 TPA by 2026, with a 19% CAGR from 2024 to early 2026. This estimate shows sound investment and growth in the sector. The rise in capacity neatly corresponds to projected consumption: 280,000 TPA (2024), 305,000 TPA (2025), and 357,000 TPA (2026), indicating a balanced supply-demand in the quality tissue sector featured in this article. Should consumption grow as projected, 2026 capacity will surpass demand, generating a surplus to replace imports and informal sector goods.
Discounting the Unorganized Sector & Imports
The estimates for both consumption and operational capacities are exclusively based on the organized pulp and paper sector, reflecting how much of their production is
absorbed by the market. Accounting for the unorganized sector, which also caters to tissue consumption needs, is a complex task and has not been included in these estimates. The frequently mentioned estimate of about 0.5 kg of per capita consumption in India, while imprecise, probably accounts for imports and the informal sector;
Installed Capacity Growth (Max Values, Including Tentative Figures)
however, it doesn’t reflect the supply situation (who is supplying how much).
A 0.5 kg estimate suggests India’s 2024 tissue consumption would be around 730,000 tonnes—a substantial difference from our projected 280,000 tonnes. With a projected consumption of 280,000 tonnes in 2024, the estimated actual production (205,000–258,000 TPA) seems consistent with India’s pulp and paper industry capacity. This confirms that our consumption estimate accurately represents the production capabilities and grade specifications of the Indian pulp and paper industry. Furthermore, this emphasizes the consistent expansion of tissue manufacturing capacity to satisfy market needs.
Until there is a clear and comprehensive account of imports and the unorganized sector’s contribution to India’s tissue paper market, the consumption and production figures in this article should be considered the only workable approximations from the Indian pulp and paper industry’s perspective, as they represent the visible consumption the industry can directly serve or approach. Furthermore, the unorganized sector caters mainly to budget-conscious consumers, prioritizing inexpensive tissue production over higherquality, virgin pulp tissue. In short, while above-estimate consumption exists, especially in the informal sector, it’s not practical for India’s pulp and paper industry due to product and quality variations. Therefore, eye what you can supply!
Challenges and Market Limitations
Despite growth, India’s tissue paper industry faces several hurdles. Capacity-wise, the Indian pulp and paper industry is well-positioned, with production closely aligned to meet estimated consumption figures. However, the real challenge lies in driving consumption growth, which requires consumer education, improved affordability, and a broader shift in hygiene perceptions to unlock the industry’s full potential. At just about 0.18 kg per capita consumption in 2023, India lags significantly behind the global average and countries like North America and China. This stark gap highlights the slow adoption of tissue-based hygiene products, influenced by cultural preferences for traditional alternatives like cloth and water, low awareness, and limited accessibility.
More importantly, India’s tissue paper industry struggles with data inconsistencies, making market assessment and strategic planning a challenge. The problem lies in the non-disclosure of official capacity, production, and sales figures by the majority of manufacturers in India, severely limiting data analysis and the ability to present accurate estimates or viable figures. The lack of viable estimates on consumption and actual production critically harms the industry, preventing informed decision-making for strategic growth and future expansion.
Unlike structured global markets, fragmented reporting
clouds visibility on production, consumption, and imports. Heavy reliance on imported premiumgrade tissue persists due to limited access to high-quality raw materials, driving up costs and exposing the sector to global price swings. At the same time, pulp shortages, outdated machinery, and supply chain inefficiencies prevent domestic production from reaching its full potential. The industry’s fragmented landscape, dominated by small-scale manufacturers producing low-cost, non-standardized tissue, further slows growth.
The Road Ahead
The Indian tissue paper industry is on a clear growth path, with rising awareness and infrastructure developments fueling demand. Moreover, the consumer-centric measures outlined in the Union Budget 2025-26 are expected to enhance disposable incomes and stimulate consumer spending. This, in turn, is likely to lead to increased demand for tissue products, benefiting the tissue paper industry in India. With new capacities on the horizon, the Indian pulp and paper industry is well-positioned to meet the rising tissue paper demand, particularly in the grades it supplies. However, addressing data transparency, enhancing domestic production quality, and integrating the unorganized sector will be crucial for sustainable growth. With robust investment in capacity expansion and increasing consumer adoption, India’s tissue market is poised for a transformative future.
The figures and numbers in this article are just estimates and not exhaustive. They are indicative at best and serve as an approximation of market trends.
Tamil Nadu Newsprint & Papers Limited (TNPL), with an annual production capacity of 4,40,000 tonnes writing & printing paper and 2,00,000 tonnes of specialized boards, has recently announced a capital expenditure plan worth INR 600-650 crore for FY25 and FY26. In an exclusive interview with Paper Mart, Dr. Sandeep Saxena, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary / Chairman and Managing Director, TNPL, talks about the mill plans to revamp its steam and power system and the installation of a 100 TPD tissue paper manufacturing machine to enter into the tissue paper segment, using the investment.
Paper Mart: Kindly walk us through the illustrious journey of Tamil Nadu Newsprint & Papers Limited (TNPL), highlighting major achievements and crucial milestones.
Sandeep Saxena: Tamil Nadu Newsprint & Papers Limited (TNPL), established by the government of Tamil Nadu, has been a trailblazer in the paper manufacturing industry and is recognised globally for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability.
Founded in 1979, TNPL’s mission was to produce high-quality newsprint and writing paper using bagasse, marking a significant step towards environmentally conscious manufacturing.
Some of the mill’s milestones are:
TNPL commenced its journey in 1984 with an initial production capacity of 90,000 tonnes per annum (TPA), comprising a 70 TPD hardwood pulp mill, a 200 TPD chemical bagasse pulp mill, a 275 TPD BLSD recovery island, and a 26 MW power plant, setting the stage for future growth.
By 1996, TNPL expanded its capacity to 180,000 TPA with the installation of its second paper machine. This expansion included a 100 TPD
hardwood pulp mill, a 400 TPD chemical bagasse pulp mill, a 650 TPD BLSD recovery island, and an increased power plant capacity of 36.5 MW.
The year 2000 saw further strides in power generation, with the plant’s capacity increasing to 61 MW. The company’s production capacity was also raised to 2,40,000 TPA with the rebuilding of its original paper machine.
In 2007-08, TNPL launched the Mill Development Plan, which saw the mill’s pulp capacity raised to 300 TPD for hardwood pulp and 500 TPD for chemical bagasse pulp.
The installation of a 1300 TPD BLSD recovery system and a further expansion of the power plant capacity to 81 MW helped strengthen the company’s ecofriendly credentials. Additionally, TNPL switched to elemental chlorinefree bleaching, a significant step in reducing its environmental footprint.
Continuing its expansion, TNPL increased its production capacity to 4,00,000 TPA in 2010, eventually reaching 4,80,000 TPA. The pulp mill capacity was enhanced to 330 TPD hardwood pulp and 550 TPD chemical bagasse pulp. In 2012,
the power plant was revamped to provide an impressive 103.62 MW of power, further bolstering TNPL’s green energy initiatives.
In 2014, TNPL ventured into the packaging board sector with the establishment of its Unit-2 in Trichy. This greenfield project involved the construction of a plant capable of producing 2,00,000 MT of packaging board, accompanied by a 30 MW power plant. The commercial production of Unit-2 commenced in 2016, further diversifying the company’s product offerings.
Continuing its growth trajectory, Unit-2 underwent an expansion, which included the installation of a 400 TPD hardwood pulp mill, a 950 BLSD per day recovery boiler, and an increase in power plant capacity to 50 MW.
TNPL’s remarkable journey from a modest paper mill to a global leader in eco-friendly paper manufacturing has been marked by consistent innovation, expansion, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability. As TNPL continues to grow and innovate, it remains at the forefront of the paper industry, setting new standards for environmental responsibility and operational excellence.
PM: Please tell us about your infrastructure setup and annual manufacturing capacity.
SS: TNPL’s Unit-1 is equipped with advanced infrastructure designed to produce premium writing and printing paper. The annual production capacity at Unit-1 is 4,80,000 tonnes per annum (TPA). The facility is supported by a 330 TPD hardwood pulp mill and a 550 TPD chemical bagasse pulp plant, ensuring a consistent and sustainable supply of raw materials for paper manufacturing.
The facility also features a 1300 TPD BLDS chemical recovery system, which plays a crucial role in minimizing waste and ensuring
Dr. Sandeep Saxena, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary / Chairman and Managing Director, TNPL
the efficient recovery of chemicals used in the papermaking process. The 103.63 MW in-house power generation capacity is another highlight of Unit 1, enabling the plant to meet its energy requirements through renewable and sustainable sources and reducing dependence on external power grids.
Furthermore, TNPL has integrated its water and effluent treatment plants within its infrastructure, ensuring responsible water usage and efficient management of effluents, in line with its environmental commitment. Other essential utilities and infrastructure further support the plant’s seamless operations.
TNPL’s Unit-2 is a key player in the company’s diversification strategy. Specializing in packaging board production, the facility has an annual production capacity of 2,00,000 TPA, with a focus on high-quality packaging board products that cater to the growing demand in the packaging industry.
Unit-2 houses a 400 TPD hardwood pulp mill, which ensures a reliable source of pulp for the production of packaging board. The plant is supported by a 950 TPD BLDS
chemical recovery system, helping maintain sustainability and optimize the use of resources. Addition of 20 MW increase the in-house power generation capacity to 50 MW ensures that Unit-2 operates efficiently with minimal environmental impact, supported by renewable energy sources.
Just like Unit-1, water and effluent treatment plants are integral to Unit-2’s infrastructure, ensuring compliance with environmental standards while maintaining sustainable water usage.
PM: TNPL recently announced capex worth INR 600–650 crore over FY25 and FY26. Kindly tell us about the new growth initiatives, which you plan to achieve with this capex.
SS: TNPL has announced a capital expenditure plan worth INR 600650 crore for FY25 and FY26. This strategic investment aligns with TNPL’s vision to enhance production capabilities, embrace renewable energy, and ensure uninterrupted operations, further strengthening its position as a leading player in the pulp and paper industry.
Some of the key growth initiatives are:
We have recently installed a pulp mill in Unit II, at Mondipatti, Tamil Nadu. In addition, we are revamping our steam and power system to conform to the latest safety and environmental standards.
We have also decided to install a 34,000 TPA tissue paper machine. This state-of-the-art machine will manufacture the following tissue paper grades: facial tissue paper, toilet tissue paper, towel tissue paper, and napkin tissue paper.
We expect to start production by Feb 2026.
This project will cost INR 340 crore (inclusive of GST), and its scope is the installation of a state-of-the-art tissue paper machine capable of producing high-quality tissue paper in grades ranging from 13 GSM to 40 GSM. The machine will primarily utilize in-house hardwood pulp, ensuring superior product quality. This project will enable TNPL to tap into the growing tissue paper market and diversify its product portfolio.
The second key initiative is the
installation of a 2 MW rooftop solar power plant (1 MW each at Unit I & II). The project will cost INR 9 crore (inclusive of GST), and the scope of this solar plant is to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency. The project commenced in January 2024 and scheduled for completion in June 2025 The project supports TNPL’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy adoption.
The third key initiative is the revamping of the steam and power system at TNPL Unit-I. The project cost INR 250 crore (inclusive of GST), and the scope of the project is the installation of a 125 TPH, 104 kg/cm², 525°C AFBC boiler along with a modern fuel handling plant to address bottlenecks and ensure uninterrupted steam and power supply to the mill. The project commenced in June 2024 and is scheduled for completion in April 2026. This upgrade will improve operational efficiency, enhance reliability, and ensure seamless power and steam supply for manufacturing processes.
These initiatives reflect TNPL’s relentless pursuit of environmentally sustainable operations and technological advancements that not only support the mills’ green energy goals but also position the company for future growth, enhancing its capability to meet global standards and customer demands in the competitive pulp and paper market.
PM: How do you maintain a competitive edge in the segment?
SS: TNPL invests heavily in technology and R&D with a regular upgradation and modernisation plan. Our marketing and production team is actively involved in exploring new markets and customers. Our customer centricity gives us loyal, long-term customers. Further, investing in IT and automation keeps our quality up to international standards and improves our efficiency. We are also actively
implementing Industry 4.0 to maintain our competitive edge.
PM: Kindly give us an overview of your market footprint.
SS: TNPL manufactures approximately 4,40,000 MT of paper and 2,00,000 MT of packaging board. All the material is sold through our 110 dedicated dealers spread across the country. TNPL also exports approximately 24% of its total production to international markets. We export in 60 countries, including developed countries like the USA, the UK, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, etc.
PM: Please elaborate on how R&D plays a critical role in the growth of a company?
SS: At TNPL, innovation and sustainability go hand in hand, driven by a dedicated R&D team that plays a vital role in fostering growth and operational excellence.
Bagasse, a by-product of sugarcane, forms the cornerstone of TNPL’s raw material strategy. By utilizing approximately one million tonnes of bagasse annually, TNPL not only supports sustainable manufacturing but also prevents the exploitation of around 30,000 acres of forest land. This green approach aligns with the company’s mission to preserve the environment and promote sustainable paper production.
The development of TNPL’s GreenPal brand, which champions the use of 100% bagasse-based paper, exemplifies its pioneering efforts in sustainable paper manufacturing.
TNPL’s R&D team continually undertakes innovative projects to improve product quality, process efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
Some of them are:
● Deposit Control and Oxidative Biocide Program: Monochloraminebased oxidized biocide has extended machine running times from 45 to
over 70 days by ensuring efficient bacterial control.
● Bulk Enhancer Trials: The introduction of cross-linking polymer bulk enhancers eliminated highcost BCTMP usage in TCR 70 GSM, leading to savings of INR 250 per tonne of paper.
● Colour Reduction Study: Polymerbased solutions were identified to significantly reduce effluent colour in secondary and primary clarifiers.
● Water Conservation and TDS Reduction: Trials reduced foaming in effluents, lowered TDS levels, and optimized sodium content in secondary clarifiers.
● Sand Content Reduction in Pulp: Chemical trials aimed at reducing sand content and improving moisture content in pith press outputs.
● Hydrogen Peroxide Stabilization: Enhanced stabilization techniques reduced chemical consumption and decomposition in pulp mills.
● Wash Aid Chemical Trials: Foam and alkali loss reduction initiatives led to increased pulp production and maintenance efficiency.
● Innovative Raw Materials: Trials with Senna spectabilis demonstrated
“
By utilizing approximately one million tonnes of bagasse annually, TNPL supports sustainable manufacturing and prevents the exploitation of around 30,000 acres of forest land.
“
its suitability for hardwood pulp production.
● Anti-Scalant Program: Scaling issues in chemical bagasse and hardwood pulp processes were addressed to improve production uptime.
The R&D team also focuses on energy-efficient production processes that lower operational costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One of the standout achievements of TNPL is biogas generation through anaerobic digestion of bagasse leachate water. This renewable energy source supports power generation, reduces fossil fuel dependency, and contributes to the mill’s circular economy initiatives.
TNPL also coordinates with government agencies like the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), and Central Pulp & Paper Research Institute (CPPRI). The company publishes technical papers in leading national and international journals to share its innovations and advancements with the global community. Through its comprehensive R&D efforts, TNPL continues to lead the way in environmental sustainability, product innovation, and operational efficiency, setting new benchmarks for the paper industry while preserving natural resources for future generations.
PM: What are the green initiatives adopted by the mill?
SS: TNPL is renowned as the world’s largest eco-friendly bagassebased paper mill, emphasizing sustainability and energy efficiency. The company has formed strong ties with sugar mills and established captive plantations to ensure a consistent and sustainable supply of raw materials.
TNPL took its first steps towards green energy in 1993-94 by installing windmills with an initial capacity
of 15 MW. By 2007, this capacity expanded to 35.5 MW. TNPL also introduced a bio-methanisation plant, which converted high-COD effluent into biogas, replacing 15 metric tonnes of furnace oil per day.
In 2012, the company became the first in the paper industry to install a lime sludge and fly ash management system, a project aimed at reducing waste and producing 600 TPD of cement from waste materials, which was later increased to 900 TPD.
The company is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint, which is evident in its partnership with OMYA to produce Precipitated
“The development of GreenPal brand, which champions the use of 100% bagasse-based paper, exemplifies TNPL’s pioneering efforts in sustainable paper manufacturing.
“Calcium Carbonate (PCC) from CO₂ extracted from flue gases. This PCC is utilized in the paper production process, further reducing the environmental impact of the company’s operations.
TNPL has also implemented a Treated Effluent Water Lift Irrigation Scheme, which irrigates 1,460 acres of dry land through a society formed with 1,200 farmers in TNPL Unit1. Additionally, drip irrigation has been carried out on 500 acres of land in Unit-2, showcasing TNPL’s dedication to sustainable agricultural practices. These green energy initiatives not only support TNPL’s operations but also contribute to the state’s renewable energy goals.
PM: Please share your views on the recent trends in the pulp and paper market. How do you see the market evolving over the years?
SS: Paper as a commodity has seen a lot of changes. Paper has moved from being a source of writing/ archiving data and communication to a means of sustainable packaging. The writing and printing segment is declining, and there is growth in the tissue and packaging segment. While these changes are more pronounced in the developed world, there is still room for growth in India, Africa, and Asia. The reason for this growth is primarily demographics, as these countries have a large and growing young population who need paper for their education.
With increasing movement towards the environment, there is a lot of focus on eco-friendly, sustainable materials, as they are totally recyclable and biodegradable/ compostable in nature. This property of paper has led to many applications for packaging. Today, packaging paper and board constitute more than 60% of the total paper demand.
Although the overall growth in the global paper market is very low, at 1% P.A., due to the overall decline in the writing and printing segment, the packaging segment is on the upward trend. The Indian market is growing at approx. 5% PA. While growth is lower in the writing and printing segment, the packaging grades, like Kraft/paperboard, are growing at a quick pace. With increasing consumerism, we expect this segment to grow even faster. Tissue is another segment that has bright prospects in India.
PM: List some of the major challenges faced by the industry. How can they be overcome?
SS: The paper industry, including companies like TNPL, faces significant challenges that impact its operations and growth. Some of these challenges are rising
imports and market competition, raw material availability and cost, environmental regulations and sustainability, and technological advancements and digitization.
The Indian paper industry has seen a substantial increase in paper and paperboard imports, escalating from 1.145 million metric tonnes in 202122 to 1.929 million metric tonnes in 2023-24—a 68% surge over two years. Imports from countries like China and ASEAN nations have notably intensified, with increases of 181% and 247%, respectively, during this period. This influx poses a threat to domestic manufacturers, including TNPL, by exerting downward pressure on prices and market share.
Moreover, securing a consistent and cost-effective supply of raw materials is a persistent challenge. Factors such as agricultural dependency, competition for resources, and environmental regulations can disrupt supply chains and escalate costs. For instance, TNPL has experienced significant increases in wood prices, adversely affecting profitability.
Further, the industry is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices and comply with stringent environmental regulations. This necessitates investments in eco-friendly technologies, waste management,
and sustainable sourcing, which can be capital-intensive.
Lastly, the rise of digital media has reduced the demand for traditional writing and printing paper. To remain relevant, companies must innovate and diversify their product offerings, which may require substantial research and development efforts.
To navigate these challenges, TNPL and similar companies can consider strategies like developing new products, such as high-strength paper for packaging, that can open new revenue streams and reduce reliance on traditional paper markets. Moreover, investing in sustainable raw material sourcing, like using bagasse can mitigate raw material shortages and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
Adopting advanced manufacturing technologies can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality, helping companies stay competitive against imports. Further, exploring new markets domestically and internationally can help offset the impact of increased imports and tap into emerging demand areas.
By implementing these strategies, TNPL can strengthen its position in the market, enhance sustainability, and ensure long-term growth despite the prevailing challenges.
PM: Are you planning to launch any new products in 2025? Where do you see TNPL five years from now?
SS: TNPL has exciting plans for new product launches and expansions. In 2025, the mill is proposing the installation of a 100-tonne-per-day tissue plant at TNPL Unit II, marking its entry into the dynamic tissue products segment.
Looking ahead, in the next five years, TNPL aims to strengthen its position in the paper and pulp industry, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and diversification to stay ahead of the curve.
Some key areas of focus include TNPL plans to introduce new products, such as notebooks, using their paper and boards. The mill is also exploring the potential of paper in various industrial applications, beyond traditional writing and printing papers. TNPL is also committed to environmental stewardship and is working to enhance operational efficiencies, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
With these strategic plans in place, TNPL is poised for continued growth and success in the next five years.
IME Group Invests Rs 2 Billion in Nepal Pulp and Paper Industries
Private Limited
IME Group invests Rs 2 billion in Nepal Pulp and Paper Industries Private Limited, creating new opportunities for Nepal.
Mar06,2025
IME Group has officially launched Nepal Pulp and Paper Industries Private Limited, with an investment of Rs 2 billion, as per a report by local media in Nepal.
Chandra Prasad Dhakal, Chairman of IME Group, said that there is an immense possibility in Nepal. The new paper mill will use local waste paper generated in the country as the raw material for its operations and create jobs for Nepali people.
IME Group also delves into the banking, hospitality, remittance, insurance and tourism infrastructure sectors.
Orient Paper & Industries Infuses Sustainability in Its Product Innovations
Orient Paper & Industries Limited, with a production capacity of approximately 1,72,000 TPA including paper, tissue and chemicals including 60,000 TPA especially for tissue paper, has established a strong pan-India presence and hold a dominant 35% share in domestic tissue. In an exclusive interview with Paper Mart, Mr. Saikat Basu, Chief Marketing & Sales Officer at OPIL discussed the mill’s latest innovations in tissue segment which includes Orient Bamboo Natura- a sustainable product line, carrier tissue paper designed for sanitary napkin segment and Ultrasoft Toilet. He also explains how customer preferences are moving from recycled to virgin categories.
Paper Mart: How would you describe the current market scenario for the tissue paper segment?
Saikat Basu: Tissue paper is one of the speciality grades in the paper segment, and enjoys a steep growth pattern in India as well as globally. Still at a nascent stage in its usage pattern, it’s a business of the new entrepreneurs and not a multigenerational conversion business as of date.
Mathematically, an expected growth rate of 22% in the tissue paper segment is enough to sustain the limited additional supply volume that has accrued over the past few months.
There is a clear preference shift of consumers from the recycled to the virgin tissue paper segment, which further catalyzes the adoption of additional virgin tissue supplies. Hence, the market scenario—though competitive—is healthy.
Lead times have improved for the customers, and basic quality parameters have improved for all manufacturers. Even recycled paper manufacturers are compelled to enhance their performance.
Prices were slightly subdued in late December and early January due to a sudden spurt of new capacities. But things have stabilized now as the customers have chosen the best mix of suppliers in terms of service, quality, and lead times. The initial turbulence has settled, with a slight upward trend from the end of February.
PM: What are the factors behind the rising growth of this segment?
SB: Rising disposable incomes, a shift towards disposable products, a growing middle-class segment, and surging tourism post-COVID are some of the factors driving the growth of the tissue paper segment. People are also becoming more aware of hygiene and sanitation issues and the significant
Mr. Saikat Basu, Chief Marketing & Sales Officer at OPIL
role they play in public places, HoReCa and institutions.
PM: Give a brief background about your paper mill(s) catering to the tissue paper segment along with the production capacities.
SB: Orient Paper & Industries Limited has been one of the first companies of the CK Birla Group and a leading company in the tissue paper manufacturing segment in India.
Since the launch of our first tissue machine in the 1990s, we’ve never looked back and focused all our energies on growing this segment in the subsequent years. Over the years, we introduced tissue machines 2 and 3, bringing our total capacity to 170 TPD (approximately 60,000 TPA). With a strong focus on innovation, we have designed and launched new hygiene variants to meet evolving market needs.
Established in 1965, our facility is strategically located on the west bank of the Sone River in Amlai, Shahdol District, Madhya Pradesh. We are continuously improving environmental and energy performance, striving to be the best in the industry. Alongside tissue paper, we manufacture writing, printing, industrial, and specialty papers.
At OPIL, we believe that good corporate governance is essential to achieving long-term success and enhancing stakeholder value. Our management is committed to manufacturing and marketing high-quality products that create sustainable value for all stakeholders.
In addition to complying with the regulatory framework, OPIL ensures the highest standards of ethical conduct. We believe that resources must be dynamically matched with a strong commitment to excellence through a team of dedicated people while ensuring a clean environment for our planet.
“India’s disposable income is projected to grow at an 11.1% CAGR (2024-2029), outpacing the Asia-Pacific average. Higher income levels & urbanization will boost demand for tissue paper and hygiene products, especially in urban areas.
“PM: What grades of tissue paper do you currently produce?
SB: We manufacture all variants, including napkins, serviettes, toilet rolls, kitchen towels, HRT and C-fold towels, facial tissue paper, and more. Additionally, we have also developed carrier tissue paper for the sanitary napkin segment and have launched a futuristic bamboobased variant, ‘Orient Bamboo Natura’, which has napkins, toilet rolls, towels, and other categories. Bamboo is a highly sustainable product that falls under the grass category and does not affect forestation. Furthermore, we have recently launched the ultrasoft toilet category and the high wet-strength towel category, catering to evolving consumer needs.
PM: Can you describe the primary applications of the tissue paper segment manufactured by your company, and who are your key clients?
SB: Tissue paper is widely used in at-home applications for personal hygiene, including facial tissues, toilet rolls, and wet wipes, as well as for household cleaning with products like kitchen towels, napkins, and wipes.
In away-from-home settings, it plays a vital role in commercial hygiene and sanitation across hotels, offices, and restaurants, with products such as toilet paper rolls, napkins, and kitchen towels. Additionally, in the healthcare sector, it is essential for medical wipes, sanitary tissue paper, and disposable bed covers.
Our key customers include tissue converters across India and globally, ranging from large brands to small, single-conversion entrepreneurs. With a widespread service network, we cater to businesses of all sizes, ensuring quality and reliability in every product we deliver.
PM: Shed light on your market footprint with regard to domestic consumption and exports.
SB: OPIL is one of India’s largest manufacturers and exporters of tissue paper, with customer and trade alliances with the UAE, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, Qatar, Australia, Mauritius, Portugal, the USA, and many more countries. It has a strong presence in all categories of tissue paper, notebooks, and writing and printing paper segments.
In the domestic arena, we enjoy a 35% market share of domestic tissue paper consumption, with a strong presence pan-India, especially in the North and South zones.
PM: What unique features or innovations set your tissue paper products and production processes apart from competitors?
SB: OPIL, operating with three machines, has a significant advantage over its competitors. With parallel production, demand fulfilment becomes more efficient and flexible, ensuring a steady supply of products even during peak periods. The lead times for OPIL are shorter and more consistent. The operational capacity is more moderate and distributed, reducing
With the growing demand for ecofriendly tissue paper products, consumers are preferring biodegradable, compostable, and sustainably sourced options. We are the first company in South Asia to introduce virgin bamboo tissue papers, promoting environmentally conscious choices for consumers and businesses.
“ “
bottlenecks in workflow.
From a customer experience standpoint, the company is more reliable, as production disruptions do not halt the overall production output. Additionally, the risk management of the company is far superior to the competitors, as multiple machines offer better resilience against unexpected breakdowns or maintenance issues.
PM: How do you incorporate sustainability or eco-friendly practices into your production process?
SB: OPIL is using 25-35% bamboo as a raw material, which has antibacterial properties and high absorbency. We are the first company in South Asia to introduce virgin bamboo tissue papers, promoting environmentally conscious choices for consumers and businesses.
In terms of eco-efficiency commitment, transitioning to the Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) bleaching process underscores our dedication to environmental sustainability, aligning our company with industry standards while improving pulp quality.
Further, in water stewardship, we have partnered with local communities and built over 1,440 water structures, capturing 15 billion litres of water and irrigating 13,551 acres. We are a leader in ‘water positivity’, with an impressive 86% water conservation rate.
For environmental upgradation, we have achieved a record-breaking result in agroforestry that includes planting on 19,570 acres of land and treating 5,784 acres of land to improve soil and moisture. Our outreach program has led to the complete economic transformation of 1089 villages.
PM: How do you envision the future demand and opportunities for the tissue paper segment in light of growing hygiene and sustainability trends?
SB: The rise in away-from-home tissue paper consumption is driving greater at-home usage, as consumers become accustomed to its convenience and hygiene benefits. This shift is increasing awareness and solidifying tissues as household essentials, fostering broader adoption across India.
India’s disposable income is projected to grow at an 11.1% CAGR (2024-2029), outpacing the AsiaPacific average. Higher income levels & urbanization will boost demand for tissue paper and hygiene products, especially in urban areas.
Sustainability has emerged as a key consumer priority. According to Euromonitor 2023, one in every three Indian consumers
actively seeks to have a positive environmental impact. With the growing demand for eco-friendly tissue paper products, consumers are preferring biodegradable, compostable, and sustainably sourced options.
Responding to these sustainability trends, brands are focusing on sustainable sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and biodegradable materials. Sustainability-focused innovations such as bamboo-based, unbleached tissue papers will attract eco-conscious consumers. The government incentives for sustainable manufacturing may further accelerate the industry’s growth.
The Indian tissue paper industry is poised for growth, fuelled by economic expansion, hygiene awareness, and sustainability trends. Companies are prioritizing ecofriendly innovations and ethical sourcing that will lead in this evolving market.
“Prices were slightly subdued in the tissue paper segment in late December and early January due to a sudden spurt of new capacities. But now, things have stabilized, with a slight upward trend from the end of February. Customers have chosen their best mix of suppliers in terms of service, quality, and lead times.
“
Gayatrishakti Tissue: Fulfilling India’s Hygiene Needs With Sustainable Tissue Paper
Gayatrishakti Tissue Private Limited, a comparatively new entrant in the Indian tissue paper market, is making ripples with its 100 percent virgin, OBA-free tissue papers, made from responsibly sourced wood pulp. The company aims to continue delivering high quality tissue papers by incorporating eco-friendly practices into its sourcing and production processes. This was revealed by Mr. G. N. Agarwal, Managing Director of Gayatrishakti Paper & Boards Limited; Mr. Kiran Barad, Whole Time Director at Gayatrishakti Tissue Private Limited and Mr. Debojit Sengupta, Sales & Marketing Head, Gayatrishakti Tissue Private Limited during an exclusive interaction with Paper Mart.
Mr. G. N. Agarwal, Managing Director of Gayatrishakti Paper & Boards Limited
Mr. Kiran Barad, Whole Time Director at Gayatrishakti Tissue Private Limited
Paper Mart: How would you describe the current market scenario for the tissue paper segment?
G.N. Agarwal: The global tissue paper market is experiencing significant growth, driven by factors such as increased hygiene awareness, urbanization, rising disposable income, shifting consumer preferences, growth in hospitality and healthcare sectors, and a shift towards sustainable products. With a heightened focus on hygiene and sanitation, especially post-pandemic, there has been a surge in demand for products like tissue paper, napkins and toilet paper. Consumers are now more concerned about cleanliness and personal care, leading to greater adoption of tissue paper products. As urbanization increases, there is a greater shift towards conveniencebased products. Tissue papers are perceived as more hygienic and convenient, particularly in urban households and commercial spaces like offices, hotels, and restaurants.
Growing disposable income, particularly among the middle class, have resulted in higher spending on personal care products, including tissue paper. As people have more purchasing power, they opt for premium and more convenient hygiene products. Consumers are moving away from traditional cloth-based hygiene practices to disposable paper products, driven by their convenience and superior hygienic benefits.
The hospitality industry, including hotels and restaurants, along with hospitals and other healthcare facilities, has seen a significant growth in the demand for tissue paper products. These sectors require large volumes of disposable hygiene products for guests and patients. As global trends toward sustainability continue, consumers
“The global tissue paper market is experiencing significant growth, driven by factors such as increased hygiene awareness, urbanization, rising disposable income, shifting consumer preferences, growth in hospitality and healthcare sectors, and a shift towards sustainable products.
“and manufacturers are focusing on eco-friendly tissue paper products made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials. The demand for sustainable products is growing, especially as environmental awareness rises in India.
The rapid growth of e-commerce platforms in India has made it easier for consumers to access and purchase tissue paper products. Online sales are growing in this sector, especially as more consumers turn to online shopping for everyday needs. The Government of India has implemented policies to improve hygiene standards, particularly in public spaces and institutions, which drives demand for disposable tissue paper products. Additionally, some regional government regulations mandate the use of hygienic and disposable products in public places.
Tissue papers are viewed as convenient for both home and on-the-go usage. With increasingly busy lifestyles, consumers prefer disposable, easy-to-use products for daily use, which fuels the demand for tissue papers. These factors
collectively contribute to the rapid expansion of the tissue paper market in India, making it one of the fastest-growing segments within the broader paper and packaging industry. While recent industry challenges have impacted some companies, the overall market outlook remains favourable.
PM: Give background about your paper mill(s) catering to the tissue paper segment along with the production capacities.
GNA: Gayatrishakti Paper & Boards Limited has been a leader in coated duplex board and kraft liner. Taking the legacy forward, the company has installed a Toscotec AHEAD tissue paper machine with a sheet trim width of 2850 mm. Effective deckle for market size orders is 2800 mm. The machine has an operating speed of 1800 m/min and can produce over 35,000 TPA of 100 percent virgin, Optical Brightening Agent (OBA)free tissue papers.
PM: What grades of tissue papers do you currently produce? Also mention their major applications.
Kiran Barad: We produce 100 percent virgin, OBA-free tissue papers from hard wood and soft wood pulp sourced from renowned producers. We manufacture tissue papers from 12.5 to 42 gsm in all grades of facial tissue, toilet/bath tissue, napkin/ serviettes, kitchen towels and hand towels. All our tissue papers are FDA compliant, which makes them safe for both food and skin. Primarily, tissue papers are used to wipe the face and greasy or wet fingers, for personal and intimate care, and for surface wiping. We also produce industrial grade tissue papers like carrier tissue papers, which are used for wrapping fluff/pulp in diapers, underpads and sanitary napkins.
PM: Shed light on your market footprint with regard to domestic consumption and exports.
KB: Our main focus is on providing Indian domestic consumers with
high-quality tissue papers to fulfil their daily hygiene needs. The Indian tissue paper industry is seeing tremendous growth and our present volume is likely to be consumed to a greater extent domestically in near future. However, our strategic location near the port makes export a viable option too.
PM: What unique features or innovations set your tissue paper products and production processes apart from competitors?
Debojit Sengupta: Our Toscotec AHEAD tissue machine features firstclass drying configuration including an upgraded design shoe press TT NextPress, a third-generation design TT SYD Steel Yankee Dryer and a high-efficiency TT Hood. It has Toscotec’s patented TT SAF® DD (Short Approach Flow System with Double Dilution) for superior energy efficiency & TT Brain DCS of upgraded design. This superior technology helps us to produce tissue papers with high bulk and ultra softness. We have also installed two OPTIMA 2200 slitter rewinders, which can slit reels from 130 mm to
“Gayatrishakti Paper & Boards’ main focus is to provide Indian domestic consumers with high-quality tissue papers to fulfil their daily hygiene needs, while incorporating eco-friendly practices into its sourcing and production processes.
“
2800 mm, helping us to cater to the need of wide range of converters with customized sizes.
PM: How do you incorporate sustainability or eco-friendly
practices into your production process?
DS: Our focus is on delivering tissue papers of highest quality by incorporating eco-friendly practices into our sourcing and production processes. We are an FSC certified company procuring pulp from sustainable, responsible & certified sources.
We have installed a state of the art Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) Plant. The system consists of Non chemical based effluent treatment plant (ETP) and recycling plant with latest fully automatic MBR technology based biological treatment, multistage reverse osmosis system, Multi Effect Evaporator with Air Thin Film Dryer. This plant is an advanced wastewater treatment system designed to minimize or eliminate the discharge of liquid waste from industrial processes, recovering water and concentrating contaminants as solid waste for disposal or reuse. ZLD plant aim to recover almost 100% of
wastewater for reuse and minimal water wastage thereby ensuring a sustainable and environmental friendly approach.
GSTPL has installed Waste to Energy (WTE) boiler by using waste & ETP sludge generated from sister concern units as a fuel. The Concept is to save the fossils fuel and promote the waste utilization for sustainability.
PM: How do you envision the future demand and opportunities for tissue paper evolving in light of sustainability and hygiene trends?
DS: Future growth will be driven by sustainability and hygiene needs. Companies will invest in energy-efficient processes and water conservation to meet stricter environmental regulations. The tissue paper industry will see increased demand, but success will depend on sustainable innovations, regulatory compliance and catering to evolving hygiene-conscious consumer behaviours.
Jani Sales Expanding Global Footprint to Fulfil Premium Tissue Paper Demands
With a strong domestic base in Gujarat and expanding global outreach, especially in the markets of the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Southeast Asia, Jani Sales Private Limited is looking forward to becoming a key player in the global tissue paper industry. Mr. Abiali Jani, Director of the company, revealed during an exclusive interaction with Paper Mart that they were well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for premium and eco-friendly tissue papers.
Paper Mart: How will you describe the current market scenario for the tissue paper segment?
Abiali Jani: The global tissue paper market is experiencing steady growth, driven by rising hygiene awareness, urbanization, increasing disposable incomes and regulatory pressure. Consumers are moving towards premium segments like ultra-soft, lotion-infused and antibacterial tissue papers, especially in the facial and toilet tissue paper categories. Eco-friendly and biodegradable options are
gaining traction, with many brands introducing bamboo-based and recycled tissue paper products. Increasing regulations on plastic packaging and deforestation have pushed manufacturers to adopt recycled fibers and sustainable sourcing. Many companies are investing in carbon-neutral production processes and FSCcertified materials to meet consumer expectations.
Speaking about challenges, the tissue paper industry remains
Mr. Abiali Jani, Director, Jani Sales Private Limited
affected by pulp price volatility, rising energy costs and supply chain disruptions. Companies are optimizing manufacturing efficiencies and exploring alternative raw materials to manage costs.
The rise of online retail and subscription-based models is reshaping purchasing patterns, making tissue paper more accessible through e-commerce platforms. Companies that invest in innovative, eco-friendly and valuedriven products will likely gain a competitive edge.
PM: What according to you are the factors behind the rising growth of this segment?
AJ: Growing awareness of personal hygiene is fueling demand for facial tissue paper, tissue paper napkins and toilet tissue papers across both residential and commercial sectors. Besides, demand for tissue paper is expanding rapidly in Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Africa, where hygiene awareness and disposable income are increasing. The postpandemic shift towards health and cleanliness has reinforced tissue paper as an essential household product.
PM: Kindly give background about your paper mill(s) catering to the tissue paper segment, especially the Crescent Former Machine in Sarigam, Gujarat, which helped you enhance your production capacities. What grades of tissue paper do you currently produce?
AJ: Jani Sales Private Limited has made a significant investment in advanced tissue paper manufacturing with the Crescent Former Machine in Sarigam, Gujarat. This state-of-the-art set-up allows production of high-quality 100 percent virgin tissue paper with a capacity of 18,000 MT annually and a GSM range of 11.5 to 45. The machine enhances efficiency, speed and quality, ensuring superior softness and strength. We specialize in the manufacturing of facial tissue papers, tissue napkins, paper towels and toilet tissue papers, catering to various consumer and commercial needs. Our premium quality tissue paper is ideal for customers seeking hygienic, soft and high-absorbency products.
PM: Shed light on your market footprint with regard to domestic consumption and exports.
AJ: Jani Sales has a strong foothold in the Indian tissue paper market. We serve various sectors such as households, hospitality, healthcare, corporate offices and quick-service restaurants (QSRs). Our wellestablished supply chain ensures reach across urban and semiurban markets. We collaborate with retailers and businesses for customized tissue paper solutions under private labels. Our strategic location in Gujarat gives us proximity to key markets and logistics hubs, ensuring faster distribution and costeffective exports via major ports. Besides, adherence to global hygiene and sustainability certifications makes us a preferred supplier.
We are expanding our global footprint with focus on exporting high-quality and premium tissue paper products to international markets, such as the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Southeast Asia. With a strong domestic base and an expanding global reach, coupled with increasing demand for premium and eco-friendly tissue papers, Jani Sales Private Limited is wellpositioned to expand its market share and become a key player in the tissue paper industry.
Kempt Tissues: Keeping Sustainability at the Forefront
Incorporated in 2022, the very young Kempt Tissues Private Limited is creating a niche for itself in the pulp and paper industry with high-quality tissue paper & other specialty papers. With a current capacity of 2000 TPM, the Gujarat based company is looking forward to expanding its presence in emerging markets where hygiene awareness and disposable income are on the rise. During an exclusive interaction with Paper Mart, Mr. Abhishek Agarwal, Executive Director & CEO of the company, forecast that the tissue paper market was set for a boom, owing to increasing awareness over sustainability and hygiene.
Paper Mart: Kindly tell us about Kempt Tissues Private Limited, highlighting your manufacturing facilities and capacities.
Abhishek Agarwal: Kempt Tissues Private Limited was founded by me and Mr. Dinesh Agarwal with a long-term vision of establishing the company as one of India’s leading manufacturers of hygienic paper and paper products. We are a Gujaratbased manufacturing company involved in the production of tissue paper and other specialty papers.
We are a team of professionals, who understand the customers’ needs and try to fulfill those requirements in an appropriate span of time with
acceptable quality. We believe in supplying ‘quality products’ at ‘best’ prices.
Our manufacturing units are equipped with the latest and stateof-the-art technology imported from Germany (Voith). Our monthly production capacity is around 2000 tons. Our final machine deckle PM1 is 3350 mm. Our raw materials are mainly softwood pulp, hardwood pulp and some recycled grades from the US or European region. We are maintaining quality parameters in every grade according to international standards and every supply is verified by our QC team on a regular basis. We have certification
like ISO 9001:2015 for quality management system, FSC COC (FSC C209630) mark of responsible forestry and food grade certificate.
PM: What grades of tissue paper do you currently produce?
AA: We mainly produce white napkin tissue HiBrite, (GSM 15-22), white toilet tissue HiBrite (GSM-15-19), white kitchen towel HiBrite (GSM 22-40), white hand towel HiBrite (GSM 22-40) and white MG poster paper HiBrite (GSM 17-50). We also have an in-house sheeting facility for MG poster paper, where we produce sandwich papers and other types of papers in sheet format.
Growing with the Industry
An upcoming media company, Tulip 3P Media brings out publications for different B2B verticals. The activities of the company now embrace events and market research as well. Tulip is currently on its way to further expanding its publication portfolio through publications for other business verticals and a rich offering of other niche media services.
Mr. Abhishek Agarwal, Executive Director & CEO, Kempt Tissues Private Limited
PM: Kindly share information about the primary applications of tissue paper manufactured by you.
AA: Our tissue paper primarily finds application in sectors such as personal hygiene, cleaning & maintenance, dining & catering and in retail and commercial segments. Our products are amongst one of the most widely used toilet papers globally. Since our facial tissue papers are softer and more delicate compared to toilet papers, they are majorly used for cleaning the face or wiping away nasal secretions. The paper towels are used for drying hands, wiping down surfaces, cleaning spills and general cleaning purposes. They’re often found in kitchens, bathrooms and public restrooms. Our kitchen rolls are more durable than paper towels and designed for tasks such as food preparation, absorbing liquids, or cleaning greasy messes.
The napkins produced by Kempt Tissues are used during meals in households, restaurants and catering services. These can range from simple, single-ply paper napkins to more premium, cloth-like versions in restaurants and events. The tissue paper is also used for packaging purposes in the retail sector to wrap fragile items or as part of gift packaging. Bulk rolls of our tissues are used in factories, restaurants and office settings for cleaning and
wiping machinery, equipment, or surfaces.
PM: Shed light on your key clientele and market footprint with regard to domestic consumption and exports.
AA: Our market footprint spans both domestic and international markets. Domestically, we have a strong presence, serving a wide range of clients including tissue paper jumbo roll distributors, exporters and major tissue paper product converters across India. We operate through a dealer-distributor network model, ensuring widespread availability of our products.
In terms of exports, we cater to several international markets like Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, African countries, Belgium, Mexico and many more, meeting the needs of clients looking for high-quality paper products. Our ability to maintain consistent product quality and timely delivery has helped us establish a reliable reputation in global markets. Overall, our footprint spans both domestic and international markets, with continued growth driven by consumer trends towards premium and sustainable tissue products. We are committed to expanding our presence in emerging markets, where hygiene awareness and disposable income are on the rise.
PM: What unique features or innovations set your tissue paper products and production processes apart from competitors?
AA: Our products stand out in the market due to a combination of unique features, such as the premium softness & strength of tissue papers, innovative production process, advanced technology, a strong commitment to sustainability, and a customer-centric approach. We use advanced technology to create ultra-soft, multi-ply tissue paper without compromising on strength and durability. Our tissue papers provide an exceptional
balance of comfort and absorbency, making them ideal for both personal hygiene and household cleaning needs.
Our production processes incorporate cutting-edge machinery and automation, ensuring higher efficiency, faster production times and a consistent paper quality. We continuously invest in R&D to improve our manufacturing techniques, which helps us reduce resource consumption and improve the overall performance of our paper. We listen closely to consumer feedback and adapt our paper & services accordingly. Our customercentric approach allows us to offer products in various sizes, grades and GSM options to suit different needs, from individual convertors to largescale commercial users. Overall, our commitment to sustainability, combined with our focus on highquality, innovative products, sets us apart from competitors in the tissue paper industry. We are constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible to deliver superior paper that meets the evolving needs of consumers.
PM: How do you incorporate sustainability or eco-friendly practices into your production process?
AA: Sustainability is a core value in our production process and we take several key steps to ensure that our operations are as ecofriendly as possible. Our tissue paper products are made from responsibly sourced wood pulp coming from certified sustainable forests, recycled paper and, wherever possible, 100 percent recycled materials only. We use recycled fibers in many of our products, reducing the need for virgin materials and minimizing deforestation. Our commitment to sustainable sourcing is reflected in our adherence to global standards such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification, ensuring that our raw materials are ethically sourced.
We continually innovate our processes to minimize waste, reduce energy consumption and lower our carbon footprint. We have invested in energy-efficient machinery and have implemented smart manufacturing techniques to reduce overall energy usage. Additionally, we utilize renewable energy sources, such as solar wherever possible to power our operations, which significantly lowers our carbon footprint.
We operate on a zero-waste-tolandfill model, ensuring that all byproducts of our manufacturing process are either recycled or repurposed. Scrap materials, such as paper trimmings or defective batches, are reprocessed into secondary raw materials for reuse in our industries. This practice helps minimize waste and supports a circular economy. Water is a vital resource in tissue paper production and we take measures to ensure that our water usage is optimized and waste is minimized. We employ water recycling systems in our facilities, which allow us to reuse water during production, significantly reducing our water consumption.
We are always looking for new ways to improve the sustainability of our operations. Our R&D teams are focused on developing new, innovative materials and processes that further reduce environmental impact, such as recycled tissue paper options, and advancements in production that reduce the overall energy and water use.
By integrating these eco-friendly practices throughout our production process, we ensure that sustainability is at the forefront of everything we do, from raw material sourcing to packaging and distribution. This commitment helps us meet the growing demand for environmentally conscious products while minimizing our environmental impact.
PM: How would you describe the current market scenario for the
tissue paper segment? What are the factors behind the growth of this segment?
AA: The current market scenario for the tissue paper segment is dynamic and evolving, with several key trends shaping its growth. Overall, the market is experiencing steady expansion, driven by fundamental hygiene needs, and increasing consumer preferences for premium, eco-friendly and sustainable products. The factors influencing the market today include digital & e-commerce growth, price sensitivity & competition, and growth in emerging markets.
The global focus on hygiene, particularly post-pandemic, has significantly boosted the demand for tissue paper products. Sustainability is a key trend in the tissue paper industry, with more consumers seeking eco-friendly alternatives. There is a growing shift toward products made from recycled materials or sustainably sourced wood pulp. Manufacturers are increasingly investing in innovations such as biodegradable tissue products, sustainable packaging and energy-efficient production processes. This trend aligns with the global push for environmentally conscious consumerism and is becoming a crucial competitive differentiator in the market.
While basic tissue paper products continue to have a strong demand, there is also a noticeable shift toward premium tissue paper offerings. Consumers are looking for higherquality products with enhanced features such as added softness, moisture-locking capabilities and even skincare benefits. This trend towards premiumization is driving growth in categories like luxury facial tissues, multi-ply toilet paper and specialty paper towels.
The rise of online shopping is reshaping the tissue paper market, with e-commerce platforms becoming a significant distribution
channel. Consumers are increasingly opting for convenience and bulk purchasing options online. This shift is not only convenient for the end consumer, but also opens up new opportunities for manufacturers to reach broader audiences through subscription services and targeted digital marketing.
While premium paper production is on the rise, price sensitivity remains an important factor for a large segment of the market. As a result, manufacturers are focused on balancing quality with costeffectiveness to cater to different consumer segments. The market is highly competitive, with numerous new manufacturing companies vying for attention and price wars between competitors in the basic tissue paper segment becoming a common factor.
The demand for tissue products in emerging markets is growing rapidly. As disposable incomes rise and living standards improve, more consumers in regions like Southeast Asia, Latin America and parts of Africa are adopting modern hygiene practices. This presents a significant opportunity for tissue paper manufacturers to expand their footprint in these regions, especially as urbanization increases.
Seasonality plays a role in boosting tissue paper sales, with higher demand during cold and flu seasons or the holiday period when people tend to stock up on hygiene products. Additionally, factors like festivals or large events also drive short-term spikes in tissue paper consumption.
Taken together, these factors point towards a market that’s not only growing, but evolving to meet changing consumer demands, technological advancements and sustainability pressures. The tissue paper segment is positioned for sustained growth in both developed and emerging markets due to these diverse drivers.
MEPCO’s Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co. Plans to Double its Production Capacity to 120,000 Tonnes by 2026
Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co., a leading tissue paper manufacturer under the MEPCO Group, holds 20% market share in Saudi Arabia with a current production capacity of 60,000 tonnes. The company is set to double its capacity to 120,000 tonnes by 2026 to meet the rising demand in the tissue paper segment. In an exclusive interview with Paper Mart, Eng. Adel Al-Far, Operations Director, and Mr. Rizkallah Saba, Sales Manager, Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co., share insights into the company’s latest advancements in the tissue paper sector.
Paper Mart: How would you describe the current market scenario for the tissue paper segment?
Adel Alfar: The tissue paper market in Saudi Arabia is on an upward trajectory, driven by demographic shifts, increased health consciousness, and evolving consumer preferences. However, the market has become highly price-sensitive due to rising competition, as more tissue paper converter companies enter the sector. At the same time, the demand continues to grow, reinforcing the industry’s strategic importance in the segment.
PM: What are the key factors driving the growing tissue paper market in the region?
Rizkallah Saba: Several factors contribute to the growing demand for tissue paper in Saudi Arabia, including Vision 2030 initiatives, Away-from-Home (AFH) sector growth, health & hygiene awareness, and e-commerce expansion.
Eng. Adel Al-Far, Operations Director, Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co.
Under Vision 2030 initiatives, the expansion of many tissue paper converters and an increase in mother jumbo roll production capacity align with Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification plans. Apart from that, the rapid expansion of restaurants, cafés, and hotels, that is, the HoReCa sector, is boosting demand for tissue products. Moreover, there is greater emphasis on personal and household cleanliness that has fueled the need for high-quality tissue paper, and lastly, the surge in online sales reflects a shift toward digital shopping, further strengthening tissue paper consumption patterns.
PM: Can you provide background on your paper mill(s) catering to the tissue paper segment and their production capacities?
RS: Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co. operates a state-of-the-art, fully automated production facility, ensuring high efficiency and reliability. Our current tissue paper production capacity stands at 60,000 tonnes, with plans to double it to 120,000 tonnes by 2026 to meet growing market demand in the tissue paper segment.
PM: What grades of tissue paper do you currently produce?
Mr. Rizkallah Saba, Sales Manager, Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co.
AA: Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co. manufactures a comprehensive range of tissue paper products, including facial tissues, toilet tissues, kitchen towels, napkins, and industrial rolls.
PM: Can you describe the primary applications of your tissue paper and your key clients?
RS: Our tissue paper products cater to a diverse range of applications, including household and personal care, commercial and institutional use (restaurants, hotels, offices), and industrial applications. Our key clients include leading tissue converters, major retailers, and businesses across the HoReCa and AFH sectors.
PM: What is your market footprint in terms of domestic consumption and exports?
RS: Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co. holds a 20% market share within Saudi Arabia, covering almost all regions. Additionally, exports represent 14% of our total sales, reflecting our strong presence in international markets.
PM: What unique features or innovations set your tissue paper products and production
The tissue paper market in Saudi Arabia is on an upward trajectory, driven by demographic shifts, increased health consciousness, and evolving consumer preferences.
“ “
processes apart from competitors?
AA: Juthor Paper Manufacturing Co.’s tissue production facility is fully automated, ensuring consistent quality and production efficiency. This advanced setup makes us a reliable partner in both capacity and quality, positioning the company at the forefront of the industry.
PM: How do you incorporate sustainability and eco-friendly practices into your production process?
AA: Sustainability is at the core of our operations. Our key initiatives include responsible sourcing, energy efficiency, and water recycling. We use FSC-certified pulp sourced from controlled and well-managed forests. Our cogeneration power plant operates on natural gas, which is one of the most energy-efficient technologies, and we actively reuse water in our processes to minimize consumption and reduce environmental impact.
PM: How do you envision market demand and opportunities for the tissue paper segment considering the evolving sustainability and hygiene trends?
RS: Saudi Arabia’s tissue paper
market will continue its growth trajectory, fuelled by rising hygiene awareness, population expansion, and the increasing AFH sector. Companies investing in controlled virgin fiber sourcing and energy-efficient production will have a competitive edge, attracting institutional funding and strengthening their market position.
“With a current capacity of 60,000 tonnes, the company is set to double its tissue paper production capacity to 120,000 tonnes by 2026 to meet the rising demand in the tissue paper segment.
Crown Paper Mill Unveils 60,000 TPA Tissue Paper Mill in Saudi Arabia
Crown Paper Mill (CPM) has unveiled a new tissue paper mill in Saudi Arabia, featuring a high-speed Valmet tissue paper machine— the fastest in the world capable of producing 2,200 meters of tissue paper per minute. With an initial capacity of 60,000 metric tonnes per year, the facility will boost CPM’s total manufacturing capabilities to 160,000 metric tonnes annually. In an exclusive with Paper Mart, Mr. Abdullah Al Khateeb, Managing Director of CPM and Ittihad Paper Mill (IPM), shares about the mill’s expansion in Saudi Arabia, and further plans about establishing presence beyond Saudi- across the MENA region. The company eyes to develop new innovative tissue paper products, and an investment in next-gen sustainable technologies to reduce environmental footprint.
Paper Mart: Can you provide an overview of the new tissue paper mill in Saudi Arabia?
Abdullah Al Khateeb: Our newly established tissue paper mill in Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone in the region’s paper industry. As part of our strategic vision to expand our manufacturing capabilities, this facility represents a substantial investment aimed at revolutionizing tissue paper production. The project was driven by our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and efficiency.
To ensure we achieve world-class production standards, we partnered with Valmet, a globally recognized leader in paper industry technologies. By incorporating cutting-edge machinery and implementing a phased development strategy, we have successfully built a stateof-the-art manufacturing plant that prioritizes highquality output while minimizing energy and chemical consumption.
This new facility strengthens our foothold in the MENA region, reinforcing our commitment to providing premium tissue paper products that cater to growing consumer and industrial demands.
PM: Can you elaborate on the state-of-the-art
Mr. Abdullah Al Khateeb, Managing Director of CPM and Ittihad Paper Mill (IPM)
infrastructure setup and the production capacity?
AAK: The new mill is equipped with some of the most advanced infrastructure and manufacturing technologies available in the industry. At the heart of our operations is a high-speed Valmet machine, capable of producing tissue paper at an impressive speed of 2,200 meters per minute, making it the fastest tissue paper machine in the world.
With an initial production capacity of 60,000 metric tonnes per year, this facility is set to significantly enhance our overall manufacturing capabilities. As part of our long-term growth strategy, we have already planned future expansions that will increase our total production capacity to 160,000 metric tonnes per year, further strengthening our position as a market leader.
PM: What is the comprehensive product range offered and innovations introduced in the new mill?
AAK: Our new tissue paper mill is designed to manufacture a wide range of high-quality tissue paper products tailored to meet diverse consumer needs. Our product lineup include: toilet paper – designed for superior softness and strength; paper towels – highly absorbent and durable for home and commercial use;
maxi rolls – ideal for large-scale usage in the hospitality and healthcare sectors; napkins – crafted for premium softness and convenience; and facial tissue paper –delicate yet strong, offering the best in comfort and hygiene.
By leveraging Valmet’s latest technology, we are able to produce tissue paper with enhanced softness, strength, and absorbency, ensuring superior quality across all our product categories. Additionally, our commitment to sustainability drives us to develop eco-friendly tissue paper products with a lower environmental footprint, aligning with global sustainability goals.
PM: How does your mill stand apart from the rest of the competitive tissue paper mills? Please tell us about the cutting-edge technologies and sustainable manufacturing operations practiced at your mill.
AAK: One of the standout features of our new mill is the integration of Valmet’s state-of-the-art machinery, which offers numerous advantages such as higher production efficiency – faster processing speeds ensure greater output without compromising quality; reduced energy consumption – advanced technology minimizes power usage, leading to significant cost savings and lower environmental impact; minimized chemical usage
– innovative processing techniques allow us to use fewer chemicals while maintaining superior tissue quality; and optimized raw material utilization – advanced fiber treatment processes enhance product quality while reducing waste.
By embracing these next-generation manufacturing technologies, we are not only increasing efficiency but also positioning ourselves as a pioneer in sustainable tissue production.
PM: How do you envision the market demand and industry growth trends evolving over the years?
AAK: The tissue paper industry has witnessed unprecedented growth in recent years, fuelled by an increasing global focus on hygiene and sanitation. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this demand, making tissue paper products an essential commodity in households, businesses, and healthcare facilities.
With an initial production capacity of 60,000 metric tonnes per year, this facility is set to significantly enhance CPM’s overall manufacturing capabilities to 160,000 metric tonnes per year.
“ “
As consumer awareness regarding hygiene continues to rise, the market demand for high-quality tissue products will grow exponentially. Our new mill is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends, delivering innovative, eco-friendly, and high-performance tissue products that cater to the evolving needs of both retail and commercial customers.
PM: What are your key target market segments?
AAK: Our tissue mill will serve a diverse range of market segments, ensuring we cater to various consumer and industrial needs. We will cater to the consumer goods market – supplying top-tier tissue products to retail customers across supermarkets, hypermarkets, and e-commerce platforms; Away-From-Home (AFH) market – providing high-volume tissue solutions for hotels, restaurants, malls, offices, healthcare institutions, and public facilities; and industrial customers – delivering customized solutions to businesses requiring bulk tissue paper for further processing and packaging.
Our ability to manufacture tissue products with varying softness, strength, and absorbency levels ensures that we meet the unique preferences of each market segment. Furthermore, our commitment to sustainability allows us to develop customized, eco-friendly solutions tailored to the specific needs of our clients.
PM: What are your future plans? Do you plan to expand beyond Saudi Arabia?
AAK: The launch of this tissue paper mill is just the beginning of our long-term vision. We have ambitious plans for continuous growth and expansion, which include: increasing production capacity to meet the ever-growing market demand, expanding our product
range by developing new and innovative tissue products, exploring new markets beyond Saudi Arabia to establish a strong presence across the MENA region, and investing in next-generation sustainable technologies to further reduce our environmental footprint.
We are confident that this new facility will elevate our status as a dominant player in the tissue paper industry, not just in Saudi Arabia, but across the Middle East. PM4
is just the beginning—we are committed to expanding our footprint across all MENA regions, solidifying our leadership in premium tissue paper manufacturing.
With this state-of-the-art tissue mill, we are shaping the future of the industry, setting new standards for quality, efficiency, and sustainability. This is just the start of our journey towards becoming a global leader in tissue paper production.
“At the heart of the operations of this new mill is Valmet’s high-speed tissue paper machine, capable of producing tissue paper at an impressive speed of 2,200 meters per minute, making it the fastest tissue paper machine in the world.
“JMC Paper Tech Inaugurates First Indian Paper Mill in Mexico
The state-of-the-art 200 TPD Kraft test liner, the first paper mill in Ciudad Juárez, will produce 100 percent recycled test liner paper.
Jan27,2025
Balaji
JMC Paper Mill, a subsidiary of JMC Paper Tech Private Limited, has inaugurated a 200 TPD Kraft test liner, the first-ever Indian paper mill in Mexico and the first paper mill within Ciudad Juárez.
Equipped with a state-of-the-art effluent treatment plant, the mill will produce 100 percent recycled test liner paper. It incorporates high-speed automation, optimized stock preparation and energy consumption, along with cutting-edge control systems, to ensure precision, superior quality and efficiency. One of the most advanced mills in the region, which supports the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions, reflects JMC Paper Tech’s expertise in providing comprehensive solutions, from design to commissioning, with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
Ms. Yesha Patel, the CEO of Balaji JMC Paper Mill, said, “As we look to the future, our ambitions extend far beyond today’s achievements. Over the next decade, we aim to expand operations, diversify our products, and solidify our position as a leader in sustainable manufacturing throughout Mexico. This is not just a journey for Balaji JMC Paper Mill; it is a shared vision for growth, innovation, and progress that we hope to achieve alongside the community of Mexico.”
Balaji JMC Paper Mill represents a USD 60 million investment in the Ciudad Juárez region, creating over 200 direct jobs and 1000 indirect opportunities across the supply chain. With plans for future expansion, the group aims to invest USD 200 million throughout Mexico over the next five years and USD 500 million over the next decade, positioning Ciudad Juárez and other major cities throughout Mexico as a hub for sustainable and innovative manufacturing.
The venture is a trailblazing collaboration that unites expertise and investment from three countries - India, Mexico and the US, symbolizing an enduring partnership across continents.
Redefining Tissue Paper Manufacturing: Smarter, Greener, Better
Take a moment to think about this— how many tissue papers, napkins, and paper towels do we use in a single day? Now, multiply that by billions. The demand for hygienerelated paper products is at an all-time high. But with this growing demand comes a set of critical challenges that the industry must address.
The global tissue paper market is witnessing an unprecedented surge, with demand expected to reach USD 102.57 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 5.9%. However, with this growth comes a set of challenges— fiber shortages, increasing raw material costs, and rising energy consumption. As sustainability regulations tighten and consumer preferences shift toward eco-friendly products, manufacturers must find innovative ways to balance efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Rethinking Tissue Paper Manufacturing: Addressing Industry Challenges
Parason, a global leader in pulp and paper technology, is at the forefront of revolutionizing tissue paper manufacturing. By integrating cutting-edge technology, sustainability-driven processes, and
Mr. Madhure Desarda, Director, Parason
resource-efficient designs, Parason is reshaping how tissue paper is produced.
One of the most pressing concerns today is raw material scarcity. To combat fiber shortages, Parason has optimized its machines for 100% recycled fiber processing, ensuring a circular economy approach to tissue paper manufacturing. Additionally, the company is investing in alternative fiber sources such as agricultural waste and bamboo pulp to provide manufacturers with a sustainable and stable supply chain.
Energy consumption remains a critical challenge. With heat recovery systems, automation, and ecofriendly drying solutions, Parason’s tissue paper machines reduce energy costs by up to 10-20%, making operations both cost-effective and environmentally responsible. By reducing dependency on conventional energy sources, manufacturers can significantly cut down on their carbon footprint, aligning with global sustainability goals.
The Technology Driving Efficiency & Performance
The tissue paper industry is evolving, and Parason is driving this change with innovative solutions that make production more efficient, sustainable, and high-quality. Our hydraulic headbox ensures even pulp distribution, resulting in smooth and consistent sheet formation. The crescent former enhances the softness and strength of tissue paper, meeting the growing demand for premium products. To optimize drying, our yankee cylinder with hood reduces heat loss, ensuring an energy-efficient drying process. The touch roll ensures uniform drying, while the doctoring system keeps the cylinder clean for uninterrupted operation.
Efficiency is further enhanced with our pope reel and high-speed triple ply rewinder, ensuring precision
and productivity in roll conversion. Additionally, our suction couch roll, suction touch roll, and dewatering elements play a crucial role in water removal, improving sheet formation and reducing energy use. With an end-to-end integrated system— from pulper to rewinder, Parason is making tissue paper manufacturing simpler, greener, and more productive than ever before.
With a GSM range of 13.5 to 40 GSM and a production capacity of 100 TPD, our solutions cater to a wide array of tissue paper products, from facial tissue papers to high-strength kitchen towels.
Sustainability at the Core of Innovation
Beyond operational efficiency, Parason is committed to environmental stewardship. By integrating wastewater management systems such as ETP (Effluent Treatment Plant, manufacturers can significantly reduce freshwater usage, minimizing their ecological footprint. The company also collaborates with industry regulators to ensure its technologies align with the latest environmental standards.
In addition to water conservation, Parason’s advanced fiber recovery systems enable manufacturers to extract maximum value from recycled fibers, reducing waste and lowering production costs. These initiatives support the industry’s transition toward zero-waste manufacturing, where every resource is utilized efficiently.
Adapting to Market Trends and Consumer Expectations
The tissue paper market is evolving rapidly, driven by shifting consumer preferences and regulatory pressures. Parason helps tissue paper manufacturers stay ahead by offering solutions that enhance both product performance and environmental responsibility.
CORE STRENGTHS
• Complete Turnkey Solution
• GSM Range: 13.5 - 40
• Capacity: 100 TPD
• Energy-Efficient Drying
• Superior Built Technology
• Process & R&D Innovation
• Reliable After-Sales Support
• Triple Ply Rewinder
Additionally, automation and smart manufacturing are transforming the industry. Parason’s intelligent process monitoring and AI-driven automation help manufacturers enhance
efficiency, reduce downtime, and optimize resource utilization. With remote monitoring capabilities, operators can track machine performance in real time, improving predictive maintenance and minimizing operational disruptions.
A Vision for the Future
Parason has introduced groundbreaking technologies to optimize energy use, ensuring both cost efficiency and sustainability. Our heat recovery systems capture and reuse excess thermal energy, significantly reducing waste. Smart process controls, powered by automation, regulate energy consumption in real time. Ecofriendly hood drying technology minimizes energy demand while maintaining uniform drying quality.
These innovations have helped our clients achieve up to a 1020% reduction in energy costs compared to conventional tissue paper machines, reinforcing our commitment to energy efficient manufacturing.
Parason believes the tissue paper industry is on the brink of a major transformation. Smart factories, self-regulating machinery, and advanced ETP systems will redefine manufacturing, making it more sustainable and cost-effective than ever before. By continuously innovating, Parason is positioning itself as a pioneer in this transition.
Partnering for a Greener Tomorrow
Parason is actively engaging with tissue paper manufacturers worldwide, providing tailored solutions to optimize production efficiency while prioritizing sustainability. Industry professionals can connect with Parason through its website, expert consultations, and upcoming sustainability-focused events.
As the tissue paper industry evolves, Parason stands as a driving force, ensuring that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand—
paving the way for a greener and more efficient future.
Final Thoughts from Leadership
Sustainability is not just a goal; it is the future of manufacturing. At Parason, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation to develop solutions that are both efficient and environmentally responsible. Our latest advancements in fiber recovery, energy efficiency, and process automation are setting new industry benchmarks.
As India’s leading end-to-end supplier for tissue machines, we provide complete solutions from raw material optimization to the final product, ensuring seamless integration, cost efficiency, and superior quality. The choices we make today will shape the future of tissue paper manufacturing, and we are determined to make sustainability the standard— not an option.
Parason has optimized its machines for 100% recycled fiber processing, ensuring a circular economy approach to tissue paper manufacturing. Additionally, the company is investing in alternative fiber sources such as agricultural waste and bamboo pulp to provide manufacturers with a sustainable and stable supply chain.
N R Agarwal Industries Start 685 TPD FibreFlow Drum Pulper at Vapi Mill
With a capacity of 685 TPD, the line provides superior recycled fiber for the largest coated duplex board machine in India.
Mar19,2025
NRAgarwal Industries Limited, leading manufacturers of recycled paper products such as duplex boards, writing & printing papers and newsprint, for both domestic and international markets, have successfully started a state-of-the-art recycled fiber line at its mill located in Vapi, Gujarat.
Delivered by international technology group ANDRITZ, the new line comprises a four-layer paper machine approach system, a broke handling system and a fiber recovery system to process a mixture of SOP, CBS and high-bright paper. With a capacity of 685 TPD, the line provides superior recycled fiber for the largest coated duplex board machine in India.
ANDRITZ supplied innovative technology and equipment to improve capacity and reliability, including the largest FibreFlow drum Prime (FFD) in India with a length of 32 m and inner diameter of 3.5 m for gentle slushing and efficient removal of coarse contaminants with minimal fiber loss; a PrimeScreen X, including the innovative PrimeRotor, for enhanced screening efficiency and significantly reduced energy
consumption; and a compactly designed paper machine approach flow (PMA) system for even and stable pulp supply with lowest energy consumption and maintenance
Mr. S. Venkatesh, President Technical Operations at N R Agarwal, says, “We are delighted with the successful start-up of the recycled fiber line. The experts from ANDRITZ have been highly professional and supportive throughout the project. We are confident that the line will enhance our production capabilities and contribute to our sustainability goals.”
Start-up of the largest ANDRITZ FibreFlow drum pulper in India
Abu Dhabi National Paper Mill Plans to Expand Market Footprint
Abu Dhabi National Paper Mill (ADNPM) is looking forward to expanding its global market footprint, as well as retain leadership in the UAE market. Emphasizing sustainability at its heart, the company contributes towards a circular economy and has re-acquired the EcoLabel certification. Mr. Michael Shamma, General Manager, ADNPM, revealed this and much more during a recent interaction with Paper Mart.
Paper Mart: Kindly tell us about Abu Dhabi National Paper Mill LLC, highlighting major achievements and crucial milestones.
Michael Shamma: Set up in the year 2000, Abu Dhabi National Paper Mill LLC is the leading and most advanced manufacturer of hygienic jumbo tissue paper rolls in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Spread over 60,000 square meters, the plant houses 3 state-of-the-art tissue paper machines- 2 Crescent Former Machines from OverMeccanica S.p.A., Italy and 1 New Textured Tissue (NTT) machine from Valmet, which produces a high premium tissue paper. There are only 13 of these NTT machines worldwide in operation. Our total manufacturing capacity is about 95,000 TPA. Our main market is the UAE, followed by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and our export business is mainly in the US, Europe and Africa.
PM: Tell us more about the NTT technology you have invested in.
MS: We were the first ones in the Middle East to purchase the advanced New Textured Tissue Machine (NTT). It was the third machine in the world of such kind when we bought it, following the other two which were located in Mexico and Chile. Today there are 13 of these NTT machines in the world. The tissue paper manufactured from Valmet’s NTT machine has better strength, very high absorption and
Mr. Michael Shamma, General Manager, ADNPM
very high water retention, which reduces tissue paper consumption and the overall amount of waste. The tissue paper produced by the NTT machine differs from conventional tissue paper in terms of thickness. With the NTT machine, tissue paper is even softer, extremely soft for a facial grade, while at the same time retaining good bulk. Therefore, this very bulky facial product allows our customers to reduce the number of sheets, but still have a very bulky package. It is thick enough that instead of using several layers, you only need one layer. The premium tissue paper is very popular in Europe, the US and Latin America, especially in high-premium segments like kitchen towels (or Maxi rolls), but also at international airports or malls.
PM: Tell us about your product line and its major applications. Also, give details about your market footprint.
MS: We produce only tissue paper jumbo rolls for different sectors, such as the facial, kitchen towel, bath and away-from-home segment. We are one of the largest players in the UAE, having a very strong presence in this market, owing to several years of experience. Fifty percent of our business comes from the UAE. The remaining 50 percent is pretty
“Our efforts will always focus on sustainability. We recently re-acquired the EcoLabel. We are planning to acquire additional certificates to highlight our efforts in the field of sustainability.
“much spread between the GCC and export business away from the GCC. Since the US is considered a net importer, which means it has less paper producing capacity compared to the demand, we are currently concentrating on that country for NTT paper as well as conventional tissue paper. Our NTT paper is also highly popular in Latin America, where we are increasing our market share
PM: How do you ensure sustainability in your business operations?
MS: Abu Dhabi National Paper Mill ensures sustainability by incorporating various eco friendly technologies in its operations. We
are one of the few players having a de-inking plant, which means that we are able to produce brown paper from recycled waste. By reducing overall waste, we can reproduce paper and turn it into recycled brown paper, therefore our paper can be re-used, recycled, is compostable and biodegradable. We have a water treatment facility and are planning on expanding its capacity to allow us to recycle about 75 percent of our water. We have recently invested in a new large boiler, which allows less consumption of gas and reduces our CO2 footprint. When it comes to sourcing of raw material, we only use FSC certified pulp as raw material. In this way, we not only decrease deforestation, but also help in building a circular economy.
PM: Tell us about your future plans.
MS: Our vision is to retain our leadership in the UAE market, which we perceive as our home market. Our efforts will always focus on sustainability. We recently re-acquired the EcoLabel and are planning to acquire additional certificates to highlight our efforts in the field of sustainability.
Several projects are currently in the pipeline, including plans to expand our market footprint.
JK Paper Acquires Quadragen Vethealth for INR 460 Crore
JK Paper diversifies into the speciality animal health business with the acquisition of Quadragen Vethealth worth INR 460 crore.
Jan31,2025
JK Paper Limited has acquired Quadragen Vethealth Private Limited (QVPL) in an all-cash deal worth INR 460 crore to diversify into the speciality animal health, nutrition, and feed additives business.
As per the exchange filing, the company has an upfront acquisition of a 65% stake in QVPL, with the remaining expected to be bought in four years.
Harsh Pati Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director at JK Paper, emphasized that this is a strategic acquisition in a promising and rapidly developing industry segment and provides a new opportunity for the company to grow. NEWS
BTG Group Continues to Invest in India
BTG Group is looking forward to a robust growth in the Indian pulp and paper industry through a slew of measures, including business footprint expansion, hiring of new talent and further expanding their Center of Excellence in Hyderabad. The company foresees doubling of capacity in India in the next 10-15 years and says it is well-positioned to accelerate its position in the Indian market. This was revealed by Dr. Dan Smith, Business Director, Process Solutions at BTG Group and Mr. Akhlesh Mathur, Head of Business South Asia & Southeast Asia for BTG Group, during an exclusive interaction with Paper Mart.
Paper Mart: Please tell us about the most recent innovations in BTG Group’s product portfolio catering to the pulp and paper industry.
Akhlesh Mathur: A lot of technological innovations have been going on in the BTG world in process and control business, as well as on the consumables side of the business. We have completely transformed our business operations in the past decade, focused entirely on customer engagement and
satisfaction. Our field force spends a disproportionate amount of time understanding our customer’s pain points and priorities aligning with their business goals. Our global + local teams after relevant audits and data analysis develop customized and grounded solutions to solve our customer’s problems in a sequential way, while making sure that the benefits they get at the end of these solutions are also sustainable.
Another technology expansion
event took place last year when we acquired FITNIR Analyzers Inc, a Canadian company that started as a JV between PAPRICAN (now FP Innovations) and Kvaerner Chemetics. This brings to BTG a novel online anlayzer based on FT-NIR spectroscopy that provides key measurements for process optimization in the liquor phase (online and benchtop units) and ultimately cost savings to pulp mills. While BTG Group had a very strong portfolio as a provider of highly-specialized process solutions
(L to R) Dr. Dan Smith, Business Director, Process Solutions & Mr. Akhlesh Mathur, Head of Business South Asia & Southeast Asia for BTG Group
for the global pulp and paper industry, it hardly had any presence on the liquor side. With FITNIR, we have come full circle. It has broadened our product offerings, including in cooking, bleaching & chemical recovery, and made us a multinational provider of end to end process solutions for the paper market.
Dan Smith: We’ve been in the consistency business for over 100 years now. BTG Group has a deep portfolio of solutions that transform operations at pulp mills, tissue, paperboard and paper mills to increase overall business performance, with proven benefits at all levels. We recently launched MEK Stratus, the latest version of our highly-successful fifth-generation MEK-3000 rotary consistency transmitters and the first instrument to seamlessly connect with the new BTG Stratus platform. This rotating inline transmitter gives the customers critical information about the production rate of their paper machine, bleach plant and digester by measuring the consistency rate. With twice the torque, stronger motors and no need for sealing water, MEK Stratus offers highly accurate consistency measurements and reduced maintenance. It can handle hot and humid work environments, which makes it ideal for a wide range of applications.
In addition, we have in place a robust process of continuous review of our product and solutions portfolio through periodic mapping exercises from the ground level and then developing or acquiring technologies as required to fill any gaps. We are fortunate to operate as an “Automation arm” of Voith Paper, which fills up the vision of Voith of being a full line supplier and a very relevant and capable parent organization to nurture the development pipeline.
PM: How does the BTG Group stand ahead of its competitors in the global pulp and paper
industry?
DS: We’re continually investing in Research and Development (R&D). Our R&D strategy is quite focused on solving practical problems that help our customers run their operations more efficiently and smoothly. Every year, we come out with some new instruments or analyzers, along with upgrades of existing ones. It’s a never-ending process of inventing new things and upgrading existing products.
AM: What really sets us apart from our peers and makes us feel more engaged and meaningful is the way we help our customers solve their problems. We are a very lean and efficient organization, but a niche player in the market we operate in. We have a very strong presence on the ground across regions and geographies. Around twothird of our team works on site, in collaboration with our customers, constantly calibrating ourselves with ever changing customer needs.
PM: How do you help the paper industry to leverage the benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT)?
DS: It comes from the way we do business. We work thoroughly with our customers. It starts by meeting the customers and engaging in discussion about the problems they’ve been encountering. We give them an insight into where exactly the problem lies, followed by an idea of problem-solving techniques and then work collaboratively with them for solutions. We also support our customers after the project to help them realize the sustainable benefits from the same.
AM: We have deployed a lot of AI-based solutions in the region including in India across different processes in paper mills. We have experience at ground level to support our customers traverse any digitalization journey as a consultative approach and indeed have capability to then implement
“
We’ve replicated in India- what we had in Sweden. The decision was not driven by the cost factor alone. We realized that there’s a lot of high technical talent in India and wanted to take advantage of that. This has worked out really well.
“these solutions seamlessly handholding and often in phases. This provides confidence to the customers that they’re not touching something brand new or unproven.
PM: Kindly share details about your close collaboration with Indian paper mills.
AM: We provide solutions to customers like Kuantum Papers Limited, Orient Paper Industries Limited (OPIL) and JK Paper Limited. In almost all cases, we have entered into a multi-year relationship journey with them upfront. Though it took a lot of effort to reach there, the journey has been pretty interesting. Engaging at the right level in an organization is very important. Customers only want to talk to you when they trust you and building that trust is the first step. We first understand their problems and then present to them a plan that is practically possible to do, financially feasible, technically achievable, and also profitable. Doing a project or digitalization with no financial benefit is of no use. We really harp on that a lot.
PM: Elaborate more on the scope of solutions you offer to a customer as part of this relationship.
AM: In almost all cases, we work together with the leadership to develop a clear roadmap of what exactly needs to be done. We make sure to have a very good understanding of the ground realities and processes, including the overarching objectives of the mill and the capabilities of the organization. We also take note of other developments going on in the plant, such as the mill rebuilding a machine or adding some new equipment. We initially focus on low-hanging fruits, do them first and then take other longer projects, financed in phases.
Execution is another important step. Providing hand-holding support and SME’s at every step is critical in this journey and in executing these kinds of projects. You can have all the sweet talks, but if you don’t have the right people on ground doing the right things at the right time, you can’t achieve anything. We are blessed to have a robust infrastructure and good resources to cater to those projects. Being a conservative business group, we believe in promising reasonable returns and overdelivering during execution instead of other way round.
DS: We have been working for several years now to pull that capability together. We have been diligently building up a team for more than six years now. A part of that is having our Center of Excellence in Hyderabad, attracting top-level employees. It’s been a continuous process.
PM: Kindly share details about your market footprint in India.
AM: Till seven years ago, in India, we had 6-7 people, mostly customer-facing persons covering the market and a small service center in Hyderabad. We were more of a supplier than a partner to the industry. Then we decided to change things. We started making investments, hired more people on the ground, including in technical support, sales and service
departments. India was presented as BTG’s another technical node supporting the BTG factories in Europe. The decision aligned with our aim to develop a resource footprint in India to support our global growth targets.
DS: We have an R&D group here in India for instrumentation, software and product management. Basically, we’ve replicated in India- what we had in Sweden. The decision was not driven by the cost factor alone. We realized that there’s a lot of high technical talent in India and wanted to take advantage of that. This has worked out really well.
“We have been diligently building up a team for more than six years now. A part of that is having our Center of Excellence in Hyderabad, attracting top-level employees.
“
PM: What are your future plans? Where do you see yourself in India in the next 5-10 years? Do you plan to cater to any new overseas market?
DS: Our Indian team overlooks global operations. They are supporting the solutions and projects all over the world. The business is growing in Asia. India is our center for supporting Asia. It will continue to grow like it has been for the last six years.
AM: We have an ‘India for India’ and ‘India for World’ strategy. When it comes to ‘India for India’, we are hiring people here in sales, application and service departments, to support
the Indian market. As for ‘India for World’, we have hired mechanical engineers, software engineers and advanced control engineers to cater to the global market.
We are expanding our office space and hiring more people in our team. We also plan to build a digital experience center in Hyderabad. In addition, Voith is also planning to operate some of their On Performance Lab (OPL) operations from our Hyderabad office.
PM: What are some of the challenges you encountered in the Indian paper industry?
AM: I see talent as one of the biggest challenges for the Indian paper industry. The experienced people retention rate is low. The paper industry has not been a very attractive workplace to attract the best of talent. It poses a challenge because you still need to run the machines and the show as well. If you don’t have all the talent required to run those machines, you have to depend on something else. That’s where we slice in.
The second challenge for India has been around raw material. Woodbased raw material is scarce in India. There is an opportunity for the Indian paper industry on the sustainability front, as compared to Indonesia, China, or Brazil. There’s a difference in their business model. If you talk to an entrepreneur in Brazil, they first build a forest, followed by a pulp mill and paper machine. We believe the industry leaders are learning from other countries and taking measures to have a more sustainable virgin fiber basket to keep up with the demands of different paper grades. Recycle fiber supply dynamics is also changing rapidly and there are huge opportunities to come up with innovative ideas around optimizing yield and efficiently separating contaminants.
The third challenge is the environ-
ment. The Indian paper industry has not been very careful with their environment. There is a cost of compliance which the industry has not paid so far. If you delay further on that then it will get worse.
DS: Uruguay is also a good example. They started by planting trees and in the past 25 years, they have gone from zero pulp mills to three mega mills. It all started with farmers devoting their land to growing trees.
PM: What kind of role does BTG Group foresee will be played by automation and AI in the pulp and paper industry in the next decade?
DS: For companies like us, the support is going to come globally as we’re more and more connected. It won’t matter where people are, we’ll be able to support our customers 24x7. We have systems in place, experts of data and process. We have support from North America and Europe. One of the reasons we
are here is finding capable people to provide that support.
Many of our customers want to cover a couple of years or decades worth of journey in a one or two year space. It’s quite exciting and interesting to see their commitment to leaping, starting their journey from valves and instrumentation to data systems, advanced controls and ultimately AI & automation.
AM: The Indian paper industry has been shy of investing enough in automation. Automation could start with having proper valves and other field instruments, making sure that these are controlled and maintained well. Then comes the DCS level controls which are often sub-optimized. This foundational infrastructure is critical to have before we harp on reaping benefits out of AI or any other advanced technologies.
The capacities in India are expected
to double in the next 10-15 years. The new asset owners should think about talent, raw material and environment as well in addition to selecting the right technology (including automation).
I think AI and automation have a competitive edge. During the good times, they help you make more money, while in bad times, they become your survival index.
“The business is growing in Asia. India is our center for supporting Asia. It will continue to grow like it has been for the last six years.
“Sri Andal Paper Mills Orders IQ Moisturizer for Kraft Machine from Valmet
Sri Andal Paper Mills has ordered IQ moisturizer for a kraft machine from Valmet. The value-added solution is designed to enhance both product quality and operational efficiency. The delivery is scheduled for the first quarter of 2025. Feb11,2025
Sri Andal Paper Mills has ordered an IQ Moisturizer from Valmet, a moisturizing system with applications for moisture cross-direction profiling, curl control and smooth moisture level increase. It features an air-atomized spray nozzle, a linear water control valve, and a mist removal system. The system is designed to optimize the CD moisture profile, ensuring higher reel build quality and consistent end-product performance. The solution is part of the Valmet IQ Quality Management Solutions for monitoring and optimizing process performance and end-product quality.
“Valmet IQ Moisturizer will bring unmatched benefits in optimizing the cross-directional (CD) moisture profile and improving the overall reel build quality. This investment reflects our commitment to delivering consistent and superior-quality products,” says Mr. Rajath Lal, Unit Head, Sri Andal Paper Mills Private Limited.
This order is part of Sri Andal Paper Mills’ quality improvement initiatives for their kraft paper production. The order is included in Valmet’s orders received in the fourth quarter of 2024. The delivery is scheduled for the first quarter 2025. The value of the order will not be disclosed. NEWS
“Valmet IQ Moisturizer is a value-added solution designed to enhance both product quality and operational efficiency. It will enable Sri Andal Paper Mills to achieve a more consistent moisture profile, improving process reliability and production performance,” says Mr. Ramesh Chandra Chirravuri, Sales Manager, Asia-Pacific, Automation Systems, Valmet.
Lamacart: Strategic Partner of Green Economy
Lamacart is the mother company of the Nicolis family’s many business endeavours. The family’s “passion for recovering things” led to the creation of Museo Nicolis- the car, technical and mechanical museum in Villafranca with its 10 collections of vintage cars, motorbikes and bicycles, musical instruments, cameras, typewriters, small airplanes, a rare collection of 100 Formula 1 steering wheels and original works of human talent.
A “contagious” passion which lies at the very foundations of the family business – making it into an industrial activity – and the Museum’s, which was created by Luciano Nicolis, the entrepreneur passed away, to accompany his activity as a collector and culture sponsor.
The passion for recovery that Luciano’s children, Silvia and Thomas, share has led them to see, where others only see “scrap”, true mechanical gems that had the potential to be recovered, restored and brought back to their original splendour. In this way, and especially in the vintage car sector, a historical and cultural patrimony that otherwise might have been lost forever, has been returned to Italy.
Mr. Luciano Nicolis, Founder, Museo Nicolis
History
It was back in 1934 when Francesco Nicolis, father of Luciano Nicolis, perceptive to all forms of saving and equipped with an acute intelligence, decided to collect what other people threw away: waste paper. Urged on by his son, Luciano, the activity expanded rapidly and, in the early ‘60s, a further impulse transformed the family business into a leading group in Europe for the recovery of paper and a solid reference point in the international environmental service sector.
The concepts of “collect and re-use” which led to the growth of the paper business, are the very same that nurtured Luciano Nicolis’ highly selective passion for collecting, so that he was able to perceive the value of refined products of human genius that had been forgotten or deemed worthless. His tireless search led him to travel the world to hunt down and recover classic cars and other valuable artefacts to then restore them and return them to their original splendour: a passion that has given a patrimony, that might otherwise have been lost, back to history and which is now available to the community.
Resourcefulness, the courage to take risks, intuition about the market potential, are all factors that guided Luciano’s decision to undertake an ‘unconventional’ activity at that time. In 1963 Luciano established Lamacart in its present form, who structured and organised it into a modern context, offering itself to the public and private markets as an efficient, reliable and competent partner in paper recovery.
In 1990s Thomas Nicolis joined the Company. He is the current president and a dynamic member of the third generation of businessmen. His task was to guide Lamacart even further towards technological innovation, process rationalisation and, above all, to constantly project itself towards the “globalized” markets with a strong attention to the environment.
A Strategic Partner- Collection & Recovery
Lamacart’s headquarters is in Villafranca di Verona, an important crossroads of strategic infrastructures for the whole territory. Villafranca is located within the area close to Brenner axis, that connects the north-east and northwest of the country. A strategic geographical position between two European corridors, provided with a unique network of services.
In the Provinces of Verona, Vicenza, Padua and Rome are located the main operating centers of Lamacart Group with a surface of 130,000 sq. m. (50,000 sq. m. indoor).
In parallel with its core business, the company has developed solid partnerships with public and private Italian Associations and Institutions. Lamacart is a Strategic Partner in collection and recovery activities,
including the management of important projects linked to Circular Economy.
Leader in Italy, Lamacart has 5 company-owned structures and regular authorizations, issued by the provincial authorities in charge, including authorization for the brokerage of special non-hazardous waste. This allows an annual management of over 200,000 tons of nonhazardous special waste, over 500,000 tons of secondary raw materials for the paper industry.
Offerings
Over 50 company-owned vehicles authorized for the transport of special non-hazardous waste, registered in “Italian Register of Environmental Operators”, and also on behalf of third parties, for all types of materials, Lamacart supplies systems and equipment suitable for collection of wastes like metal baskets, containers, roll onoff compactors, semi-trailers, permanent presses, baling machines, conveyor belts, aspiration system, development of ad hoc solutions. Lamacart has a network of companyowned or leased platforms throughout the country to collect these materials.
The company supplies its services to all sectors with particular reference to recovery/disposal of materials; certified destruction of confidential and no-confidential materials (newspapers and magazines, books, accounting and data documents, gadgets, obsolete goods) by shredding and grinding. Lamacart extends these specialised separate collection of waste services to municipalities, public associations, factories, large-scale retail trade, the graphic and publishing sector, the paper and binding industry, credit and insurance institutions, to mention a few to demonstrate.
Nova Papyra
For over 20 years on the market, Nova Papyra has been a distributor and cutting center for paper and cardboard in the graphic-publishing, paper converting, packaging production, special papers, food and hygiene and health care sectors. Its Green soul has led the company to
Silvia Nicolis & Thomas Nicolis
specialize in the cutting and tailor- made service (sheet and reel products) according to the customer’s request.
The strength of the Lamacart Group is Circular Economy: Nova Papyra customers can in fact take advantage of Lamacart services, according to the highest regulatory standards and vice versa.
Their services include qualified advice, fast cut and delivery of tailor-made size material, taylor-made orders (starting from 300 kg up to full trucks), fast delivery times: 48-72 hours after the order for optimized size, 24 hours for standard size, delivery all around Italy, integrated logistics with producers, large immediate delivery products availability, format cutting and rewinding for third parties, storage, guillotination etc.
Paper and cardboard products are addressed to the graphic sector, paper industy, packaging sector, stock lots and occasional batches.
Recovery, a Shared Passion
Not everybody knows: Lamacart is the mother company of the Nicolis family’s many business endeavours. The family’s “passion for recovering things” also led to the creation of Museo Nicolis, the car, technical and mechanical museum in Villafranca with its 10 collections of vintage cars, motorbikes and bicycles, musical instruments, cameras, typewriters, small airplanes, a rare collection of 100 Formula 1 steering wheels and original works of human talent.
A “contagious” passion which lies at the very foundations of the family business – making it into an industrial activity – and the Museum’s, which was created by Luciano Nicolis, the entrepreneur passed away, to accompany his activity as a collector and culture sponsor.
The passion for recovery that Luciano’s children, Silvia and Thomas, share has led them to see, where others only see “scrap”, true mechanical gems that had the potential to be recovered, restored and brought back to their original splendour. In this way, and especially in the vintage car sector, a historical and cultural patrimony that otherwise might have been lost forever, has been returned to Italy.
Ten Collections and Hundreds of Unique Items
Opened in the year 2000, the Museo owing its foundation to the enormous passion of Luciano Nicolis, finds its ideal location in a 6000 m2 exhibition area. The totally accessible and ultra-modern building enhances the quality of the exhibits on display and contributes to surprising and involving the spectator. The Car, Technology and Mechanics Museum par excellence that conveys itself with extreme skill and delves its roots into technological excellence. Its masterpieces are divided into 10 different collections with the aim of creating an organic, professionally qualified and structured itinerary to satisfy the most demanding visitor. The wide range of the collection patrimony represents an exclusive reality: over 200 classic cars, 114 bicycles, 104 motorcycles; 500 cameras and movie cameras, 100 musical instruments and jukeboxes, 102 typewriters, aeroplanes and instruments, a military area with First World War and Second World War relics, models of cars, aeroplanes and trains. A rare collection of driving accessories that includes 106 steering wheels from sophisticated one-seater Formula 1 racing cars and turning steering wheels.
Innumerable works of human genius displayed according to anthological, historical and stylistic itineraries. A sprawling museum in which the public can discover man’s inventions and interpret them in every possible way.
“From Buffalo Bill’s telegraph to the De Lorean from ‘Back to the Future’. From the late 1800 velocipede to the first typewriter from the early 1900s. From the Queen of the Road Ferrari to the Master of the Skies aeroplane. And I could go on: the visitors amazement bows before the magnificent reality of Museo Nicolis. Here, the unique passion of the collector has gathered together, like the tiles in a rare mosaic, the “pieces” of a wonderful neverending story: that of mankind’s progress, captured in the most vital instants and instincts of its creativity. Because what Museo Nicolis wants, and manages, to be is the tangible proof of untiring evolution. And those who make this journey among the Nicolis halls and rooms, never tire of travelling on the path of the best memories.” Leo Turrini
The first Italian Company to receive the Papyrus Award
The passion for recovery is linked to the fame and prestige of Museo Nicolis and, as far as Lamacart is concerned, is the reason behind being awarded such prestigious recognition as the Papyrus Award, which the company received from the BIR - Bureau of International Recycling, an international association founded in 1948 that groups together all the most important companies operating in the recovery and recycling of iron and noniron metals, paper, fabric, plastic materials and rubber.
Lamacart is the first and only Italian Company to obtain this Award, proof of Italy’s excellence in the advanced industrial sector, a sector that is extremely competitive and becoming increasingly more globalised.
Forest Resources: Creating a Responsible & Sustainable World of Paper!
Commenced in the year 2015, Forest Resources has carved a niche in the global market as an indentor, exporter & importer of secondary fibers, packaging board, corrugated & craft guides, printing and publishing paper, and specialty paper. Forest Resources’ focus is on sourcing the right paper and boards with unmatched insight via marketing and technical support for end customers based in the Middle East, US, Africa, Indian subcontinent and Far East.
Since the last two years, the company’s emphasis has been on secondary fibres, specifically waste paper. Currently, Forest Resources’ annual numbers are 150,000 tonnes for secondary fibre and 40,000 tonnes for prime paper.
Mr. Abbas Jani, Founder of Forest Resources, has over 18 years of experience in the paper industry and partnership with Lamacart. As Mr. Thomas Nicolis, he keeps the same passion for sports cars, sports super bikes, high end watches, gadgets and latest technology. Mr. Abbas started his career in the local Indian market in 2005 selling packaging board and container board.
He moved into the international secondary fibre market in 2008. In the last two decades, he has built a robust network of European suppliers of secondary fibres to sell to buyers in the Indian subcontinent and Far East including China. He has a widespread network in paper mills in the Far East, stock lot traders in Europe and is adept at getting tailormade finance for end customers with insurance coverage.
Forest Resources is helping Lamacart to slowly and gradually expand operations in India by financing their operations. Currently Forest Resources in partnership with paper traders, is catering to more than 110 paper mills all across India- including regions like Mundra, Hazira, Vapi in west; Bangalore, Chennai, Tuticorin, Andhra in south; Haldia in Kolkata, Nagpur in the interior of Maharashtra. Lamacart has tied up with Forest Resources. Lamacart is financing for the business of the US and Middle East, wherein they are collaborating with new suppliers from these regions. Also, now they are selling the US & Middle East origin grades in India in the name of Lamacart.
Mr. Abbas Jani, Marketing & Trade Director & Founder of Forest Resources; Mr.Thomas Nicolis, CEO, Lamacart
ANDRITZ: Setting the Scene for Profitable Growth
Following an ANDRITZ rebuild in 2023, Huatai Paper’s mill in Dongying, Shandong Province, China, has the world’s largest mechanical pulping line for writing & printing paper production. The BCTMP line rebuild increased the 20 year-old line’s capacity from 100,000 TPA to 300,000 TPA, while at the same time reduced the line’s energy consumption per ton of pulp by a substantial 20 percent.
ANDRITZ worked in partnership with Shandong Huatai to achieve several goals through a number of unique solutions on this landmark project. The BCTMP line rebuild increased the 20 year-old line’s capacity from 100,000 TPA to 300,000 TPA while at the same time reducing the line’s energy consumption per ton of pulp by a substantial 20 percent. Pulp yield and quality also increased significantly, with shive content down from 0.3% before the upgrading to below 0.03%, with the lowest recorded being 0.01%, and brightness up from around 73% to more than 78%. Freeness, bulk and tensile index have all been beyond expectations.
The rebuild is part of Huatai Group’s 14-year plan to develop ecological forestry alongside profitable, environmentally friendly pulp- and papermaking. This includes raising
pulp production by one million tons per year within a new pulp and paper industrial park, to which the Shandong Huatai rebuild is a strong contributor. The rebuild project has been synchronized with the upgrade of the original newsprint line and supporting wastewater treatment plant.
“Since the startup of the rebuilt BCTMP line, the quality of the pulp has been quite outstanding, which has significantly reduced the proportion of imported chemimechanical pulp (CMP). This, in turn, has contributed strongly to reducing raw material costs and improving paper quality,” said Mr Li Jianqiang, General Manager, Dongying mill, Shandong Huatai Paper.
Understanding the Customer’s Needs
Vice Project Manager, Huatai Holding Limited, Mr Zheng Xingshan, adds: “The ANDRITZ on-site team understood our actual production needs very well, by having the newly
configured systems and equipment installed and commissioned before the shutdown, and then concentrating on the renovating and updating of equipment and systems after the shutdown.”
Mr Zheng elaborates on the project execution itself: “During the scheduled shutdown for upgrading, initially planned to last for three months, the actual project duration was only 69 days, from the shutdown of the old line to the startup of the upgraded line, including the dismantling of old equipment, reconstruction of foundations, installation, and commissioning of new equipment. ANDRITZ’s on-site supervision and commissioning experts worked proactively alongside our Huatai staff day and night, showing full commitment to the project. All were united in a shared goal of ensuring safety and quality, and achieving production efficiency as soon as possible. The celebration of completion was loud!”
The scope of supply included the
rebuild of two high-consistency (HC) refiners, plus screw presses, disc filters and screens, along with new equipment for other process stages.
Key new equipment and benefits comprise:
PrimeMSD Impressafiner
• Optimal removal of moisturebetter subsequent absorption of chemicals
• Maximized impregnation for energy savings in the highconsistency grinding stage
• Removal of extractives
• Maceration, partial delamination and homogenization
• Shive reduction after refining
TwinFlo LC refiner
• High operational reliability due to simple and robust mechanical design
• Low maintenance costs
• Easy and quick replacement of refiner discs
PrimeScreen X
• Top-feed stock inlet to minimize wear on rotor and basket
PrimeRotor and foils for increased efficiency and lower power consumption
“One of the highlights of this entire line’s upgrading is the refurbishment of the existing HC refiner, which is at the heart of the line, and the upgrading of the control system for the HC refining system,” according to Mr. Wang Yuwei, ANDRITZ Paper Service Division Manager.
The latest QUANTUM refiner plates have ensured a more even distribution of pulp in the refining zone, improving the refining efficiency. QUANTUM refiner plates feature a patented graduated geometry that perfectly models the changes to the fiber as refining energy is applied - coarse at the inlet and fine at the periphery. This pattern results in stable and consistent refining without pinch points, lower energy consumption for a desired fiber strength, and reduced shives.
The renewal of the HC refiner control system Hydraulic Commander, ANDRITZ’s state-of-the-art control
system, has also allowed the mill to have a more flexible and diversified selection of refining plates without limitations. The upgrade has reduced the need for special gap sensors, thereby lowering the cost of using refining plates. Moreover, the operation is simpler and more flexible, which minimizes downtime.
More than 60 Projects
ANDRITZ has the experience of more than 60 chemical/mechanical pulp projects, which has included previous collaborations with Huatai. “What impressed me deeply was the ANDRITZ team’s customer-first service and fearless and exploratory spirit. They put the customer first, maximize use of resources, and have saved us a significant amount of commissioning time,” says Mr Wei Lijun, General Manager, Huatai Holding Ltd..
So what is next for Shandong Huatai? Mr Wei hints at the future: “Under our integrated strategy of forest, pulp, and paper, I believe that there will be more and more opportunities for cooperation with ANDRTIZ. For instance, the 700,000-ton chemical pulp project we are currently promoting includes ANDRITZ technology. ANDRITZ’s continuous innovation in energy
saving, consumption reduction and digital technology will undoubtedly create more opportunities for cooperation between us.”
Accumulated Expertise
A final word from ANDRITZ Project Manager Ji Haihong: “ANDRITZ is honored to contribute its globally accumulated expertise in CMP technology to this project. We have provided Huatai with the optimal upgrade solution, encompassing a state-of-the-art process from chip washing to final pulp production, including significant new equipment for profitable production.
“When they faced problems, Huatai always proceeded with the principle of ‘results first’ to drive the project forward. This spirit greatly inspired the ANDRITZ team members, who, as always, followed the principle of ‘customer first’, and by timely increases in personnel allocation, adding shifts for commissioning staff, working overtime, optimizing the commissioning process management, actively engaging in feedback and communication, and quickly resolving unexpected issues. We significantly shortened the project timeline and secured precious time for Huatai.”
Valmet: At the Heart of TNPL’s Hardwood
Kraft Pulp Line
To secure fiber supply and the viability of their board machine at Mondipatti, Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited has integrated its mill with a pulp production line supplied by Valmet in 2022. Valmet’s Continuous Cooking G3 and TwinRoll press technology have ensured strong bleached hardwood kraft pulp, along with consistent supply of excellent pulp quality and yield for TNPL mill. The technology further reduced the consumption of energy, water and chemicals, leading to an overall decrease in environmental impact.
The Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited (TNPL) pulp and paper mill in Mondipatti, Trichy District, India has a modern paperboard machine making 2,00,000 TPA of multilayer paperboard. It began operating in 2016. Since the machine started up, it has been fully dependent on purchased pulp for papermaking fibers. With the pricing of purchased pulp often fluctuating and availability not always completely reliable, TNPL felt these risks were impacting the long-term outlook for the paper machine’s operation.
Driving Force behind Fiberline Investment
To secure both the fiber supply and the future viability of their board machine, TNPL started exploring the possibility of integrating the mill with pulp production. The idea was to take advantage of the highly organized clonal pulpwood plantations in more than 2,00,000 acres that the company had been developing over many years to help ensure its fiber supplies. With the backward integration, the company wanted to envisage the availability of fiber to the paperboard mill.
Valmet Chosen as Preferred Supplier
Startup and Challenges
The project was started when the Covid pandemic had set in. TNPL had 2 goals- one to commission the project with the limited resources from Valmet & TNPL, and second that the plant had to be operated for the project, which it had been intended for.
According to Mr. S. Nandagopal, General Manager (Projects) at TNPL, “The project execution took place
TNPL decided to install a modern bleached hardwood pulp line, and they selected Valmet’s Continuous Cooking G3 technology after a thorough techno-commercial evaluation of bids from global pulp and paper technology suppliers.
Based on our thorough evaluation, Valmet won the order because it
during two waves of Covid-19 in India. The pandemic meant travel restrictions were in effect during the start-up phase. The team needed to be creative to work around these difficulties.”
Using remote technology to access the mill’s DCS, Valmet’s Nordic team and their counterparts from both TNPL and Valmet’s team in India collaborated closely to achieve smooth start-up and commissioning.
Mr. Bhanu Prasad, Chief General Manager of the TNPL Board Plant,
was clear that their solutions met all the key objectives, including environmental compliance, technological competence, high energy cost-effectiveness and the greenest technologies, said late Mr. Seenivasan R, Executive Director (FAC) of Mill Operations at TNPL.
appreciated the overall cooperation extended by Valmet in achieving its objectives, both during and after the commissioning of the project. “Valmet gave us their full support during the project execution, even during the peaks of Covid-19, and all the deliveries were on time. Despite the travel restrictions on their overseas experts, Valmet empowered their local supervisors to support TNPL with remote support services so that the experts could also participate. Valmet’s overall project execution performance was excellent and very professional.”
S•T•U•D•Y
Pulp Line’s
Successful Commissioning
The plant was commissioned in January 2022 and within three months, which means in May 2022, TNPL was able to produce 410
Valmet
Continuous Cooking G3
As per Mr. S. Nandagopal, General Manager (Projects) at TNPL, the solution offered great benefits to TNPL such as strong bleached hardwood kraft pulp, along with consistent supply of excellent pulp quality and yield. The technology further reduced the consumption of energy, water and chemicals, leading to an overall decrease in environmental impact.
TNPL Praises
Valmet
Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited has expressed its immense satisfaction with the overall performance of Valmet’s Continuous Cooking G3 and TwinRoll press technology in achieving high quality pulp for use in its premium aura brand packaging board grades.
Mr. R. Kandhavel, Assistant General Manager for Instrumentation, TNPL, said, “We had a great experience working with Valmet for our 500 TPD project. We took up this project as a challenge. Since it was a major project, many separate layers and
tons. From the very next day of commissioning, TNPL got a good product from this pulp mill which was used for their Value- Added Products (VAP) of both paper & paperboard. The high-quality pulp was used to manufacture the mill’s premium paperboard grades. With full support from the highly-qualified and professional Valmet team, TNPL
Valmet’s state-of-the-art Continuous Cooking G3 has a separated impregnation vessel and a continuous digester, which gives very good yield, uniform pulp quality and less chemical and utility consumption. The main benefits of Valmet technology have been the compact layout and less carbon footprint leading to less greenhouse emissions.
The Kappa number variation is very low, which gives a consistent pulp quality ensuring that the brightness levels remain within the norms. Effluent generation is very less. Even though there is a
systems needed to be coordinated. The global and remote teams had regular interactions. We checked each and every logic block put in the project. For the first time, we implemented all our logic and algorithm in the controller (L2) level itself.
“This is the first project having advanced process control systems implemented in the DCS itself without any separate system to avoid any delay and for the fine tuning of operations. This is one of the unique features of the project. Optimization started on day one of the project commissioning. It was a very good experience to work together remotely on this project,
was able to stabilize the operations within two months. They footed an excellent technology, which helped the line to reach its expected maximum capacity within four months of the start-up. The high quality and quantity of pulp achieved in a very short time also met the board marketing rates.
shortage of manpower because Continuous Cooking G3 technology is new for TNPL, the wonderful support extended by the Valmet team has encouraged the people to get training at the earliest, said Mr. K. Thiruselvam, Deputy General Manager- Pulp & Recovery, TNPL.
Valmet Continuous Cooking G3 has a two vessel operation, which is an operations-friendly and energy efficient system. The TRP presses are also operation-friendly and maintenance free. There is the DNCG system, which benefits the company by reducing the odour.
and it’s remarkable how successful it has been,” he added.
According to Mr. Arulmozhidevan S., Assistant General Manager, Mechanical, TNPL, “All the gearboxes, drivers, digesters and pumps, particularly the screen housing, has been good. All the equipment is maintenance-free. Valmet itself means value to meet the customer.”
Mr. Mohan K., Assistant General Manager, TNPL, said, “As a team, TNPL and Valmet were able to commission the plant without any major electrical issues. I thank Valmet for all the support it extended to us during this crucial stage.”
Transforming Wastewater from Agro-based Paper Production into Sustainable Revenue
Paques’ BIOPAQ® ICX at Sainsons Paper Industries Private Limited in Northern India ensured a sustainable and profitable wastewater treatment process. The biogas generated is upgraded into Compressed Biogas (CBG) and supplied to nearby fuel stations as an alternative fuel for automotive and industrial use.
Project Highlights:
• 70 to 75% COD removal efficiency
• 3,000 kg/day CBG production
• Biomass sales for extra revenue
• 50% reduction in treatment costs per m³
• Full regulatory compliance
Sustainability Challenges in Kraft Paper Production
Producing kraft paper, particularly with a focus on recycled and agro-based inputs, presents significant sustainability challenges, especially concerning water loop recycling. In water-intensive processes like papermaking, limited freshwater usage creates a semi-closed-loop system, where water is reused multiple times. Over time, this leads to the accumulation of organic, inorganic, and recalcitrant pollutants, which are resistant to biodegradation. These contaminants contribute to rising Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels, discoloration, and unpleasant odors in the water, which can pose environmental and health risks if not adequately treated.
Additionally, insufficient wastewater treatment facilities often struggle to manage the large volumes of process water, resulting in partial discharges that may fail to meet environmental standards set by regulatory bodies like the Pollution Control Board (PCB). Odor management becomes a particularly pressing issue in such scenarios, as volatile compounds from untreated wastewater can impact nearby communities. Addressing these challenges requires innovative and efficient treatment solutions that ensure compliance while supporting sustainability goals.
Overcoming Pollution, Odor, and Compliance Issues in a Sustainable Way
Sainsons Papers primarily uses recycled fibers along with wheat and rice straws as raw materials, minimizing freshwater usage in their production process. However, this limited water input led to a concentrated water loop with high levels of organic, inorganic, and recalcitrant pollutants, resulting in elevated Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and a strong, unpleasant odor that posed health risks to surrounding areas. Compounding the challenge, the facility lacked adequate wastewater treatment capacity to process the entire volume of water generated, leading to partial discharge that failed to meet Pollution Control Board (PCB) regulations.
To address the challenges of wastewater treatment and compliance, Sainsons Papers opted for the implementation of the BIOPAQ® ICX reactor, complemented by engineering upgrades to their existing aerobic system. The BIOPAQ® ICX is a state-of-the-art anaerobic treatment solution designed to efficiently handle high concentrations of organic pollutants, making it ideal for the complex wastewater produced in kraft paper manufacturing.
Paques commissioned an 8.5 x 18.3-meter ICX reactor with a treatment capacity of up to 18,000 kg COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) per day and a hydraulic capacity of 4,500 m3/day. The system not only mitigates the buildup of pollutants but also converts them into biogas, which can be utilized as a renewable energy source, effectively addressing both the environmental and operational challenges faced by the paper mill.
The organic load to the aerobic post treatment system was reduced by a factor 3 due to implementation of the BIOPAQ® ICX reactor. This has resulted in a stable final treatment process that meets the discharge standards. On top of this, the treatment costs per cubic meter water treated have nearly halved due to the reduced energy consumption of the aerobic plant. As such, implementing the BIOPAQ®ICX reactor creates a profitable business case in itself.
Transforming Wastewater into Sustainable Energy and Revenue Streams with BIOPAQ®
ICX
With Paques technology, Sainsons Papers achieved the production of odorfree kraft paper while transforming wastewater treatment into a sustainable and profitable process. The biogas generated through the BIOPAQ® ICX reactor is upgraded into Compressed Biogas (CBG), which is supplied to nearby fuel stations under the SATAT (Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation) initiative.
Additionally, the reactor produces valuable granular biomass, which the company resells as a revenue-generating resource. The biogas can also be utilized in the mill’s boiler unit, significantly reducing energy costs. By implementing this solution, Sainsons Papers not only enhanced operational efficiency but also achieved full compliance with Pollution Control Board (PCB) regulations.
“Installing the BIOPAQ® ICX system has been a huge relief for our operations. We plan to upgrade the biogas into Compressed Biogas (CBG), a renewable fuel, as part of the government’s SATAT (Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation) initiative. We’ve already secured a 10-year LOI from Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) to supply the CBG. This project marks a significant step in our journey toward sustainable production.”
Hari Saini, Owner, Sainsons Paper India Pvt. Ltd.
Improving Productivity and Quality Through Emerging AI Technology
AI is transforming the pulp and paper industry by improving the efficiency, quality, and sustainability of operations. By integrating AI technologies into key areas such as process control, quality assurance, energy management, and supply chain optimization, manufacturers can drive productivity, reduce costs, and deliver superior products to customers. The ongoing adoption of AI holds the potential to further enhance operational excellence, enabling the industry to remain competitive in an increasingly demanding market. Considering the enormous benefits of application of AI , IPPTA organised the 60th AGM & seminar at Chandigarh on 28th February and 1st March-2025.
The Indian Pulp and Paper Technical Association (IPPTA) organized its 60th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Seminar on February 28 and March 1, 2025, at the Radisson Red in Chandigarh, Mohali.
Chief Guest on the occasion, Mr. Ashish Ranjan, Chief Digital Officer (CDO), National Engineering Industries Ltd. (NBC Bearings), inaugurated the seminar by lighting the lamp and delivering the inaugural address.
Mr. Pavan Khaitan, President, IPPTA, delivered the
presidential address, while the welcome address was given by Mr. Chirag Satia, Chairman –Programmer Committee & Director, Satia Industries Limited.
Mr. M.K. Goyal, Honorary Secretary General, IPPTA, gave an outline of the seminar, while the keynote address was delivered by Dr. Juergen Abraham, President, Voith Paper P&S Business, Digital Business Officer and Member of the Management Board of Voith Paper.
The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Mr. S.V.R. Krishnan, Vice President, IPPTA.
L to R: Mr. Pavan Khaitan, Mr. M.K. Goyal, Mr. Ashish Ranjan, Dr. Juergen Abraham, Mr. S.V.R. Krishnan, Mr. Chirag Satia
The first technical session of the event, on topic ‘Data Driven Decision Support Using AI,’ was chaired by Dr. Ashish Kumar Sharma, Director, CPPRI. During the session, Mr. Daniel B. Smith, Global Director, Instrumentation & Automation BTG – A Voith Company, apprised the audience about ‘A Next Step in Industrial Digitalization’.
Mr. Santhosh Kumar N from ABB Global Industries & Services Private Limited, spoke on ‘Data-Driven decision making in Paper Machines using Virtual Measurements’.
Mr. M.N. Reddy from Kuantum Papers Limited, impressed the audience with their knowledge about ‘Kuantum’s Leap in Paper Industry: Boosting Productivity and Quality with AI’.
This was followed by the second session, chaired by Mr. Sridhar Gopalan, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ANDRITZ, on ‘Boosting Productivity And Quality With AI’. Mr. Shankar Das from BTGA Voith Company, spoke about ‘Digitalization in Action: AI/ML Driven Decision Support in Pulp & Paper’. Mr. Rakesh Uniyal from Valmet Technologies Private Limited, talked in length about ‘Empowering Productivity and Quality in AI Era’.
Mr. Akhilesh Kumar and Mr. Sunandan Mallick from JK Paper Mills, Jaykaypur, informed the audience about ‘Prediction of real-time stiffness and moisture percent in Paper through AI’.
R: Mr. Saurabh Kolekar, Mr. R.B.Lakshmipathi Sakthi, Mr. K.Sakthivel, Mr. Ajay Gupta, Mr. Pavan Khaitan, Dr. Sankaraiah Sreeramula, Mr. Kannan Pattabiraman, Mr. Anurag Dhiman
The third technical session, on topic ‘AI-Based Strength Efficiency,’ was chaired by Mr. Ajay Gupta, CEO at Century Pulp and Paper Limited. During the session, Dr. Sankaraiah Sreeramula and Mr. Kannan Pattabiraman, Turilytix Private Limited Singapore, Optipid Consulting, India, spoke about ‘Leveraging BIG-AI for Proactive Sheet Break Prediction in Pulp and Paper Industries’.
Mr. Anurag Dhiman and Mr. Saurabh Kolekar from HABER, talked about ‘Application of AI-based Approach in Paper Making Process’. Mr. R.B.Lakshmipathi Sakthi and Mr. K.Sakthivel from Tamil Nadu Newsprint & Paper Limited (TNPL), apprised the gathering about ‘Harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) in TNPL Paper Conversion Process’.
The second day of the seminar began with a technical session on ‘AI-based Bleaching Efficiency,’ chaired by Mr. Sidhartha Mohanty, Head Manufacturing & Projects, ITC LTD, PSPD. During the session, Mr. D. Radhakrishnan from Seshasayee Paper & Boards Limited, spoke about ‘Case Study of AI-Driven Pulp Bleaching: Achieving Significant Reductions in Chemical Usage’.
Mr. M.Mahenthran and Mr. M.P.N. Balamurugan from TNPL, apprised the gathering about ‘Bleaching Process Chemical Optimization and Control in Chemical Bagasse Pulp Mill in TNPL’.
Mr. Alexis Métais, Xylem, France, gave informative views
L to R: Mr. M.N. Reddy, Mr. Santhosh Kumar N, Mr. Pavan Khaitan, Dr. Ashish Kumar Sharma, Mr. Daniel B. Smith
L to R: Mr. Akhilesh Kumar, Mr. Sunandan Mallick, Mr. Pavan Khaitan, Mr. Sridhar Gopalan, Mr. Rakesh Uniyal, Mr. Shankar Das
L to R: Mr. Alexis Métais, Mr. M.P.N. Balamurugan, Mr. M.Mahenthran, Mr. Sidhartha Mohanty, Mr. Pavan Khaitan, Mr. D. Radhakrishnan
L to
on ‘AI Enhanced Ozone Production for More Efficient Bleached Pulp Production’.
The highlight of the event was an all women’s panel discussion on ‘Innovation & Leadership,’ moderated by Ms. Priya Venkat, COO & Co-Founder, HABER, Pune. Panelists included Ms. Gunjan Bhardwaj, Director, AB Finiscope; Ms. Jyotsana Shrivastava, Senior VP-Sales Paper, Archroma India Private Limited; Ms. Kritika Tripathy, Co-Founder & CEO, Ecosure Pulpmolding Technologies Limited; Ms. Mahuya Chaturvedi, Marketing and Consumer Product Head, Century Pulp and Paper; Ms. Monika Koustubha, Product Manager- Paper Technologies, Buckman Asia Pacific; Ms. Ruchica G Kumar, Director, Ruchira Papers Limited; Ms. Saloni Sharma, Director, Saloni Paper Machines Private Limited; and Ms. Yashika Saxena, Technology Deployment Manager, Minerals Technologies India Private Limited.
L to R: Ms. Gunjan Bhardwaj, Ms. Jyotsana Shrivastava, Ms. Kritika Tripathy, Ms. Mahuya Chaturvedi, Ms. Priya Venkat, Mr. Pavan Khaitan, Ms. Monika Koustubha, Ms. Ruchica G Kumar, Saloni Paper, Ms. Yashika Saxena
Paper & Tissue Show 2025 Concludes with Strong Global Participation
The Paper & Tissue Show 2025 has successfully wrapped up, marking another milestone in the global paper, tissue, hygiene, and packaging industries. Held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), Abu Dhabi, UAE, the event welcomed thousands of professionals from 85 different countries, facilitating invaluable business connections, product showcases, and knowledge-sharing opportunities. The event experienced high-level industry engagement and global participation.
ITC Announces Acquisition of Century Pulp & Paper for INR 3,498 Crore
ITC Limited has announced the acquisition of Century Pulp & Paper for a consideration of INR 3,498 crores on a cash-free debt-free basis, payable on closing. The facility in North India complements the existing facilities of ITC in South India.
Apr01,2025
ITC Limited has entered into a Business Transfer Agreement (‘BTA’) with Aditya Birla Real Estate Limited for the acquisition of the companies’ pulp and paper business operated under the name of ‘Century Pulp and Paper’, along with the assets, liabilities, contracts, employees etc. as a going concern on a slump sale basis, as per the terms and conditions laid down in the BTA. According to the exchange filing, the acquisition aligns with the company’s strategy to drive the next phase of growth in its Paperboards and specialty papers business by expanding capacity at a new location, given the limited scope for expansion at the existing facilities.
Lumpsum consideration of up to INR 3,500 crores on a cash-free debt-free basis, payable on Closing, subject to adjustments in accordance with the terms and conditions set out in the BTA, the company said in the exchange filing.
The completion of the acquisition is subject to approval from (i) the Competition Commission of India; (ii) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India; and (iii) any other authority as may be necessary. The transaction is expected to be consummated in about 6 months, subject to receipt of statutory approvals and fulfilment of the conditions laid down in the BTA.
IPMA Raises Concerns Over Rising Imports of Paper
For the first time ever, the imports crossed the INR 10,000-crore mark within nine months, reaching INR 11,196 crore during the April-December 2024-25 period. Imports from China in volume terms registered an increase of 36 percent, while imports from ASEAN countries rose by 23 percent, said IPMA President Pawan Agarwal.
Mar17,2025
The Indian Paper Manufacturers Association (IPMA) has expressed serious concerns over the imports of paper and paperboard registering an all-time high of 1.76 million tonnes during the April-December 2024-25 period (20 percent rise in volume).
Citing the latest data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, IPMA President Pawan Agarwal said it was the first time that the imports crossed the INR 10,000-crore mark within nine months, reaching INR 11,196 crore during the April-December 2024-25 period.
The association further noted that imports from China in volume terms registered an increase of 36 percent, while imports from ASEAN countries rose by 23 percent.
Even when the country had sufficient capacity to produce almost all grades of paper, the steady rise in imports was burdening domestic manufacturers, while also putting the industry margins under severe strain, said Mr. Agarwal.
Another fact which needed immediate attention was the
suboptimal levels of capacity utilisation in the industry. This, when India was the fastest-growing paper market in the world, he added.
While the situation looked grim for the domestic manufacturers of all grades of paper, it was especially critical for virgin fibre paperboard, one of the growth drivers for the industry, which has tripled since 2020-21.
As per the IPMA chief, the price of these imports, especially from China and Indonesia, was significantly lower than the domestic production cost, and in many cases even lower than global pulp costs.
He warned that the rising number of imports would erode the commercial viability of Indian paper mills and further discourage investment by domestic industry. This may lead to the loss of employment opportunities, apart from depriving lakhs of farmers of their income from wood supply to paper mills.
Mr. Agarwal, who is also the Managing Director of Naini Papers Limited, sought immediate measures from the government to tackle the situation, including policy interventions, which would not only curb the predatory imports of paper and paperboard, but ensure a level-playing field for Indian manufacturers in the domestic market.
South India Paper Mills Applauds Advanced Technologies by Valmet
The installation of IntelliJet V Headbox, IntelliPress Linear with IntelliNip Shoe Press and Valmet IQ Scanner in SIPM’s PM6 facilitated excellence in paper production and brought down the final dryness after the press section in the machine to 53.88 percent.
Feb17,2025
South India Paper Mills (SIPM), leading manufacturer of paper, paperboard, cartons and corrugated boxes in Karnataka, has applauded the advanced technologies provided by Valmet for its containerboard machine (PM6), which not only improved paper quality, but reduced energy consumption and production costs.
The installation of IntelliJet V Headbox, IntelliPress Linear with IntelliNip Shoe Press and Valmet IQ Scanner in SIPM’s PM6 in 2020 facilitated excellence in paper production and brought down the final dryness after the press section in the machine to 53.88 percent.
According to Mr. Manish Patel, owner and Managing Director of SIPM, the company decided to make a large investment in PM6 in order to fulfil its commitment to innovation, quality improvement and sustainability in the container board conversion industry. The design speed of the machine is 800 m/ min, the reel width is 3,950 mm, and the basis weight range is 80-300 g/m2.
The decision further aimed at enabling the converters to produce corrugated boxes with a high-quality paper matching the global standards. SPIM decided to cooperate with Valmet because of the advanced technologies offered by the global technology solutions provider.
The IntelliJet V Headbox has been running very well on converting machines with low rejections and low losses to the converters. This has led to improved the productivity of the converter and energy efficiency, leading to cost savings. The
Valmet IQ scanner has efficiently controlled dilution in the headbox. These changes helped SPIM to produce paper with excellent profiles, providing opportunities for nicer graphics and printing.
“There’s a huge learning curve for our people, because many of these technologies are the latest, like the shoe presses and the headbox. Controlling these and effectively & consistently producing a product with good uptime is what we are targeting right now,“ he added.
International Paper Completes Acquisition of DS Smith worth USD 7.2
Billion
International Paper (IP) has completed the acquisition of DS Smith worth USD 7.2 billion. Under the terms of the acquisition, International Paper will issue approximately 179.8 million new shares of common stock.
Feb3,2025
International Paper and DS Smith, two of the leading producers of sustainable packaging, containerboard and pulp products, combined forces on January 31, 2025 to create a new global leader in sustainable packaging solutions. Combining the strengths and capabilities of our two businesses are poised to serve our customers better than ever. International Paper (IP) completed the acquisition of DS Smith worth USD 7.2 billion.
Under the terms of the acquisition, International Paper will issue approximately 179.8 million new shares of common stock. The company will be done by offering 0.1285 new shares for each DS Smith ordinary share.
The company primarily will list on the New York Stock Exchange and then on the London Stock Exchange. With this acquisition, IP will focus on the growing markets of North America and Europe, and will become a leading player in sustainable packaging solutions.
As per IP Chairman and CEO Andrew Silvernail, the combination of International Paper and DS Smith will create
the world’s leading sustainable packaging company. He said, “With a differentiated geographic footprint and an unparalleled suite of sustainable packaging products and services, we will accelerate growth, improve profitability and serve our customers even better.”
The combination brings together the best of both companies to accelerate growth, improve profitability and serve customers all over the world from operations in more than 30 countries.
Parason Opens New Manufacturing Plant in Brazil
With its new plant in Brazil, Parason aims to deliver faster, greener and more efficient machines to its global customers.
Jan17,2025
Parason has opened a new manufacturing plant in Brazil, marking a significant step towards its commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability in the pulp & paper industry.
The information was shared by the global manufacturer and supplier of high-quality pulp & paper machinery on a social networking platform.
As per a post on LinkedIn, with enhanced production capabilities in the pulp and paper industry and facilities in more than 70 countries, Parason intended to deliver faster, greener and more efficient machines to its global customers.
The leading supplier of paper mills said that it is known to inspire by pushing boundaries, innovating with cutting-edge technology, and implementing sustainable solutions to shape the future of the industry.
With a strong international presence from Europe to Brazil and the US to Asia, Parason offers unparalleled expertise and consulting services to support new paper mill configurations and improve the operations of existing ones.
Union Budget: IPMA Pins Hopes on MSMEs to Boost Demand for Paper & Packaging Materials
The policy incentives announced by the Government of India will encourage recycling, while the use of sustainable raw materials will further strengthen the paper industry’s commitment to a circular economy, said Mr. Pawan Agarwal, President of the Indian Paper Manufacturers Association (IPMA).
Feb7,2025
The Indian Paper Manufacturers Association (IPMA) has expressed optimism regarding the Union Budget 202526, highlighting its potential to boost demand for paper and packaging materials.
As per IPMA President Pawan Agarwal, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025, the Budget emphasized the growth of the MSME and manufacturing sectors, which was likely to have a positive impact on the pulp and paper industry.
Acknowledging the government’s sustained focus on economic expansion, Mr. Agarwal said the increased industrial activity would drive the demand for paper-based products across various sectors.
He further stressed on the paper’s role as a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic, noting that government policies promoting recycling and sustainable raw material usage
would reinforce the industry’s commitment to a circular economy.
Mr. Agarwal also urged the government to consider raising the basic customs duty (BCD) on imported paper and paperboard to support domestic manufacturers. He also highlighted the need to address challenges related to the availability of raw materials like wood and recovered paper to ensure a level playing field for Indian pulp and paper manufacturers.
MEPCO Lays Ground for Fifth Paper Production Line, Doubling its Production Capacity
MEPCO has laid the foundation stone for its fifth production line (PM5), as per a media report. The new PM5 line will increase MEPCO’s total production capacity from 425,000 tonnes to 875,000 tonnes annually.
Mar05,2025
The Middle East Paper Manufacturing and Production Corporation (MEPCO) has laid the foundation stone for its fifth production line (PM5). It is one of the largest kinds in the Middle East. The project will be supervised by a wholly owned subsidiary of MEPCO, Al Tadweer Al Akhdar Industrial Corporation.
The new PM5 line will increase MEPCO’s total production capacity from 425,000 tonnes to 875,000 tonnes annually, doubling its total capacity. It will produce high-quality and lightweight paper using energy-efficient technologies at lower operational expenses. The new line will convert an additional 500,000 tonnes of waste paper annually.
The facility will use recycled paper as its primary raw material.
With a total investment of approximately USD 47.4 million (SAR 1.78 billion), PM5 will have an annual capacity of 450,000 tonnes.
India Among 24 Nations Approved for EU Recycled Material Imports
Under the new EU Waste Shipment Regulation, EURIC, the voice of Europe’s recycling industries, welcomes the successful notification of 24 non-OECD countries to be approved as export destinations for EU recycled materials.
Feb26,2025
Under the new EU Waste Shipment Regulation, non-OECD countries had to notify the European Commission of their willingness to import non-hazardous EU materials until 21 February 2025, providing extensive data on environmentally sound management.
The European Commission has officially confirmed that the following countries that have successfully submitted their notification. These countries are: Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Egypt, El Salvador, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Moldova, Monaco, Morocco, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Ukraine and Vietnam.
According to CEPI data, there has been a 13% drop in paper production and a 7% decrease in recovered paper consumption in 2023. Europe is generating more recovered paper than it can process. With imports to Germany down sharply, exporting surplus material to the Far East has become essential. In 2023, India, as the primary destination, saw EU exports increased by over 50%, reaching 2.3 million tonnes.
EURIC, the voice of Europe’s recycling industries, welcomes the successful notification of 24 non-OECD countries to be approved as export destinations for EU recycled materials. The objective is to ensure that instead of exporting its waste problems, the EU contributes to the environment management of waste and better addresses the illegal trafficking of waste.
The first list of countries authorised to receive waste from the EU will be established by 21 November 2026. Exports of waste to non-OECD countries that are not included in the list will be prohibited from 21 May 2027.
Oji India Packaging Opens Fifth Facility in Andhra Pradesh
Oji India Packaging Private Limited has opened its fifth manufacturing facility at Sri City in Andhra Pradesh. The factory produces corrugated boxes and packaging accessories, offering eco-friendly and high-quality solutions to the country.
Mar24,2025
OjiIndia Packaging Private Limited, a subsidiary of Oji Group, inaugurated its fifth facility in the country at Sri City in Andhra Pradesh. The factory produces corrugated boxes and packaging accessories, offering eco-friendly and high-quality solutions for the local market.
Spanning across 43,000 square meters, the automated plant will cater to the rising demand for corrugated boxes in the region. With an initial workforce of 130, the company plans to expand to 300 people.
The inauguration was attended by Oji Holdings Corporation President and Group CEO Hiroyuki Isono, Consul General of Japan, Muneo Takahashi, and Sri City Founder and Managing Director Ravindra Sannareddy according to a company statement.
President Hiroyuki Isono emphasized on the plant’s role in advancing sustainable packaging and driving regional economic development.
The company has existing plants in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu.
Sonoco to Set Up USD 10 Million Global Capability Centre in Hyderabad
Sonoco is coming up with the first-ever global capability centre—Sonoco Performance Hub (SPH), which will be established in HITEC City, Hyderabad, near IKEA, with operations expected to commence by May this year. The first phase will entail an investment of USD 10 million.
Jan30,2025
US-based Sonoco Products Company is setting up its first-ever global capability centre (GCC)—Sonoco Performance Hub (SPH)—in Hyderabad, Telangana.
The global leader in high-value sustainable packaging solutions planned to invest up to USD 10 million in the first phase of this ambitious project. The centre will be established in HITEC City of Hyderabad, near IKEA,with operations expected to commence by May this year.
The company is expected to recruit around 300 engineers in the next 12-18 months and 500 techies by 2028.
The Hartsville-based company aimed to increase its technology and innovation capabilities with the Hyderabad SPH. He said the facility would be led by a Sonoco veteran of 23 years who is relocating from Pune to Hyderabad.
Mr. Rajeev Ankireddypalli, VP & CIO of Sonoco, told a leading newspaper that SPH Hyderabad GCC would focus on advanced technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), data analytics, predictive analytics and cybersecurity.
The decision to set up a GCC in Hyderabad was “not about cost arbitrage but about leveraging talent for transformative initiatives.
The digital infrastructure and exposure in India would enable Sonoco’s transformative initiatives naturally. The facility would prove to be a crucial step in Sonoco’s growth and digital evolution, he noted.
Mr. Ankireddypalli said Sonoco aimed to expand its capabilities as a true GCC with SPH Hyderabad, with its technology services focusing on process automation and innovation. The company further planned to make this facility a comprehensive capability centre for other business processes as well.
Voith Expands Sustainable Product Portfolio with SolarPress Green
Voith is the first supplier on the market to develop a press roll cover made from bio-based materials. With SolarPress Green, Voith offers bio-based polyurethane press roll cover with a hardness range of 5 to 20 PJ. The new press roll ensures optimal dewatering performance and high functional reliability, even under extreme operating conditions.
Feb27,2025
Voith has expanded its sustainable portfolio with another sustainable solution, SolarPress Green, along with SolarFlow Green and AiroGuide Tune Green sustainable solutions that sets new standards in the paper industry.
With SolarPress Green, Voith offers another bio-based polyurethane press roll cover with a hardness range of 5 to 20 PJ – while providing the same mechanical performance as the proven SolarPress roll cover.
Voith is the first supplier on the market to develop a press roll cover made from bio-based materials. The use of renewable materials significantly reduces the proportion of fossil-based raw materials in the product. At the same time, it ensures that the renewable raw material does not compete with food supplies.
The press roll cover is certified according to the internationally recognized DIN CERTCO for bio-based products. The cover combines all the advantages of the proven SolarPress technology while reducing the carbon footprint. This innovation is perfectly aligned with Voith’s longstanding commitment and goals of driving sustainability in papermaking and in its own production.
Dr. Christina Bauer, Global Product Manager of Press Roll Covers at Voith, said, ‘‘With SolarPress Green, we are reducing the use of fossil raw materials and actively contributing to resource-saving paper production – without compromising performance and efficiency. Together with our customers,
USA’s
we are setting new standards for a sustainable future in the paper industry.’’
The bio-based polyurethane press roll is made with specially developed material that ensures optimal dewatering performance and high functional reliability, even under extreme operating conditions. Thanks to its high chemical and abrasion resistance, the cover remains durable and reliable. The high stability of the bio-based polyurethane enables use under extreme nip conditions, which in turn enables high machine speeds, increased dry content and reduced energy consumption.
With an emphasis on the ‘Papermaking for Life’ program, Voith Paper is introducing a wide range of technologies and initiatives that will lead to more efficient and sustainable processes in paper production. The key focus is on the areas of water, energy and fiber savings; digitalization; innovations; and partnerships as levers for more sustainable production.
Irving Consumer Products to Invest USD 600 Million for Phase 3 Expansion
The USD 600 million investment will include a third ThruAir Drying papermaking machine, additional converting lines, and a new fully automated warehouse for Phase 3 expansion at Irving tissue mill in Macon, Georgia, USA.
Jan17,2025
Irving Consumer Products has ordered an Advantage ThruAir Drying Tissue Paper Machine from Valmet at their mill in Georgia, USA. The new installation will support Irving Consumer Products’ commitment to provide ultra-premium tissue paper products to the North American market. The startup is planned for 2027.
“I am very pleased to announce our Phase 3 expansion at Irving Tissue Macon. The USD 600 million investment will add another 100 jobs and include a third ThruAir Drying papermaking machine, additional converting lines, and a new fully automated warehouse. We are excited to once again partner with Valmet and its team on this important expansion and proud to continue to grow alongside them,” says Robert K. Irving, President of Irving Consumer Products.
Valmet will deliver a complete tissue paper production line, including stock preparation equipment. The new line will feature an Advantage ThruAir tissue paper machine equipped with an OptiFlo II TIS headbox, ThruAir Dryers, an air system, and an Advantage SoftReel reel.
The scope also includes mist and dust control systems, automation systems, basic mill engineering, Valmet Performance Center services, and services for installation and commission-
ing. Once operational, the production line will increase Irving Consumer Products’ annual tissue paper production capacity by 75,000 tons.
“Valmet and Irving Consumer Products have a successful history of cooperation, and we are very pleased to win their trust and support them in this important expansion project. It is a testament to the trust and excellent collaboration between Valmet and Irving Consumer Products. We look forward to delivering another successful project and achieving a smooth startup together,” says Soren Eriksson, Director of Sales, Tissue, North America, Valmet.
The order is included in Valmet’s orders received in the fourth quarter 2024. The value of the order will not be disclosed.
Haber Appoints Nilanjana Bhattacharyya as Vice PresidentGrowth & Customer Success
She will spearhead Haber’s expansion efforts in the pulp, paper, and packaging industry. A key focus will be on expanding the adoption of their AI-powered platforms - Kaiznn™ and Mt. Fuji®.
Feb26,2025
Haber, a leader in AI-driven process automation and specialty chemicals, has announced the appointment of Ms. Nilanjana Bhattacharyya as Vice President of Growth and Customer Success (Digital Products & Solutions).
With extensive experience in customer-centric solutions and industrial automation, Ms. Nilanjana will drive Haber’s expansion in the pulp, paper & packaging sector, ensuring seamless adoption of AI and IoT-driven process optimization.
She will spearhead Haber’s expansion efforts in the pulp, paper, and packaging industry. A key focus will be on expanding the adoption of Kaiznn™ and Mt. Fuji®, an AI-powered advanced planning and deckle optimization tool, helps mills minimize trim loss and maximize order fulfillment. Mt. Fuji®, an AI-integrated production and process intelligence platform, enhances efficiency, reliability, and performance in manufacturing operations.
Speaking about her new role, Ms. Nilanjana shared, ‘‘Haber
is revolutionizing industrial automation with AI, unlocking immense potential to drive efficiency, sustainability, and performance at scale. I am thrilled to be part of this journey, where innovation meets real-world impact. I look forward to collaborating with Haber’s dynamic, diverse, and energetic team to accelerate the adoption of intelligent automation and push the boundaries of what’s possible.’’
Parason Appoints Arvind Singhal as CEO of Pulp & Paper Division
As a new member of the Board of Directors and CEO of the Pulp & Paper Division, Mr. Arvind Singhal’s expertise and vision will play a pivotal role in the continued growth and success of Parason.
Feb10,2025
Parason, one of the largest global manufacturers and suppliers of pulp and paper machinery, has appointed Mr. Arvind Singhal as the CEO of its Pulp and Paper Division.
The company shared the information on a social networking platform. It said as a new member of the Board of Directors and CEO of the Pulp & Paper Division, Mr. Singhal’s expertise and vision will play a pivotal role in the continued growth and success of Parason.
With more than 30 years of experience, Mr. Singhal has a proven track record in driving growth, innovation and operational excellence. His leadership will help Parason achieve new heights in the pulp and paper industry while contributing to the Make in India vision.
Mr. Singhal’s impressive background includes an Executive
His strategic vision will guide Parason toward industry leadership and innovation.
Parason looks forward to having new beginnings and achieving greater milestones, added the post on LinkedIn.
Ms. Nilanjana Bhattacharyya, Vice President of Growth and Customer Success (Digital Products & Solutions), Haber
MBA from Kellogg, M.S. in Paper Science from Western Michigan, and a BEng in Chemical Engineering from IIT Roorkee.
Essity Unveils World’s First Tissue Paper Machine Operating Wholly on Geothermal Steam
The machine worth USD 1.16 million has reduced the annual CO2 emissions of Essity’s Kawerau plant in New Zealand by two-thirds (66 percent).
Mar19,2025
Essity has unveiled the world’s first tissue paper machine operating wholly on geothermal steam at its production facility in Kawerau, New Zealand.
As per the New-Zealand-based tissue paper manufacturer, the machine has reduced the annual CO2 emissions of the plant by two-thirds.
“We’ve invested USD 1.16 million (NZD 20 million) to upgrade our paper machine, which is the world’s only tissue paper machine using 100 percent geothermal steam drying in replacement of fossil fuels. This has enabled us to reduce the carbon footprint by 66 percent since 2009 at the Kawerau production facility, including a 25 percent reduction with our new technology upgrade. That’s the equivalent of removing 2,200 cars from the road annually,” said Managing Director Essity Australasia, Sid Takla.
Essity is the only tissue paper manufacturer in New Zealand
that makes paper onsite and converts it into finished products. The Kawerau Mill produces hygiene paper products used every day by New Zealanders, including Sorbent and Purex toilet tissue papers and Handee paper towels. The production of tissue paper from geothermal steam is part of Essity’s work to use less energy and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
International Paper Closes Containerboard Mill in US
The permanent closure of International Paper’s Red River containerboard mill in Louisiana by April 2025 is expected to reduce its annual containerboard capacity by approximately 800,000 tons.
Feb17,2025
International Paper, global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, has announced permanent closure of its four facilities in the United States, including the Red River containerboard mill, located in Campti, Louisiana.
Other facilities to cease operations by the end of April 2025 include a recycling plant in Phoenix, Arizona; a box plant in Hazleton, Pennsylvania; and a sheet feeder facility in St Louis, Missouri.
The Red River containerboard mill closure is expected to reduce the company’s annual production capacity for the containerboard by approximately 800,000 tons.
Mr. Tom Hamic, executive vice president and president, North American Packaging Solutions, International Paper, said the company was undergoing a transformational journey to become a stronger sustainable packaging solutions company. A critical step in this journey was to streamline IP’s footprint to
focus investments on facilities that will best serve customers and accelerate strategic initiatives to improve quality, reliability and service delivery.
In total, 495 hourly employees and 179 salaried employees will be affected. The company will work to minimize the impact on employees by using attrition, retirements and current vacancies at other International Paper locations, he added.
Valmet to Supply Off-Machine Coater to a Customer in Asia-Pacific
Valmet will supply a high-speed off-machine coater with automation and services to a customer in Asia-Pacific designed for coated special paper grades.
Jan21,2025
Valmet is to supply a high-speed off-machine coater with automation and services to a customer in Asia-Pacific. The coating machine is designed for coated special paper grades and will include Valmet’s latest curtain coating technology.
The delivery will include an off-machine coater with curtain coating technology, coating drying technology, a supply system for the coater, and a broke system. Automation solutions, Valmet Industrial Internet solutions, and spare parts packages support the delivery. In connection with the order of the machine, the technology selection was ensured with pilot tests at Valmet Paper Technology Center in Järvenpää, Finland.
The order is included in Valmet’s orders received of the fourth quarter 2024. The value of the order will not be disclosed.
“This order includes our state-of-the-art curtain coating and
air drying technology – its performance has been proven with successful pilot trials and references. The cooperation with the customer has been excellent, and our relationship was already on a very good level due to our earlier projects,” says Vesa Ahvenniemi, Senior Sales Manager, Board and Paper Mills, Paper business line, Valmet.
Nippon Paper Partners Project on Commercial Production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel from Woody Biomass
Nippon Paper Industries Company Limited, Sumitomo Corporation, Green Earth Institute Company Limited, Japan Airlines (JAL) and Airbus will work on commercial production and sale of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) made from bioethanol using domestic wood.
Mar18,2025
Nippon Paper Industries Company Limited, Sumitomo Corporation, Green Earth Institute Company Limited, Japan Airlines (JAL) and Airbus have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the commercial production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using bioethanol from woody biomass.
On February 3, 2023, Nippon Paper, Sumitomo Corporation and GEI announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on ‘Collaboration for the First Commercial Production of Cellulosic Bioethanol from Woody Biomass in Japan and Its Development into Bio-chemical Products’.
The companies constructed a semi-commercial plant at Nippon Paper’s Iwanuma Mill in Miyagi Prefecture to produce over 1,000 kL of bioethanol using GEI’s proprietary low-carbon, cost-efficient bioethanol production process on sustainable forest resources from the Tohoku region, such as wood scraps from sawmills.
(From left to right) Wood chips, pulp, fermentation culture liquid, “MORISORA” bioethanol
On February 17, 2025, Nippon Paper, Sumitomo Corporation and GEI reached an agreement to establish a joint venture company, Morisora Bio Refinery LLC, to focus on the production and sale of bioethanol and biochemicals derived from woody biomass. JAL and Airbus have also joined the project.
The five companies will work to enable a low-carbon society by reducing greenhouse gas emissions during raw material procurement and production. They will produce and sell domestic wood-based bioethanol, which not only has a low life cycle assessment (LCA), but is also compliant with the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
JAL aims to promote domestically produced SAF and has set a goal of replacing 10 percent of all onboard fuel with SAF by 2030. By connecting the SAF suppliers with stakeholders involved in production, JAL will advance the construction of a supply chain. Airbus will support the work to obtain the CORSIA certification for the domestic woody biomass of this project and contribute to the industry target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The five companies will mutually leverage their strengths to produce and promote domestic SAF made from bioethanol using domestic wood, aiming to create a decarbonized society and revitalize local communities through resource circulation and work towards a sustainable future.
UPM Communications to Close Paper Mill in Germany
After the permanent closure of UPM Communications Paper’s mill in Ettringen, Germany in July 2025, its annual capacity of uncoated mechanical paper will reduce by 270,000 tonnes.
Mar12,2025
In order to selectively align its paper capacity with profitable customer demand to ensure performance, UPM Communication Papers has decided to permanently close its paper mill in Ettringen, Germany, reducing the annual capacity of uncoated mechanical paper by 270,000 tonnes during July 2025.
Should the plans be implemented, the number of positions affected in Ettringen is estimated at 235. The participation process with the workers council will start immediately in line with local legislation.
“In a dynamically changing market that has been characterized by overcapacity for years, operational competitiveness is key to underpinning our long-term commitment to the still sizeable graphic paper markets and remaining the reliable partner our customers know us to be,” says Gunnar Eberhardt, Executive Vice President, UPM Communication Papers.
“We are continuing to selectively adjust our paper capacity to a profitable customer demand. This would ensure an efficient and flexible use of our remaining paper assets. While we see these planned changes to be necessary to safeguard our strong position and future, we are aware that the announcement demands much from our employees in Ettringen. We aim to handle the restructuring measures in a socially responsible way and will engage now into dialogue with employee representatives,” he adds.
In order to realize further benefits of a scalable and efficient Sourcing organization, UPM plans to discontinue the Central European Mill Support (CEMS) team and streamline its Mill Sourcing and RCP Sourcing teams according to new capacities.
“With the planned measures we improve cost efficiency and competitiveness, while ensuring a reliable supply from our production locations in Finland, Germany, the UK and the USA, ” says Antti Hermonen, Senior Vice President Operations, UPM Communication Papers.
Considering all planned changes announced by Communication Papers, there would be a total of 462 positions impacted, thereof 107 in Finland, 314 in Germany, 34 in the UK and 7 in the US.
Stora Enso Achieves 53 Percent Carbon Reduction in Scope 1&2 Emissions
Stora Enso achieved a 53 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by the end of 2024, surpassing the target of 50 percent reduction by 2030 from the 2019 base year.
Feb11,2025
In 2021, Stora Enso had set its ambition to align with the 1.5-degree scenario of the Paris Agreement with a target of absolute Scope 1 and 2 emission reduction by 50 percent by 2030 from the 2019 base year. The 53 percent reduction by the end of 2024 is mainly attributed to mitigation measures, such as fuel switches and improvements in energy efficiency, along with the impact from site closures. While Stora Enso acknowledges this progress, the Group’s target is to maintain this level until 2030 and explore opportunities to further improve.
“I am pleased to share this progress on our path towards net zero as part of our long-term commitment to sustainability. Through driving efficiency in the way we work, we are able to reduce our climate impact and support our customers achieve their climate ambitions,” says Hans Sohlström, President and CEO, Stora Enso.
Stora Enso’s science-based target also includes a 50 percent reduction in Scope 3 emissions by 2030 from the 2019 base year. “For Scope 3, which includes indirect emissions from our value chain, we are actively engaging and partnering with our suppliers and customers to pursue the same level of decarbonisation despite its greater complexities,” says Toby Croucher, Chief Sustainability Officer at Stora Enso.
Voith Paper Expands North American Facility
The largest and most recent expansion of Voith Paper in North America is expected to begin in mid-2025 and continue throughout the year. The project will result in a faster and more seamless service experience, expanding capacity and enhancing logistics processes.
Feb28,2025
Voith Paper is making a multi-million dollar investment to modernize and expand its roll service center at West Monroe, Louisiana.
As per Voith Paper, it is the company’s largest and most recent investment in North America, underscoring its firm commitment to the future of the paper industry and the evolving needs of customers.
The expansion is expected to begin in mid-2025 and will continue throughout the year. The facility will remain fully operational during this time. In addition to benefiting customers, this project is expected to positively impact regional economic growth.
The project will result in a faster and more seamless service experience, expand capacity and enhance logistics processes. The increased space will also provide additional training areas for employees.
“At Voith Paper, we are committed to the paper industry and meeting the needs of our customers. By investing in the West Monroe location and optimizing our internal processes, we will provide more efficient, reliable and timely support to paper producers in North America. This project underscores our long-term commitment to our customers, employees and the local community,” said Mr. Jeff Berg, Vice President Operations FRS NA at Voith Paper
Fedrigoni Acquires Stakes in Papkot- A Paper-Coating Technology Startup
Fedrigoni Group has acquired minority stakes in Papkot as a part of the corporate venture capital program launched by the company to identify prominent startups that are proven, and showcase industrial scalability.
Mar03,2025
The Fedrigoni Group, a global manufacturer of speciality papers for packaging and other creative applications, self-adhesive labels, graphic media for visual communication, has announced the acquisition of Papkot, a start-up which developed the first large-scale paper coating technology. The paper manufacturing company has acquired a minority stake in the startup.
Fedrigoni Group’s deal is part of a corporate venture capital program launched by the company to identify prominent startups that are proven and showcase industrial scalability. Fedrigoni will accelerate Papkot’s technology, ensuring that the company has access to high-performance, fully recyclable, and entirely biodegradable packaging solutions at scale.
Papkot coatings have been extensively validated across a wide range of paper substrates, including virgin and recycled fibers. Ongoing industrial trials are further expanding its compatibility to meet the diverse needs of converters and brand owners. From disposable packaging and wrapping for food purposes to fire-retardant or transparent paper to disposable cups, Papkot’s model is based on artificial intelligence and
machine learning to develop tailored solutions for customers, measure material performance, and make faster, data-driven innovations.
Marco Nespolo, CEO of the Fedrigoni Group, emphasized on the opportunity to acquire Papkot that will allow them to increasingly support their customers in their efforts to develop mono-material and fully recyclable packaging. Furthermore, Fedrigoni will play a key role in accelerating the industrialization phase, which is essential for the scalability of the Papkot business model.
Delfort and Henkel Present New Barrier Paper for TemperatureSensitive Foods
Delfort partnered with Henkel to introduce a thin barrier 302 specialty paper that ensures premium protection of temperature-sensitive food products. Having a low moisture vapour transmission rate of less than 10, the paper prevents moisture from penetrating the packaging, keeping the product fresh and protected.
Jan17,2025
Delfort, an Austria-based manufacturer of specialty paper, has introduced a thin barrier 302 specialty paper that ensures premium protection for ice cream, chocolates, candies and other temperature-sensitive items.
For this, Delfort partnered with Henkel, a German-based chemical company that deals in adhesives, sealants and functional coatings for industrial customers , to find the perfect cold seal coating solution.
With barrier properties including moisture, oxygen, aroma
and fat resistance, Delfort said brands have a reliable paper packaging solution that ensures products remain fresh and protected. Paired with compatible cold seal coatings, the paper provides protection against external elements, ensuring the taste, appearance and texture of foods.
Despite its lightweight design, the paper is strong, with flexcrack resistance that withstands the demands of handling and transportation.
Boasting a low moisture vapour transmission rate (MVTR) of less than 10, measured at 23°C and 85% humidity, the paper prevents moisture from penetrating the packaging. The low MVTR keeps products dry and maintains their texture and quality. This prevents freezer burn that can degrade texture and flavour, especially in items like ice cream bars. The specially designed barrier ensures that frozen foods do not become icy or dried-out over time.
With a low oxygen transmission rate (OTR) value of less than 30, the barrier paper restricts oxygen from entering the package. This is essential for products as it preserves the natural aroma of the product and maintains sensory experience.
Dr. Freddy E. Boscán, General Manager- PD innovation flexible coatings, Henkel, said, “Delfort’s barrier paper was optimally designed with a paper surface that makes it compatible with a range of cold seals from Henkel, each tailored for specific requirements of relevant flow pack structures. These cold seals promote circularity by being certified as recycling-compatible and enable sustainable packaging solutions that align with the industry’s shift towards a closed-loop economy.’’
Kemira Announces Capacity Expansion of Paper & Board Chemicals in Thailand
After the expansion, expected to be completed by August 2026, the total estimated annual capacity at Kemira’s Wellgrow site in Thailand will reach approximately 100,000 tons. It will serve the expanding Southeast Asian and Indian markets.
globally, and this investment will enhance our capabilities to provide cutting edge, sustainable chemical technology to serve our customers,” said Harri Eronen, EVP Packaging & Hygiene Solutions, Kemira.
The site’s operations are supported by Kemira’s global and regional expert teams with strong research and innovation capabilities.
Mar21,2025
Kemira, leading producer and supplier of pulp, paper and board chemicals in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) market, is making a multi-million Euro investment in multiple production line expansion of strength chemical agents for paper, board and tissue at its Wellgrow site in Thailand.
After the expansion, expected to be completed by August 2026, the total estimated annual capacity at the Wellgrow site will reach approximately 100,000 tons. It will serve the expanding Southeast Asian and Indian markets.
Strength agents are used for improving the mechanical properties of all kinds of paper and board products. Kemira is the global leader in sustainable chemical solutions for water-intensive industries. Its new advanced strength technology enables lower water usage, improved material efficiency and superior strength. The technology supports customers in achieving higher productivity while reducing environmental impact when replacing older technologies.
“To further strengthen our leading position in APAC, we are expanding our production in Thailand for future growth. The Asian pulp and paper market is growing among the fastest
Billerud Launches New Recyclable, Heat-Sealable Packaging Paper- ‘ConFlex HeatSeal’
Billerud has launched new heat-sealable paper- ‘ConFlex HeatSeal’ which is fossilfree, low-carbon and recyclable packaging solution, anticipated to expand into industrial and hygiene packaging applications.
Mar13,2025
Billerud has launched a new heat-sealable paper that is a fossil-free, low-carbon and recyclable alternative to plastic packaging without requiring major adjustments to existing machinery. The new innovation, ‘ConFlex HeatSeal,’ is designed to fit seamlessly into existing machinery and production lines with few adjustments.
The paper can be fully recycled in existing recycling systems, having scored 18 out of 20 points in testing conducted by the Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI). According to Billerud, ConFlex HeatSeal has already been used by a major Swedish furniture brand, and it is now anticipated to expand into industrial and hygiene packaging applications.
Robert Torstensson, Vice President, Business AreaPaper, Billerud, said, “With ConFlex HeatSeal, we offer a commercially viable, heat-sealable paper that supports businesses to transition away from plastic. It delivers strong sealing performance and recyclability within existing
paper recovery systems and works within slightly modified converting processes where Billerud provides transition support. It’s great to see how we live our purpose to make high performance packaging materials for a low carbon society through innovation.’’
With a lower carbon footprint, ConFlex offers a highperformance alternative for companies looking to replace plastic packaging while using their current machinery and maintaining efficiency.
Cardinal Tissue Acquires 2 Facilities of Softex Paper in US
Located in Rock Hill of South Carolina and Palatka of Florida, the two facilities of Softex Paper convert parent rolls of tissue paper into toilet paper, paper towels, napkins and facial tissue papers.
Feb18,2025
Cardinal Tissue LLC has acquired two US-based facilities of Softex Paper, which convert parent rolls of tissue paper into toilet papers, paper towels, napkins and facial tissue papers. The plants are located in Rock Hill of South Carolina and Palatka of Florida. As per Cardinal Tissue, the acquisition marks a significant milestone in its strategic growth plan and underscores the company’s commitment to expanding its manufacturing capabilities and enhancing its customer offerings.
The acquisition is the result of a collaborative partnership between Cardinal Tissue’s CEO and owner Vince Reese and Softex Paper’s CEO and owner Marcel Lieuw, who have worked closely together for the past two years. The two companies share a strong dedication to quality and innovation in the tissue paper industry, and this deal is poised to further strengthen both companies’ ability to serve customers with a broader range of products and services.
“We are excited to combine our resources with Softex Paper’s assets and teams to better serve our customers. This acquisition allows us to leverage Softex Paper’s established production facilities, while continuing to prioritize our commitment to sustainability, efficiency and high-quality products. Together, we’ll be able to deliver even more value to our customers and take our business to the next level,” said Mr. Reese.
