Packaging paper can replace SUP, experts say at IPPTA seminar
The packaging paper and paperboard segment of the paper industry is expected to experience double-digit growth in the next decade, driven by increasing demand for eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastic, according to Pawan Agarwal, the president of the Indian Paper Manufacturers Association (IPMA). Speaking at a seminar about "barrier coating of paper to replace single use plastic" in Delhi, Agarwal highlighted the sector's potential and the interest from major brands in shifting to paper packaging.
09 Jun 2025 | By Prabhat Prakash
Effective barrier coating of paper is crucial for expanding the usage of paper across multiple segments
"A lot of demand is coming from leading brand owners across FMCG, pharma, and F&B to switch from single-use plastic to paper packaging," Agarwal stated. He emphasised that while the domestic paper market stands at 23 million metric tonnes, packaging paper and board already account for 15 million metric tonnes, with an annual growth rate of 8-9% in recent years. Agarwal said that effective barrier coating of paper is crucial for expanding its usage across multiple segments.
Agarwal was speaking during a seminar, organised by the Indian Pulp & Paper Technical Association (IPPTA) at Vivanta, Dwarka, from 3 to 6 June, 2025, which was attended by 175 experts who discussed the future of paper packaging. Pavan Khaitan, the president of IPPTA, pointed out the global plastic waste problem, with approximately 240 million metric tons of plastic becoming waste annually. "Barrier-coated papers offer safe, functional, and sustainable packaging solutions being biodegradable and recyclable," Khaitan said, advocating for investment in sustainable materials to foster a circular economy.
Khaitan projected that the global market for barrier-coated papers would notch up USD 11 billion by 2030, with India expected to contribute nearly 10% of this demand. This growth is anticipated across sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce. SVR Krishnan, vice president of IPPTA, described barrier-coated paper as "a major leap in sustainable packaging" and emphasized the seminar's role in exploring technologies to reduce reliance on single-use plastic.
The need for cost-effective and environmentally friendly barrier coatings was a recurring theme. MK Goyal, secretary general of IPPTA, stressed the importance of collaboration between industry, research institutes, and policymakers. IPPTA aims to be at the forefront of these efforts by facilitating knowledge exchange and innovation in the paper industry.
The IPPTA seminar included a crash course which was specifically designed for professionals involved in producing or developing barrier-coated paper, highlighting the industry's commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability.
See All