The Indian paper industry is experiencing several notable trends – focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, responsible sourcing of raw materials, and the adoption of cleaner production processes. There’s a growing demand for specialty papers driven by sectors such as packaging, where innovative and customized solutions are required. The industry is also witnessing a spike in the consumption of fine paper spurred by eCommerce.
According to Anshul Tiwari, marketing and communications manager at Sona Papers, a Delhi-based paper provider, the Indian paper industry is adapting to global trends — balancing traditional paper production with emerging technologies and sustainability considerations to meet the evolving demands of the market. Based in Okhla in New Delhi, the company operates through a network of branches across locations in India and abroad. Its presence extends to cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Dubai and Riyadh.
The Indian paper industry is subject to various regulatory issues, including environmental regulations, forest and biodiversity conservation laws, and waste management policies. “Compliance with emission standards and sustainable sourcing of raw materials, particularly wood pulp, are crucial aspects regulated by environmental authorities,” said Tiwari.
Forest regulations govern the procurement of wood pulp for paper production, ensuring sustainable forestry practices, Tiwari said. “Additionally, waste disposal and recycling norms impact the industry’s environmental footprint. Taxation policies, import-export regulations, and trade agreements also influence the sector. Compliance with labor laws, safety standards, and quality regulations further shape the industry’s operations. Navigating these regulatory complexities requires constant monitoring and adaptation to ensure sustainable and legally compliant practices within the Indian paper industry. It’s essential for companies to stay informed about evolving regulations to maintain operational efficiency and market competitiveness and, hence, Sona Papers always keep itself updated with the latest industry rules and regulations.”
Sona Papers is dedicated to providing a diverse array of specialty papers to meet the distinctive needs of various market segments. In the Indian packaging industry, the company offers specialty papers tailored for both luxury and sustainable packaging solutions. Tiwari adds, “We excel in supplying papers designed for high-quality printing and publishing applications, ensuring top-notch results. Our specialized papers cater to the demands of corporate communication materials, invitations, and other creative applications. Furthermore, we play a vital role in the textile and apparel Industry by providing papers specifically crafted for packaging and labeling purposes, contributing to the overall aesthetic and functionality of textile and apparel products.”
In the words of Sanjay Suneja, managing director, Sona Papers, the fine paper industry is poised to maintain its steadfast commitment to sustainability, with a growing emphasis on eco-friendly and responsibly sourced materials.
“The trend encompasses a notable surge in the demand for recycled material and the adoption of sustainable production practices. Specialty papers, particularly those utilized in luxury packaging, labels, and creative applications, have experienced a noteworthy spike in consumption and are anticipated to witness further growth. The global market dynamics play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the fine paper industry, as changes in global trade patterns, economic conditions, and geopolitical factors can bring forth considerable influence on its direction,” Suneja said.
