Paperex scheduled from December 3 to December 6, 2025 is organized by Informa Markets in India in collaboration with IARPMA and supported by the World Paper Forum. Leading industry players including JK Paper, Bindals Paper, TNPL, Trident Group, Andhra Paper, Orient Paper and West Coast Paper participated.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries including Mr. Pavan Khaitan, President, Indian Pulp & Paper Technical Association (IPPTA), Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, Hon'ble Union Minister of State for Power & Minister of State for the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India.
Shripad Yesso Naik, Union Minister of State for Power & Minister of State for the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India, said “With demand rising 7–8% annually and production capacity expected to expand from 24 million tonnes to 32 million tonnes by 2030, the sector continues to play a vital role in rural employment, MSME development, packaging, education and social progress. Its shift toward renewable energy, reduced fossil-fuel dependence and long-term carbon-neutrality strategies further strengthens India’s environmental leadership. As we work toward the vision of a developed India by 2047, innovation, digitalization, recycling and global collaboration will shape a competitive and self-reliant industrial ecosystem. This conference will undoubtedly open new pathways for knowledge, cooperation, technology advancement and sustainable growth.”
“The Indian paper sector comprises nearly 800 mills and has a strong rural footprint linking farmers, local communities and an extensive labor base of nearly 5,000 direct and indirect workers per mill, the industry plays a critical role in rural livelihoods and employment generation.” said Mr. Pramod Agarwal, President, Indian Agro & Recycled Paper Mills Association.
Agarwal said, “As India continues to face a fibre shortage, agroforestry-based production using agricultural residues such as bagasse, sarkanda, wheat straw and rice straw has become essential. Instead of crop burning, farmers are encouraged to supply this biomass, creating both environmental and economic benefits.”
However, domestic waste paper collection remains limited to nearly 50%, far below levels seen in developed economies where recovery rates reach 90%. This gap compels the industry to import close to 10 million tonnes of waste paper annually. Strengthening fibre collection, reducing import dependence and fostering enabling policy support are vital for the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the Indian paper industry.” Agarwal said while speaking at the 17th Edition of Paperex 2025 in Yashobhoomi (IICC).
Adding to the occasion were presidents of leading paper associations and high-level dignitaries, including Mr. Pawan Agarwal, President, Indian Paper Manufacturers Association; Mr. Rahul Khanna, President, Indian Newsprint Manufacturers Association; Mr. Pramod Agarwal, President, Indian Agro & Recycled Paper Mills Association; Mr. Peter Hall, President, IMEA, Informa Markets; and Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India.
Pawan Agarwal, President, Indian Paper Manufacturers Association, said, “The paper industry today utilizes nearly 25% to 50% bamboo in its total wood-pulp mix, a significant rise enabled by the Union Government’s decision to deregulate bamboo transportation from the northeastern states. This policy shift has not only strengthened raw material availability for mills but also boosted the local economies of the region through enhanced bamboo supply. In parallel, the government’s move to allow farmers to freely grow and harvest designated tree species, many of which are used by paper mills, has encouraged sustainable agroforestry practices. These combined reforms have created a more reliable, farmer-inclusive and environmentally responsible raw material ecosystem for the paper sector.”
Mr. Rahul Khanna, President, Indian Newsprint Manufacturers Association, said “The global landscape for the paper industry has entered a phase of heightened unpredictability, where volatility has replaced the earlier cycle of good, average, and challenging periods. In the past six months alone, the industry has witnessed unprecedented fluctuations, intensified further by issues such as overseas dumping and rapidly shifting market dynamics. Sustaining the sector in this environment requires continued advocacy, strong policy support and a collective focus on long-term resilience. Encouragingly, the industry is responding with significant technological advancement and a growing influx of young professionals, an essential shift for driving innovation and future-readiness. As conditions evolve, embracing cutting-edge technology and nurturing new talent will remain central to navigating this new normal.”
progress. These platforms bring global advancements and sustainable solutions to the forefront while enabling business opportunities, joint ventures and technology transfer that collectively shape the next chapter of India's paper industry." he added.