Paper industry to continue to prosper as country grows economically: Piyush Goyal

01 January 2024: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and Textiles, Piyush Goyal said that paper industry will continue to prosper as country grows economically. While addressing 62nd Annual General Meeting of Federation of Paper Traders Associations in India (FPTA) in New Delhi, he said that the recyclable and sustainable nature of paper makes it a vital component of the circular economy.

Recognizing the significance of the paper industry, Goyal highlighted its integral role as a carrier of knowledge, history, literature, and an essential medium in everyday life. He noted that in the digital era, paper continues to hold a prominent position, offering accessibility and serving multifaceted purposes including communication, branding, packaging and much more.

He further said that the Government is doing more for the world of business and expanding the economy. Underlining the need for competitive quality and service, the Minister outlined a strategic pathway for the industry, emphasizing the importance of integrated mills, economies of scale, and fostering innovation. He stressed sustainability as a crucial factor, encouraging the industry to focus on paper manufacturing from recycled materials and ensuring the ecological balance through responsible practices.

Piyush Goyal underscored the significance of ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in expanding domestic production capacity and urged for the development of new grades of paper to replace single-use plastics. He further highlighted the enormous potential for exports, particularly through innovative packaging solutions, urging collaboration with institutions like the Indian Institute of Packaging to produce sustainable and high-quality paper products.