India’s paper industry continues to experience robust growth, with the Writing & Printing (W&P) paper segment expanding at a steady rate of 3% in the 2023-24 fiscal year. Within this segment, copier paper has emerged as a leading category, achieving a notable 4.5% increase in demand. W&P paper accounts for approximately one-fourth of the total domestic paper, paperboard, and newsprint market, which stands at 23 million metric tonnes.
The overall demand for paper in India is growing at an annual rate of 6-7%, positioning the country as one of the fastest-growing paper markets globally. This growth is driven by several factors, including the increasing demand for quality packaging in sectors such as FMCG, textiles, and pharmaceuticals, the expansion of e-commerce, and rising healthcare expenditures. Additionally, the ban on single-use plastics has bolstered the demand for paper-based packaging solutions, offering an environmentally friendly alternative.
The packaging paper and paperboard market, in particular, is experiencing significant expansion, growing at an annual rate of 8.2%. This segment currently accounts for about 65% of India’s total paper, paperboard, and newsprint market.
Despite the challenges posed by rising raw material costs and the need for sustainable practices, the Indian paper industry remains resilient. The steady growth in the W&P paper segment, especially in copier paper, underscores the sector’s adaptability and its capacity to meet the evolving demands of both domestic and international markets.
