Paper and Packaging in India
Where the Fibre Comes From
Indian mills use farm-grown wood, agri-residue and recycled waste paper, and imported pulp, so supply of fibre is central to costs.
A paper mill’s biggest question is where it will get its fibre.
Farm forestry
Mills work with farmers who grow fast-growing trees such as eucalyptus and subabul, giving farmers a cash crop and mills a steady supply.
Agricultural residue
Sugarcane bagasse, wheat straw and rice straw can be turned into pulp, which also gives farmers extra income.
Recycled paper
Waste paper is collected by kabadiwalas and traders, then sorted and sold to mills. Much packaging paper is made mostly from recycled fibre.
Imported pulp and waste paper
Mills import some of both, so global prices and exchange rates matter.
Old newspapers and cartons collected door to door end up as new packaging paper.
They are a vital link in the recycled paper supply.
- Farm forestry supplies wood.
- Residue like bagasse can become pulp.
- Recycled paper is a major input.
- Import prices affect costs.
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