Chandpur Paper Plans To Triple Production Capacity In Next 5 Yrs To Meet Rising Demand

MG (Machine Glazed) Paper is transforming India's FMCG and retail sectors, with the paper packaging market projected to hit $25 billion by 2027 and demand growing at 6-7 per cent CAGR. As brands embrace sustainable packaging, Amit Mittal, MD & CEO of Chandpur Paper discusses key trends, challenges, and opportunities.

Committed to ethical business practices, he built Chandpur Paper at Chandpur in Bijnor district of Uttar Pradesh into a trusted B2B supplier for FMCG brands. With a vision to triple capacity in five years, his journey exemplifies how innovation, sustainability, and integrity drive long-term growth and industry leadership.

Mittal told Bizz Buzz in an exclusive interview that the company transformed challenges into success through innovation and strategic leadership. Starting in 1998 with no prior paper industry experience, he is credited with scaling up production from 600 to 3500 metric tons monthly. Investing in advanced German and Italian machinery, he revolutionized waste-paper-based manufacturing

How do you see the demand for MG Paper evolving in India's FMCG and retail sectors?

Demand for Machine Glazed (MG) paper in India's FMCG and retail industries is expanding very fast, owing to rising eco-consciousness, sustainability aspirations, and regulatory constraints against plastic packaging. Additionally, MG paper is gaining popularity due to its smooth texture, durability, and outstanding printability, making it a viable alternative to plastic.

With the paper packaging industry expected to grow at a 6-7 per cent CAGR, the shift towards eco-friendly solutions is accelerating, especially with the expansion of e-commerce and online retail. Governmental regulations like the Plastic Waste Management Orders and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) are further pushing brands to adopt sustainable packaging. As consumer preferences continue to evolve towards greener alternatives.

With the Indian paper packaging market expected to reach $25 billion by 2027, how is Chandpur Paper positioning itself to meet this growing demand?

Chandpur Paper is continuously expanding its production capacity and investing in advanced technologies to meet the growing demand for Machine Glazed (MG) paper while strengthening its supply chain. The company is also heavily investing in R&D to develop high-quality MG paper with superior moisture resistance, printability, and durability.

To reach a broader audience, Chandpur Paper is expanding its distribution network and forging strategic partnerships with brands seeking customized MG paper solutions aligned with sustainability goals. Additionally, the company is scaling up manufacturing operations to ensure an uninterrupted supply, reinforcing its position as a leading MG paper manufacturer. Through continuous innovation and a strong commitment to sustainability, Chandpur Paper aims to shape the future of eco-friendly packaging solutions in the market.

What are the key factors driving the shift from plastic to MG Paper in the retail and FMCG industries?

The transition from plastic to Machine Glazed paper in India's retail and FMCG industries is driven by multiple factors, primarily regulatory reforms and sustainability commitments. Government-imposed bans on single-use plastics and stricter plastic waste management regulations are accelerating the shift towards eco-friendly alternatives. Brands are increasingly committing to plastic-free packaging, adopting MG Paper for its recyclability, sustainability, and compliance with environmental goals. Additionally, MG Paper offers a smooth and high-quality printing surface, enhancing brand visibility and consumer appeal. As businesses prioritize sustainable packaging solutions, MG Paper continues to emerge as a preferred alternative, balancing functionality with environmental responsibility.

How does Chandpur Paper incorporate sustainability into its MG Paper production?

Chandpur Paper places sustainability as its topmost priority by introducing environment-friendly practices in the production process. This commitment starts with FSC-certified raw material sourcing, ensuring accountable forestry practices. The use of eco-friendly chemicals and water-based coatings minimizes the harmful impact on nature. Chandpur Paper is actively investing in reducing carbon footprints by optimizing energy consumption and adopting renewable sources.

Additionally, water conservation practices are being adopted with the implementation of wastewater treatments and recycling systems. Practicing all these initiatives helps Chandpur Paper produce sustainable MG Paper while adhering to global standard practices.

What steps is the company taking to improve the recyclability and biodegradability of MG Paper?

Chandpur Paper has been exploring advanced recycling and biodegradable practices to incorporate into their MG Paper production. The company is working on a plastic-free coating process that will provide water resistance to the paper. To boost recyclability, we have been modifying the fibre recovery method; this will help to make the papers recyclable without sacrificing strength. We are also cooperating with research institutes to help us design compostable and decomposable paper solutions. Furthermore, the company is committed to educating customers on a variety of topics, including correct disposal and even recycling procedures, to ensure that MG Paper is properly utilized. We want to set new industry standards for environmentally friendly paper packaging.

Are there any recent innovations or product developments in MG Paper that you are particularly excited about?

Yeah, we are excited to introduce new development strategies, like high-barrier MG paper that is resistant to moisture and grease without a plastic coating. MG Paper is now being tailored with superior printing capabilities for vibrant and long-lasting branding. Furthermore, to promote sustainability, organic layering is being employed to create bio-coated MG paper that retains its protective characteristics. Finally, the lightweight MG Paper assures cost-efficiency and lowers raw material costs, contributing to more environmentally friendly packaging options. These advances will enable businesses to transition to high-efficiency, sustainable alternatives.

What are the biggest challenges facing MG Paper manufacturers in India today?

Though there have been many innovations that led to the growth of the MG Paper industry, manufacturers face underlying challenges that they have to overcome. Some key challenges include raw material price volatility due to fluctuation in pulp and chemical costs; these impact production expenses. Supply chain disruptions include issues related to logistics and procurement that affects the timely production and distribution of the MG Paper. Further, imported papers are often offered at lower prices, creating price pressure on the domestic in-house manufacturers. Continuous efforts are being made to educate consumers about the benefits of MG Paper over plastic packaging. Despite all these challenges, Chandpur Paper continues to overcome and address these issues with innovations and strategic collaborations to maintain its competitive edge.

How is Chandpur Paper navigating supply chain disruptions, raw material costs, and changing regulations in the paper industry?

Chandpur Paper is overcoming various challenges with multi-faceted approaches. To mitigate the supply chain and optimize production, we have been diversifying the sourcing of raw materials from our end. The company is also engrossed with policymakers to stay ahead of regulatory challenges and make sure we stick to compliance. We have been building strong

supply chain and logistic relations to guarantee steady and optimized material availability while investing in new technologies to improve production efficiency. Focusing on these key areas, we have maintained resilience and are more adaptable to industry disruptions.

Does Chandpur Paper have any expansion plans, new product lines, or investments in technology for MG Paper production?

With the rising demands of MG Paper, Chandpur Paper plans to increase its production capacity. With that, we are also investing in cutting-edge technologies to enhance the quality and efficiency of paper production. Chandpur also intends to develop high-quality MG paper with properties like heat resistance and antimicrobial coatings. Lastly, we plan to strengthen our R&D capacity to introduce next-generation sustainable packaging solutions.

How do you see MG Paper evolving over the next 5-10 years, and what role will Chandpur Paper play in shaping its future?

By the next decade, MG Paper will see widespread use, backed by several key factors. With strict environmental regulations to promote the use of paper packaging over plastic, continuous innovations will be made to make MG Paper more functional and cost-effective. Further, Chandpur Paper is positioned to drive growth with innovation, expanding production, and fostering industry collaboration to shape the future of sustainable packaging on a global scale.