Holding in Prague (Czech Republic) from September 2nd to 4th, the Prima and Specialty Papers conferences organized by Smithers attracted a large number of attendees. These days were punctuated by presentations and roundtable discussions, as well as more informal and convivial moments (Prima dinner, lunches, cocktails, exhibition tours, etc.). The companies and organizations that had the opportunity to speak were diverse, ranging from research and forecasting firms to organizations representing the European paper industry, including paper and board producers, suppliers, research organizations, and major brands. These include: Smithers, ResourceWise, Vision Hunters, Cepi, Amcor, Delfort, Gascogne Paper, Mondi, Prinzhorn, Saica, Sappi, Smurfit Westrock, UPM, Walki, Xampla, Valmet, Lactips, Fiberlean, CTP, PTS, VTT, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, Barilla, L'Oréal, Nestlé… 

Key topics of this edition include sustainable development, regulations (including the impact of PPWR or Extended Producer Responsibility), compliance, paperization (particularly thanks to bio-based barrier solutions), and the economic and geopolitical environment. In the context of the implementation of customs duties on products entering the United States, the issue of overcapacity in Asia (particularly China) was a key issue. In the corrugated case material sector (CCM) in particular, according to Resource Wise, current overcapacity in China alone is greater than that of all European overcapacity combined. This paves the way for intensified competition… 

Other strong messages: in an unclear and uncertain environment, the paper industry must speak with a single voice, continue to innovate and take risks. While avoiding constant comparisons to plastic, as paper has solid assets to offer due to its intrinsic qualities. The many examples given during these days illustrated this formidable capacity for adaptation and innovation. A special mention goes to SWM, which is launching into packaging with its new porous and heat-sealable paper produced at the Quimperlé plant in France, which has already won over Riccobono Packaging. 

According to Smithers, specialty paper remains a growth sector, with decor paper being the most dynamic and the fastest growing. Competition between carton board, corrugated board, and molded fiber is expected to intensify in the future, while microflute will also continue to grow. E-commerce will also continue to expand, albeit to a more limited extent. In this sector, corrugated board remains strong, and new formats are being developed (envelopes, molded fiber, etc.). Overall, over the next five years, global fiber-based packaging will create 38 Mt of new demand. Corrugated board will dominate by volume, while molded fiber will show the best growth. 

Valérie Lechiffre 

Photo/Valérie Lechiffre