UAE paper and packaging industry is the fastest in terms of growth in the Mena region, reaching a market valued at $ 2.3 billion and will maintain an annual growth rate of 5 per cent till 2019, said a report.

In the light of the rapid growth of paper and paper related products’ market in the Mena region, Paper Arabia 2016, the 9th edition of the international exhibition for paper, tissue and converting industry will take place from December 13 to 15 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition centre, DWTC.

“The exhibition is a unique platform and this edition brings together manufacturers, buyers and traders from 30 countries .Strong presence of participants representing Europe, a Canadian engineering and manufacturing company and Morocco as well. Also exhibiting are the renowned Saudi Paper Group from KSA and Fine Hygienic Paper FZE, UAE,” said Satish Khanna, general manager of Al Fajer Information and Services, the show’s organisers.

“Paper Arabia 2015 witnessed the attendance of more than 8,500 trade visitors from 60 countries, concluding deals that reached more than AED 800 million and our expectations are higher for the 2016 edition. In addition to the tissue industry, the focus will be on the corrugated and carton industry, with new technologies and trends and the latest machinery which will be on display,” added Lamyae Zafati, exhibition manager.

The focus in the UAE is a sustainable future and one will witness that the paper industry is already adopting greener and smarter solutions to allow the use of sustainable paper and environmental friendly packaging.

China which remains the world’s largest retail consumer tissue and disposable hygiene market is very significant at the event.

According to Euromonitor, the population growth in UAE remains a major factor influencing sales of tissue and hygiene products. Other factors include the increasing number of retail outlets and malls and shopping centres across the country.

The market is set to continue witnessing the introduction of new products and innovations, especially from the leading multinational brands. This event is an opportunity for local and global providers and buyers to find out about the latest industry trends, sources, to negotiate and strike deals. – TradeArabia News Service