• The transition to digital media is an ever-looming threat to the graphic paper segment which has been suffering declines over the past few years. Paperless communication, increased use of email, less print advertising, more electronic billing and fewer catalogs has taken a toll on graphic paper demand. Consequently, the industry is resorting to machine conversions into packaging and specialty papers.
   
• The paper and related products industry will be spurred by packaging demand, going forward. The global paper & paperboard packaging market, which was at $175 billion in 2017, is expected to reach $267 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 4.8%. Growing consumer awareness regarding sustainable packaging, preference over plastic, skyrocketing e-commerce activities and increasing demand for hygiene products are some of the factors favoring market growth. Moreover, improving disposable incomes of people, especially in the developing countries is one of the primary catalysts.
   
• Apart from high raw material costs, the industry has been affected by rising transportation costs, chemical costs and fuel costs lately. The companies in the industry are focused on cost reduction programs and are resorting to digital manufacturing in order to reduce costs further. The paper industry has already begun to incorporate recycled content into its production methods. By maximizing recycling, the industry will be better able to support rising standards of living worldwide while implementing environmentally and economically sustainable production methods. Further, investment in breakthrough technologies will spur demand for high-quality paper products.

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