ArabPlast 2025: Advancing Innovation and Sustainability in the Plastics Industry

At the 17th edition of ArabPlast, global industry leaders showcased cutting-edge innovations in plastics, recycling, and petrochemicals. As the official packaging media partner, Packaging MEA facilitated key discussions on the future of innovation and sustainability. Here’s an exclusive look at their insights, including an interview with Mr. Nadhal Mohamed, Director of Al Fajer Information & …

Huhtamaki Unveils Recyclable Single-Coated Paper Cups for Dairy Products

  Huhtamaki, a global leader in sustainable food packaging, has introduced ProDairy, a recyclable single-coated paper cup designed specifically for yogurt and dairy products. This innovative packaging solution addresses the growing demand for environmentally friendly packaging while maintaining the high-performance standards required for dairy products.     ProDairy cups contain less than 10% plastic, making …

UFlex Secures USFDA Approval for Recycled PE in Food Packaging

    UFlex Ltd. has become the first Indian company to receive approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) to use recycled polyethylene (rPE) in food packaging. This certification allows UFlex to incorporate post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials in food packaging, contributing to the global move toward sustainability.     The company’s recycling …

Cultural Packaging:  A Sweet Opportunity for Chocolate Brands

  In a striking encounter on Kazakhstan’s retail shelves, Doaa Bin Thabit, Contributing Editor at Packaging MEA, reveals how chocolate brands are leveraging cultural packaging to boost sales, preserve national identity, and create unique souvenirs, offering small manufacturers growth opportunities, particularly in the tourist market.         During a recent trip to Kazakhstan, …

Miraclon Partners with Kamboo Marketing to Expand Presence in South Africa

Miraclon has announced a new partnership with Kamboo Marketing, a leading South African provider of print and packaging equipment. As part of the agreement, Kamboo will serve as the distributor for Miraclon’s FLEXCEL Solutions and Shine LED Lamp Kits throughout South Africa, handling all marketing, sales, and technical support for the products. Jacques Human, Managing …

Proflex: Pioneering Innovation and Excellence in Prepress Solutions for Packaging Printers and Converters

Ben Daniel, Editor of Packaging MEA, speaks with Gilbert Bernard, Managing Director of Proflex Repro Services LLC, about the company’s evolution, technological advancements, and impact on the flexible packaging industry.       In 2015, Gilbert Bernard set out with a clear vision to launch a prepress and design business. However, his deep expertise in …

Is Plastic Fantastic? Part 3: rPET in MEA: Can Policy and Innovation close the loop?

  As demand for recycled PET (rPET) rises, the MEA region struggles to scale recycling due to contamination, infrastructure gaps, and economic barriers. However, policy support, industry collaboration, and innovation could enable a circular PET economy. Usha Benjamin, Sustainability Editor, Packaging MEA, explores the challenges and opportunities.     As sustainability has become an immediate …

WPO: Empowering Communities in the Middle East & Africa Through Reduced Food Waste

  With food waste a pressing global concern, WPO Vice President for Sustainability & Save Food, Nerida Kelton calls for international collaboration, particularly in the Middle East and Africa, to adopt innovative packaging solutions that combat food loss.       Food waste is a complex and often underestimated global issue when looking at sustainability …

UPM and Orkla Suomi Launch Paper Packaging for Panda Milk Chocolate in Pilot Program

      UPM Specialty Papers and Orkla Suomi have introduced a new paper wrapper for Panda Milk chocolate in a six-month pilot aimed at reducing plastic use. The new paper packaging, available in stores across Finland, replaces traditional polypropylene (PP) plastic wrappers. Arja Laitinen, Packaging Developer at Orkla Snacks, emphasized the importance of sustainability, …

IPP Leverages Gen Alpha Technology to Transform Gravure Printing in Flexible Packaging

      Integrated Plastics Packaging (IPP) harnesses  Gen Alpha Technology sets a new benchmark in gravure printing, combining precision and sustainability to elevate branding in the food, pharmaceutical, and FMCG sectors. This cutting-edge innovation ensures exceptional color accuracy and consistency, redefining flexible packaging standards.     Gravure printing remains a leading solution in the …