UPM Raflatac, a global provider of self-adhesive label materials, has announced the removal of Bisphenol-A (BPA) and Bisphenol-S (BPS) developers from all direct thermal laminate products manufactured in North America. This step aligns with growing regulatory requirements and the company’s commitment to sustainability and product safety. BPA and BPS, commonly used in the …
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At the recent Gulfood Manufacturing Food-Tech Summit, sustainability dominated discussions as packaging industry leaders gathered to explore innovative solutions that balance environmental responsibility with economic feasibility. Moderated by Ben Daniel, Chief Editor of Packaging MEA, the panel featured experts from packaging material producers, machine manufacturers, and converters. Together, they tackled pressing issues such as …
In the world of packaging, where innovation and sustainability drive change, Vaishali Malde has carved out an inspiring path. As Manager of Technical Sales and Sustainable Application Development at Packaging Industries Limited (PIL), Vaishali brings over nine years of experience to the forefront of flexible packaging. In this exclusive Packaging MEA interview, Usha …
ALPLA Group, a global leader in packaging and recycling, has acquired all shares of its joint venture with Taba, fully integrating the facility in 10th of Ramadan City, Egypt, into its operations. The site produces plastic bottles, preforms, and closures for markets across North Africa and the Middle East. Since 2024, it has also …
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Coca-Cola Al Ahlia Beverages Company, in partnership with Emerge—a joint venture between Masdar and EDF Group—has inaugurated a 1.8 MW solar power plant at its production facility in Al Ain. The project, unveiled during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, underscores the company’s commitment to renewable energy and aligns with the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030. …
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In Part 1 of “Is Plastic Fantastic?”, we examined the regulatory hurdles of plastic sustainability in the Middle East. Now, we explore the region’s growing adoption of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), driven by environmental concerns, shifting consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and technological advancements. As Middle Eastern businesses adapt to new packaging standards, rPET is …
Amazon has initiated a trial for bio-based delivery bags in Spain as part of its efforts to develop sustainable packaging solutions. The new bags, made from European-sourced vegetable materials like corn starch and vegetable oils, are being tested for Amazon Fresh orders in Valencia. Developed in collaboration with Italian company Novamont (part of Versalis, …
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ALPLA Group, the Austria-based global packaging and recycling company, recorded significant growth in 2024, reporting a 4% increase in turnover to €4.9 billion from the previous year’s €4.7 billion. The company also expanded its workforce to 24,350 employees across 200 locations in 46 countries, including 365 apprentices, underscoring its commitment to professional training. …
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The packaging industry faced major challenges in 2024, from escalating material costs and stringent sustainability mandates to soaring energy prices, supply chain disruptions, and growing awareness of circular economy and sustainable packaging demands. Despite these difficulties, the sector demonstrated resilience through innovation and collaboration. However, the journey is far from over. In 2025, new …
Continue reading “MENA: Forecast for the Packaging Industry in 2025”
NILE Recycling Company, based in Egypt, has signed a contract for the installation of a Starlinger recoS-STAR PET 165 recycling line, announced at Arabplast 2025 in Dubai. This cutting-edge technology aims to enhance the production of high-quality recycled PET, advancing sustainability and operational efficiency in the region. Mohamed Sa’adany, Co-Founder and CEO of …
