As the global packaging industry shifts toward sustainability, a new venture is emerging with a focused mission to bridge the gap between demand and supply for eco-friendly, paper-based packaging. PrimeFiber Global Paper Solutions, founded by Zaheer Abbas, a seasoned veteran with over two decades of industry experience, is preparing to reshape the Indian and regional packaging markets through strategic global partnerships and a customer-first approach.

A focused beginning with a purpose

With its official launch now underway, PrimeFiber Global Paper Solutions has been developed with a clear and deliberate strategy. “We will be focusing only on the Specialized Packaging Paper and Paper Boards segment,” shares Zaheer Abbas with FoodTechBiz. “We are not venturing into the commodity side of the paper portfolio like graphic or printing paper. Our target is clear—to collaborate with brands and packaging companies to provide paper for sustainable packaging solutions.”

Unlike traditional paper dealers, PrimeFiber aims to serve as a solution provider, not just a supplier. “We don’t want to be seen as just another paper dealer matching supply and demand. We want to identify the gaps in the sustainable packaging market and work with mills worldwide to source or co-develop the right materials to fill those gaps,” Abbas adds.

Building global bridges

Though newly launched, PrimeFiber has already taken significant steps toward forming international collaborations. “We are in the final stage of discussions with a premium European paper mill to represent their packaging paper portfolio in India,” says Abbas. “Simultaneously, we are evaluating other paper and board manufacturers—mostly across Europe—to bring their product portfolios to India.”

These partnerships are about more than just market access; they are based on principles. Abbas clearly states that PrimeFiber will only partner with paper mills that are fully dedicated to sustainability. “Our partnerships will be exclusively with mills that offer sustainable solutions and hold the highest levels of sustainability credentials and relevant certifications. These include food safety standards that apply globally.”

Packaging that serves function and brand

Abbas also highlights a fundamental yet often overlooked aspect of packaging—its dual purpose. “Packaging has two core aspects—functionality and marketing. The primary role is to protect the product and ensure it reaches the consumer in its best form. The second role is to boost branding and market appeal,” he explains.

If packaging doesn’t meet both of these requirements, it won’t last. Our company’s goal is to deliver packaging papers and boards that satisfy both aspects. We will only work in segments where we can ensure these outcomes for our customers.

From India to the world: A strategic growth path

PrimeFiber is headquartered in Gurugram, India, but its vision extends across the subcontinent and beyond. “Our short-term goal is to establish a strong presence in India by partnering with select premium paper mills and helping them grow their brand and product presence in the Indian market,” Abbas states.

Our long-term goal is to be the top choice for packaging companies, brands, and paper mills that work in sustainable packaging. We want to be recognized not just for providing paper but for tackling complex problems in the paper packaging industry.

Expanding its geographical reach, Abbas shares, “From our base in Gurugram, we’ll serve the Indian subcontinent—Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Nepal. We’re also planning to launch in the Middle East soon to cater to that market, including Egypt and Turkey.”

Paper packaging: A sustainable future

For Abbas, the move into sustainable paper packaging is both timely and necessary. “There’s a growing global push towards a circular economy and an increasing number of regulations banning single-use plastics. These trends point to a massive opportunity for paper-based packaging.”

Addressing a common myth, he adds, “There’s a misconception that paper packaging causes deforestation. But the truth is, most packaging paper comes from cultivated forests. In fact, due to strict European regulations and voluntary actions by European paper companies, forest cover has increased over the years, even as paper sales have surged.”

“Paper is the future of packaging,” Abbas asserts. “It will remain at the forefront of sustainable packaging solutions for decades to come.”

Redefining the role of a packaging partner

One of PrimeFiber’s core differentiators is its client-centric approach. Abbas explains, “We will focus on our customers’ specific needs—not just push the available product portfolio. Our team will search globally for the right packaging paper or board and, where required, collaborate with our partner mills to innovate new solutions for the Indian market.”

He continues, “Our clients—be it brands or packaging companies—will not experience a traditional supplier relationship. They will see us as partners who understand their challenges and work with them to solve them.”

This mindset also applies to PrimeFiber’s partners. “To our partner paper mills, our message is clear: We will help you establish and grow in one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. We will not only support you in reaching your top-line and bottom-line goals, but also provide market feedback and strategic insights to help you innovate for future demand.”

A fresh perspective for the industry

Abbas believes PrimeFiber will bring a much-needed change to how the industry operates. “Both brand owners and packaging companies will find that working with us offers a never-before experience. We’re not here to impose our products on them. We’re here to understand their needs and source the right solutions globally.”

He concludes with a compelling thought, “Paper mills too will appreciate our fresh outlook. By working with us, they won’t just enter a new market—they will gain a partner in innovation. One who helps them think about the future, not just today.”

A trusted partner for a sustainable future

In a world where businesses are called to prioritize both performance and responsibility, PrimeFiber Global Paper Solutions aims to be a trusted partner for brands, packaging companies, and paper mills alike.

Zaheer Abbas’s message to potential clients is clear but impactful - “Trust us not to sell, but to serve. Trust us to find the right packaging paper solutions—not the ones we have, but the ones you truly need.”

With experience, vision, and a strong commitment to sustainability at its core, PrimeFiber is ready to lead the next wave of transformation in the packaging industry—one responsible sheet of paper at a time.