In this first instalment of a three-part Packaging MEA series, Ben Daniel explores how innovations in inks, coatings, and adhesives are enabling the packaging industry to meet ambitious sustainability targets. From de-inkable systems to carbon-neutral adhesives and recyclable coatings, the building blocks of modern packaging are evolving and MEA converters must adapt to stay …
swop 2025 unveils Packaging Solutions Matrix with seven highlights addressing industry pain points
Accelerating sustainability targets, rising digitalization, and evolving consumer expectations continue to influence global packaging development. As part of the interpack alliance, swop is set to showcase advancements in artificial intelligence, automated and digital packaging, sustainable and lightweight solutions, packaging machinery, innovative materials, components, printed labels, and packaging design. Occupying more than 70,000 sqm, swop 2025 …
Flexo Rising: Driving packaging print into a new era
As gravure maintains its stronghold in long-run, high-quality packaging, flexography is accelerating as the industry’s most versatile print process. From flexible packaging to labels, cartons, and corrugated formats, flexo’s unique blend of cost-efficiency, adaptability, and scalability is reshaping the global packaging print landscape. Ben Daniel, Editor of Packaging MEA, reports on how converters across regions …
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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 …
Sustainability at forefront as industry leaders discuss Innovation & Circular Economy in Packaging
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 …
MENA: Forecast for the Packaging Industry in 2025
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 …
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Al Shareef Pack expands operations with major investment in cutting-edge machinery
Amidst Riyadh’s bustling industrial landscape, Al Shareef Pack has solidified its reputation as a trusted leader in Packaging, Printing, and Converting. Founded in 1992 as a commercial press, the company has flourished under the visionary leadership of Mr. Abdullah Al-Shareef, accumulating over three decades of industry expertise. A Legacy of Growth and Innovation …
CPA celebrates inaugural year: Pioneering sustainable packaging in the Middle East
Founded on the groundwork laid by the Circle Coalition, CPA emerged in early 2023 with a mission to revolutionize the packaging value chain. Reflecting on their inaugural year, Sarma expressed pride in CPA’s theme for this year’s annual report, “Together Towards Tomorrow,” emphasizing its role in uniting diverse voices for sustainable packaging practices. …
Packaging Design: The silent force in global market and the power of packaging in the MEA market
In a busy marketplace, brands compete for our attention with many messages. Flashy ads, celebrity endorsements, and social media campaigns all fight for our limited focus. Yet, in this noisy environment, there’s a silent salesperson working hard on every shelf, in every store, around the world: packaging design. This article delves into the …
Insights into corrugated packaging trends in MENA
Corrugated packaging demand in the GCC and MENA region is on a steady rise, projecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4-6% through 2030. This growth is buoyed by a favourable business climate and robust industrial expansion in key economies like KSA and the UAE. Despite these opportunities, manufacturers face intensifying competition and …
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