Abu dhabi: Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, inaugurated the AED 200 million recycled containerboard manufacturing facility of Star Paper Mill in Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) during the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event.
According to Emirates News Agency, the launch of the KEZAD plant marks a milestone in the UAE's efforts to drive sustainable industrial development, enhance national manufacturing capabilities, and advance towards a circular economy. The facility converts locally sourced waste paper into high-quality recycled containerboard, aiding the packaging industry amidst increasing demand.
The KEZAD plant spans 90,000 square metres and boasts an annual production capacity of 135,000 tonnes of recycled containerboard. It will recycle up to 80% of waste paper sourced domestically, reducing pressure on UAE landfills and supporting the nation's sustainability goals. Hussein Adam Ali, Chairman of Star Paper Mill, emphasized the facility's role in contributing to the UAE's industrial and sustainability vision.
Majid Rasheed, Managing Director of Star Paper Mill, highlighted the importance of sourcing a significant portion of waste paper in-country, contributing to self-sufficiency and reducing import reliance. This initiative aligns with the UAE's net zero ambitions and addresses the growing packaging market in the UAE and GCC, a priority export region for the company.
According to Grand View Research, the UAE paper packaging market, valued at approximately US$3.8 billion, is expected to surpass US$6 billion by 2033. The GCC paper packaging market, currently over US$9 billion, is projected to grow to US$13 billion in the same period.
Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of Emirates Development Bank, noted that the new plant exemplifies the resilient and future-ready industries the UAE is fostering. The facility supports local production, reduces import dependency, and contributes to long-term economic growth, reinforcing KEZAD's position as a hub for sustainable industrial development. Mohammed Ghareeb Al Hosani, CXO of KEZAD Group, added that integrated ecosystems enable efficient and environmentally responsible manufacturing.