Pulp & Paper Chronicle Executive Industry Intelligence Report July 2026 | Weekly Edition 1

Introduction

The global pulp, paper and packaging industry entered July 2026 with remarkable momentum as companies across Europe, Asia, North America and Latin America accelerated investments, embraced digital transformation, strengthened sustainability commitments and expanded strategic partnerships. While capital investment remained the week's dominant theme, the industry also witnessed significant developments in mergers and acquisitions, product innovation, operational resilience, environmental stewardship, policy updates, and industry collaboration.

From the commissioning of next-generation containerboard machines and AI-powered manufacturing systems to recyclable packaging innovations and cross-border partnerships, the week's announcements collectively illustrate an industry preparing for long-term growth while adapting to rapidly evolving customer expectations and sustainability requirements. At the same time, operational challenges, regulatory developments and market performance indicators highlighted the importance of resilience, efficiency and strategic planning in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

Cristini Supports Europe's Largest Recycled Containerboard Project

Cristini S.p.A. has secured a strategic supplier role for the PM3 project at Shotton Mill in the United Kingdom. The paper machine, developed for Eren Paper, will become one of the world's widest recycled containerboard machines with a 10.1-metre forming width and an annual production capacity of approximately 650,000 tonnes.

The project demonstrates continued confidence in recycled packaging demand while reinforcing Europe's leadership in sustainable containerboard production.

KAMA Modernizes Wastewater Infrastructure

KAMA, part of the Sveza Group, invested more than 50 million rubles in upgrading wastewater treatment facilities. The modernization includes automated pumping systems, renovated infrastructure and improved energy efficiency.

Beyond improving environmental performance, the project enhances operational reliability while supporting long-term sustainability objectives.

Digital Transformation at KAMA

KAMA also completed a major ERP modernization project valued at more than 180 million rubles.

The implementation integrates production planning, accounting, procurement, payroll and manufacturing execution into a single platform, reducing cost calculation time by nearly three times while enabling better operational planning.

The project highlights how digital transformation has become a strategic investment rather than simply an IT upgrade.

LG Electronics Brings High-Temperature Heat Pumps to Paper Industry

LG Electronics supplied its advanced 108°C industrial heat pump to Ajin P&P in South Korea.

The technology significantly reduces fossil fuel consumption by recovering waste heat, supporting South Korea's national carbon neutrality strategy while lowering operating costs for paper manufacturing.

High-temperature industrial heat pumps are rapidly emerging as one of the industry's most important decarbonization technologies.

AI Expands into Wood Panel Manufacturing

Arauco announced plans to install AI-powered Visual Analyzer R7 systems at two Chilean mills.

The artificial intelligence platform automatically identifies product defects during panel repair operations, improving product quality while reducing manual inspection requirements.

The project reflects the increasing adoption of AI across forest products manufacturing.

RDM Group Strengthens Packaging Collaboration

RDM Group hosted the ASPACK Board at its Santa Giustina Mill, reinforcing collaboration between paperboard producers and packaging converters.

The event focused on strengthening supply chain relationships and addressing market challenges through industry cooperation.

Johnson & Johnson Expands Manufacturing Capacity

Johnson & Johnson announced an investment exceeding US$1 billion to expand its Florida vision manufacturing operations.

Although outside traditional pulp production, the expansion demonstrates continued investment in packaging-intensive healthcare manufacturing and advanced production technologies.

Minhan Paper Expands Recycling Capacity

Vietnam's Minhan Paper placed a repeat order with ANDRITZ for a complete OCC recycling line.

The investment supports growing demand for recycled packaging paper while improving fiber recovery, operational efficiency and resource utilization.

Valmet Strengthens Partnership with Sun Paper

Valmet will deliver a complete board production line to Sun Paper's Nanning mill in China.

The project combines advanced automation, lifecycle services and energy-efficient production technologies aimed at increasing containerboard capacity while reducing energy consumption.

Amcor Expands Intelligent Packaging Manufacturing

Amcor began construction of a major expansion at its Dongguan, China facility.

The new automated manufacturing center will increase production capacity while incorporating solvent-free lamination, automated warehousing and recycle-ready packaging technologies.

The investment strengthens Amcor's manufacturing footprint across the Asia-Pacific region.

2. Shutdowns, Closures & Curtailments

International Paper Temporarily Suspends Pine Hill Mill Operations Following Weather Damage

International Paper temporarily suspended manufacturing operations at its Pine Hill, Alabama mill after severe weather damaged a critical section of the facility's roof. The company emphasized that employee and contractor safety was the primary reason for the decision, demonstrating a proactive approach to operational risk management. Repair work is underway, with production expected to resume in August. During the shutdown, International Paper is coordinating with customers to minimize supply disruptions and maintain service continuity. This incident highlights the importance of resilient infrastructure and contingency planning in modern pulp and paper operations.

3. Mergers, Partnerships & Joint Ventures

Konecranes Expands into Japan Through Mitsubishi Electric FA Industrial Products Acquisition

Konecranes has strengthened its presence in Japan by acquiring a majority stake in Mitsubishi Electric FA Industrial Products, enhancing its position in the country's industrial lifting equipment market. The acquisition expands Konecranes' product portfolio, service capabilities and customer reach while supporting its long-term growth strategy across the Asia-Pacific region.

Emmepi Group Completes Acquisition of Avanti Conveyors

Emmepi Group has acquired Avanti Conveyors, reinforcing its expertise in conveyor systems for the corrugated packaging industry. Rebranded as Emmepi Group UK, the acquisition broadens the company's engineering capabilities and strengthens its ability to deliver integrated automation solutions to customers worldwide.

Södra Completes Sale of SunPine Stake

Södra has sold its 25% ownership in renewable fuels producer SunPine as part of its strategy to focus on its core forestry and forest products business. The transaction enables Södra to reallocate capital toward strategic growth initiatives while allowing SunPine to continue expanding its renewable tall oil-based products.

Arbex Targets More Than 35% Global Tissue Market Share

Arbex, the tissue joint venture between Suzano and Kimberly-Clark, has outlined an ambitious goal of capturing more than 35% of the global tissue market. By combining Suzano's leadership in pulp production with Kimberly-Clark's global consumer brands, the company aims to accelerate innovation, expand market presence and strengthen its competitive position in the global tissue sector.

4. Sustainability & Circular Economy

ITC Advances Circular Packaging and Paper Value Chain—cover recyclable packaging, fibre-based materials, renewable energy, and sustainable forestry.

5. Products & Innovation

Duni Group Strengthens Recyclability Across the Duniform® Range

Duni Group announced a significant enhancement to its Duniform® product portfolio by transitioning much of its takeaway, ready-meal and catering packaging range to mono-material polypropylene (PP). The move eliminates unnecessary additives and fillers, making the products fully compatible with existing recycling systems without compromising functionality or performance.

Pankaboard Launches High-Performance PankaTray Kraft

Pankaboard unveiled PankaTray Kraft, a premium cartonboard grade designed specifically for demanding food tray applications. Manufactured from 100% high-quality kraft fibres, the new product offers exceptional strength, rigidity and structural integrity for ovenable food trays, including both deep-pressed and folded formats.

Smurfit Westrock and Coca-Cola China Introduce Paper-Based Packaging for the 2026 World Cup

Smurfit Westrock partnered with Coca-Cola China to develop an innovative range of paper-based packaging solutions for the brand's 2026 FIFA World Cup promotional campaign. Designed for both retail shelves and e-commerce channels, the packaging combines attractive presentation with improved functionality while reducing reliance on conventional packaging materials.

Voith Expands Film Press Technology with eVenFilm Pro

Voith expanded its film press portfolio with the introduction of eVenFilm Pro, a next-generation high-performance film application technology developed to improve coating quality and machine efficiency. The new system provides highly uniform film application, enabling better paper surface properties while reducing coating consumption and operational costs.

Tetra Pak Launches Industrial Bioreactor to Improve Production Efficiency

Tetra Pak introduced a new industrial bioreactor designed to optimize fermentation processes while reducing operating costs by up to 12 percent. The advanced system combines improved mixing technology, optimized process control and enhanced energy efficiency to help manufacturers increase productivity while lowering resource consumption.

Kappa Rus Introduces Tear-Off Tape for Retail-Ready Transport Packaging

Kappa Rus expanded its packaging portfolio with a new tear-off tape solution designed to simplify the transition from transport packaging to retail-ready displays. The integrated opening system enables faster shelf replenishment while reducing packaging damage and improving handling efficiency for retailers.

6.Incidents, Safety & Environmental Events

Two Additional Kraft Pulp Mills Under Investigation Following Longview Tank Disaster

Following the fatal black liquor tank explosion at Nippon Dynawave's Longview mill, investigators have expanded inspections to two additional kraft pulp mills with similar tank configurations. The broader investigation aims to identify potential safety risks, strengthen preventive measures, and improve industry-wide standards for equipment integrity and worker safety.

Washington State to Seek Cleanup Cost Reimbursement From Nippon Dynawave

Washington State officials announced plans to seek reimbursement from Nippon Dynawave for environmental cleanup costs incurred after the Longview tank disaster. The move underscores the importance of corporate environmental responsibility while ensuring that public resources used in emergency response and remediation are recovered from the responsible party.

7. Leadership & Corporate Updates

Andreas Mattsson Appointed as New Chief Legal Officer of Essity

Cascades Announces the Appointment of François David as Vice-President, Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainable Development

8. Operations & Supply Chain

Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro Extends Power Agreement with Corner Brook Pulp and Paper—cover the one-year power purchase agreement, energy security, and its importance for the regional forestry economy.

9. Policy, Regulation & Trade

Brazil's Corrugated Cardboard Shipments Rise in May—analyze shipment volumes, demand trends, and implications for the packaging market.

10. Awards, Certifications & Recognition

TOPPAN Group's Siam Toppan Wins Six Major Packaging Awards

11. Industry Events & Conferences

LatamCORR Brasil 2026 Strengthens Latin America's Corrugated Packaging Industry

Scheduled for 12 November 2026 at the Royal Palm Hall in Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, LatamCORR Brasil 2026 will bring together corrugated packaging manufacturers, paper producers, technology suppliers and industry leaders for the country's first event dedicated exclusively to the corrugated board and paper packaging sector. The event will provide a platform for technical presentations, business networking and knowledge exchange, reinforcing Latin America's growing role in the global corrugated packaging industry while promoting innovation, sustainability and investment across the regional packaging value chain.