Kraft paper prices in India are firming as a shortage of imported waste paper tightens supply for packaging mills. Naresh Singhal, president of the Indian Recovered Paper Traders Association (IRPTA), said 18 BF kraft paper in North India was quoted at Rs 36 and could reach Rs 37 within days, according to a report published by The Pulp and Paper Times on October 2, 2026.
The kraft paper price rise matters for corrugated box makers and packaging converters, who buy kraft as a core input. Singhal told the publication the market shows “significant changes…particularly in terms of prices, international market conditions.”
How High Have Kraft Paper Prices Gone in India?
In North India, 18 BF kraft paper stood at Rs 36, with a projection of Rs 37 and stability expected through October 20 to 25. In Chennai, the same grade moved from Rs 36 to a projected Rs 38. The report did not state the unit explicitly, but kraft paper in India is conventionally quoted per kilogram.
Domestic waste paper in North India was quoted at Rs 22 per kg. In Gujarat, standard kraft waste paper was at Rs 23.50 per kg and pure kraft at Rs 24 per kg. The gap between waste paper and finished kraft widened from Rs 9 to Rs 14.50.
Why Is Imported Waste Paper Short?
The report cites container constraints and freight difficulties, along with reduced availability of imported waste paper. Festival-season demand ahead of Durga Puja, Navratri and Diwali is adding to buying. European waste paper (98/2) was quoted at around Rs 210 in the report.
Market Reaction and Industry Response
The main voice in the source is the IRPTA president. The report describes the domestic market as firm. Industrial Front did not find separate comment from corrugated box makers or packaging associations, and no stock reaction was reported.
What Happens Next?
Prices in North India are expected to hold through October 20 to 25. After that, the direction will depend on how freight and container availability evolve and on how long festive demand lasts. Box makers may seek to pass higher input costs to brand owners if the firmness persists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are kraft paper prices rising in India?
Imported waste paper is in short supply because of container and freight constraints, while festival-season demand is strong. This tightens supply for kraft mills.
What is the current price of 18 BF kraft paper?
In North India it was quoted at Rs 36, with Rs 37 projected within days. In Chennai the projection was Rs 38, up from Rs 36.
How long will prices stay firm?
The IRPTA president expects North India prices to remain stable through October 20 to 25, 2026.
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