UAE-based paper producer Star Paper Mill signed two international partnership agreements during Make It In The Emirates 2026, in the presence of H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, reinforcing the country’s position as a growing hub for sustainable manufacturing and global trade.
The agreements were signed with Austria-based Heinzel Sales and Sweden’s Ekman & Co. AB in the presence of H.E. Dr. Etienne Berchtold and H.E. Fredrik Florén, ambassadors of Austria and Sweden to the UAE. Through these collaborations, Star Paper Mill aims to strengthen both its export activities and domestic market presence, targeting 68,000 metric tonnes in recycled paper exports while supplying a similar volume locally.
“These partnerships will enable us to reach new markets and consumer segments efficiently, reinforcing the UAE’s reputation as a reliable and high-quality exporter of sustainable paper products,” said Hussein Adam Ali, Chairman of Star Paper Mill. “These collaborations will further enhance our growth journey across global and domestic markets.”
Under the agreements, Heinzel Sales will support market expansion into new international geographies, while Ekman & Co. AB will oversee distribution activities within the UAE to strengthen local supply chains and customer engagement.
The announcement comes as Star Paper Mill advances operations at its AED 200 million recycled containerboard facility in KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi). The mill, built on a 59,000-square-metre site, has an annual production capacity of 135,000 tonnes and operates using 100% waste paper recycling, supporting the UAE’s circular economy and sustainability objectives.
“The partnerships underscore the UAE’s deepening international trade relationships and its commitment to strengthening economic ties with key global partners,” said Majid Rasheed, Managing Director of Star Paper Mill. “This milestone reflects the nation’s strategic focus on sustainable manufacturing, export growth, and industrial excellence, while reinforcing its position as a leading global trade hub.”
Demand for biodegradable recycled containerboard used in corrugated packaging and paper bags continues to grow across the UAE and GCC markets, supported by increasing consumption in retail, food service, and e-commerce sectors. Star Paper Mill is targeting export growth across the GCC, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, with the GCC remaining its primary market.
According to industry estimates, the UAE paper industry currently operates six recycled containerboard mills with a combined annual production capacity of approximately 675,000 metric tonnes, positioning the country as a net exporter of packaging materials and supporting the expansion of its non-oil economy.
“The collaboration reflects the strength of economic relations between Austria and the UAE,” said H.E. Dr. Etienne Berchtold. “It demonstrates how industrial partnerships can create mutual value, drive innovation, and contribute to more sustainable global supply chains.”
H.E. Fredrik Florén added: “Rooted in Sweden’s tradition of sustainable resource management and long-term thinking, this agreement reflects the strength of a partnership built on trust, sustainability, and shared ambition.”
