West Coast Paper is continuously making phase wise investment for improving paper quality, developing new speciality products

West Coast Paper is continuously making phase wise investment for improving paper quality, developing new speciality products

The Pulp and Paper Times

West Coast Paper Mills Limited (WCPM) is one of the oldest and the largest producers of paper for printing, writing, and packaging in India. Established in 1955, the Mill is located at Dandeli in Uttara Kannada district in Karnataka. The global quality paper produced by the Company serves the needs of innumerable industries in printing, writing, publishing, stationary, notebooks and packaging sectors in India, in the process contributing to the development of the nation.

West Coast Paper Mills Limited has reported a year of resilient operational performance amid margin pressures, with management emphasizing efficiency, portfolio upgradation, and sustained commitment to responsible business practices.

The financial year 2024-25 was marked by both challenges and achievements. WCPM’s turnover stood at Rs. 2,50,160 lakh, reflecting the impact of subdued paper prices due to heightened imports at lower rates. Despite a significant rise in wood prices and decreased realization, profit after tax stood at Rs. 28,471 lakh.

The Paper and Paperboard Division achieved a production of 3,18,590 MT, representing 99.6% capacity utilization, while Sales volumes reached 3,13,823 MT. Our operating EBITDA margin for the paper segment stood at 15%

“Our vision for the future is anchored in strategic integration. In the paper division, we are continuously making phase wise investment for improving paper quality, developing new speciality products and reducing usage of steam, power, chemical, water and minimize the breakdown of machines.” Mr. S. K. Bangur, Chairman of West Coast Paper Mills stated in the annual report for FY 24-25.

Mr. Bangur further added, that, the Indian paper industry stands at a pivotal juncture, buoyed by rising literacy rates, expanding educational needs and a growing preference for sustainable packaging solutions. India, now the world’s 15th largest paper producer, is projected to reach a market value of USD 19.1 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of approximately 7.5% from 2024 to 2033. The sector’s growth is propelled by increasing demand for writing, printing and specialty papers, as well as the shift towards eco-friendly alternatives in packaging and hygiene products. As the world moves towards sustainability, our industry’s role in providing responsible solutions becomes ever more significant.

Besides the focus on the domestic markets, exports remain a key pillar of our growth strategy. During the year, we exported paper and paperboard to over 15 countries and optical fibre cables to more than 25 countries, including markets in Europe and the Middle East. While export volumes faced some headwinds due to global market conditions, our ability to adapt and explore new geographies has enabled us to sustain and grow our international business. These initiatives not only diversify our revenue streams but also enhance our brand’s global standing. Our commitment to excellence knows no boundaries and we continue to seek new opportunities beyond our shores.

Despite these challenges, the company sees steady demand drivers in packaging, education, and speciality segments, and is positioning itself through product mix refinement and cost optimization. On the cable side, the report notes that global demand, particularly from China, remained subdued, but anticipates a demand resurgence in FY 2025–26, supported by large-scale digital infrastructure programs such as the US BEAD program and India’s BharatNet project, as well as growth in ASEAN, Middle East & Africa markets.

The combination of expanded capacity and ongoing efficiency initiatives is expected to help West Coast Paper Mills capture emerging opportunities once pricing and raw material pressures stabilize.
 

Published at : Jul 15, 2026 03:35 AM (IST)

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