Meeting of Scientific and Industrial Associations of the Printing, Paper, and Board Industries: “Strengths, Weaknesses, Challenges, and Opportunities Ahead”

The meeting of the scientific and industrial associations of the printing, paper, and board industries, titled “Strengths, Weaknesses, Challenges, and Opportunities Ahead in the Printing and Paper Industry,” was held with the participation of experts and specialists in the field.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Printing and Paper Industry in Iran: The Necessity of Focusing on Knowledge and Technology

The printing and paper industry in Iran is a strategic sector that can enhance the country’s soft power. This industry not only plays a crucial role in production and employment but also impacts the cultural and economic processes in the country. During the joint meeting of the scientific and industrial associations, which focused on assessing the strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and opportunities of this industry, several key topics were discussed, including the need for support for domestic production and the development of university-industry connections.

Challenges Facing the Printing and Paper Industry in Iran
1. Shortage of Domestic Writing Paper: One of the significant challenges in Iran’s printing industry is the reliance on imports for writing paper. Mohammad Bitarafan, President of the Iranian Scientific and Technological Printing Association, mentioned that the country can only meet 30% of its writing paper needs domestically. This issue requires further support for local production and the allocation of appropriate foreign currency.
2. Imbalance in Writing Paper Production: Gholamreza Shoja, CEO of Lithographers Cooperative, pointed out the imbalance in the production of writing paper, stating that the annual production of this product is far from meeting the country’s needs. This problem puts pressure on the market and drives up prices.
3. Management and Regulatory Issues: Another problem in the printing industry is weak management and oversight, which results in economic misuse and a decline in product quality. Hamid Nikdel, President of the Tehran Paper and Cardboard Sellers Union, emphasized the need for managerial reforms in this sector.

Opportunities and Solutions for the Development of the Printing Industry
1. Development of University-Industry Connections: To address the challenges facing the printing industry, effective communication between universities and the industry is essential. Bitarafan mentioned that efforts are underway to define academic programs related to the printing industry at doctoral and undergraduate levels. Collaboration between applied-science universities and leading institutions such as Shahid Beheshti University can help develop technology, raw materials, and industrial processes.
2. Independence of the Printing Industry Office in the Ministry of Industry: Bitarafan also stressed the need to re-establish an independent office for the printing and cellulose industries within the Ministry of Industry. He believes that, given the importance of the printing industry, a dedicated office is required to provide more support to the sector.
3. Attention to the Digitalization of the Printing Industry: Considering technological advances and digitalization, the printing industry must move towards modernization and the use of artificial intelligence. Bitarafan called for associations to adopt scientific and digital management approaches to stay relevant.

The Importance of Government Support for the Printing and Paper Industry
1. The Need for Government Facilitation: While Iran has reached relative self-sufficiency in packaging, it still relies on imports for writing and specialty papers. Bitarafan stated that the government should support the importers of these materials by allocating suitable foreign currency to ensure a smooth supply chain.
2. Investment in Research and Development: Hosseini Azami, President of the Carton and Board Manufacturers Association, also pointed to the need for bringing science and technology into the printing industry. He believes that technical knowledge and research and development must be paired with financial investment to achieve sustainable progress.

The Role of Exhibitions in Strengthening Industry-Government Relations
1. Exhibitions as Communication Platforms: Reza Omidi, the organizer of the Paper and Board Exhibition, emphasized the role of exhibitions as a bridge between the industry, government, entrepreneurs, and universities. Exhibitions can serve as a platform for showcasing the capabilities of the printing and paper industry and addressing the challenges it faces.
2. Proposing Workshops and Educational Seminars: Omidi also suggested that, alongside exhibitions, workshops and educational seminars should be organized to delve deeper into the scientific and technical aspects of the printing industry.

Conclusion

The printing and paper industry in Iran, as a key and driving economic sector, faces numerous challenges. From the shortage of domestic writing paper to management issues and weak university-industry relations, this industry requires more attention and serious support. However, opportunities such as the creation of an independent office for the printing and cellulose industries in the Ministry of Industry, strengthening university-industry ties, and utilizing new technologies such as artificial intelligence could help resolve these issues and lead to sustainable growth in this sector.