Packem Umasree Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between Packem SA of Brazil and Umasree Texplast of India, announced the inauguration of 100% sustainable rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) bottle to FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container/ Jumbo Bag) bag plant. The inauguration was attended by the Governor of Parana, Brazil, Carlos Roberto Massa Junior, and Ambassador of Brazil, H.E. Mr. Kenneth Felix Haczynski Da Nobrega.  

Located in Gangad village near Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, the plant represents a collaborative effort between two industry leaders committed to advancing environmental stewardship. "Through cutting-edge technology and innovative processes, Packem Umasree Pvt Ltd will transform recycled PET bottles into high-quality FIBC bags, pioneering a closed-loop system that minimises waste and promotes circular economy principles," according to the statement. It further added that the new production unit is expected to create about 700 direct jobs and 1200 indirect jobs.   

Punit Gopalka, CEO of Packem Umasree Pvt Ltd, expressed his gratitude to Governor Carlos Junior and Ambassador of Brazil, H.E. Mr. Kenneth Felix Haczynski Da Nobrega for their presence and shared his vision for the project, stating, "We are honoured to have Governor Carlos Roberto Massa Junior inaugurate our plant, symbolising the strong partnership between Brazil and India in driving sustainable development. With his support, we are confident in our ability to make a significant impact on the environment while contributing to economic growth and social progress."  

“This new facility in Asia will take Packem to global markets that are already served today by Umasree, in PP bags, especially in the USA, Canada and Europe. We have been Umasree’s business partners for over 10 years, and it was this relationship of trust that enabled the Joint Venture to further strengthening this partnership,” said Eduardo Santos Neto, CEO of Packem.

The global FIBC market is led by five countries India, China, Vietnam, Turkey, and Mexico. In 2021, these countries exported 250 million units, with India accounting for 50% of that volume. At least two per cent of the global FIBC / Jumbo Bag market will be able to immediately replace the polypropylene product with recycled PET/PCR bags and this replacement will increase over the years, the statement added.  

“Our rPET big bag will bring great environmental and social benefits to India, in addition to direct jobs. It is estimated that every metric tonne of recycled plastic will create three local jobs for the collection and recycling industry. In addition, our project will create local demand for post-consumer PET bottles, with a positive impact on oceans, rivers and the environment in general,” pointed out Marcos Spitzner Filho, CFO of Packem.

According to the statement, the rPET/PCR to FIBC/Jumbo bags could be used for packaging of agricultural products. The special technology for the production of high-performance fabrics from recycled rPET/PCR is exclusive to the Austrian Company Starlinger, a leader in the production of machines for raffia plastic packaging and recycling equipment for plastics.