Leap announces consolidated print operations in London
The marketing specialist has amalgamated its print operations into its central Clarkenwell hub following the decommissioning of its Woolwich print facility
According to the EMGE report, overcapacity in China could heighten competitive pressures on producers in other markets around the world
Paper industry consultant EMGE has warned that significant paper overcapacity in China is driving a surge in low-cost exports, potentially placing downward pressure on prices and prompting calls for protective trade measures in key markets.
EMGE made the revelation in its World Graphic Papers Forecast Report (Spring 2026), where it also highlighted various other key trends within the paper sector.
The consultancy says weak domestic demand in China is leaving manufacturers with excess production that is increasingly being channelled into export markets. EMGE says this could heighten competitive pressures on producers elsewhere, with some regions potentially considering measures to protect local paper industries.
Elsewhere in the report, EMGE said the global graphic papers market has settled into a “new normal” of sustained structural decline, driven by ongoing digitisation and changing consumption habits. However, it noted that recent geopolitical disruption has exposed the sector’s continued vulnerability to supply chain challenges and rising costs.
Looking ahead, the consultancy forecast further consolidation across the industry, with mills set to face additional pressure to improve efficiency and reduce capacity. Producers, EMGE says, are increasingly shifting towards higher-value and specialist products in an effort to protect margins and remain competitive.
The report also highlighted how many paper mills are operating at lower rates to help balance supply and demand, with some producers reducing output through commercial downtime while others continue to convert paper machines to packaging grades.
On regulation, EMGE notes the compliance deadline for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) was extended by 12 months to 30th December 2026.
“This has provided some companies with additional time to address complex data reporting requirements ahead of implementation, while frustrating those which had already achieved compliance,” it says.
Despite these challenges, some major players continue to deliver growth. Fedrigoni recently reported revenues of €1.9bn (£1.6bn) for 2025, up 3% year-on-year, while adjusted EBITDA increased by 5% to €303m.
The company says the performance reflected the benefits of its diversified portfolio and global footprint amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
More than 80% of Fedrigoni’s revenue was generated outside its home market of Italy, with operations spanning Europe and the wider international market. The company says this broad geographic presence helped support a balanced performance across its business units.
Fedrigoni adds that it remains focused on improving operational efficiency, integrating acquisitions completed in recent years and pursuing growth opportunities in both existing and adjacent markets. The group has completed 17 acquisitions since 2018.
Sustainability also remains a key area of focus for the business. During 2025, Fedrigoni continued work towards its 2030 ESG targets and was recognised by several third-party organisations for its environmental performance.
