Iran War Drives Asian Shift from Plastic to Paper Packaging
The Iran war has pushed plastic prices to four-year highs, driving Asian firms to paper. Shortages have tripled inquiries for sustainable packaging options.
The escalating conflict involving Iran is driving an unexpected shift toward sustainable packaging across Asia as disruptions to petrochemical supplies cause plastic prices to reach four-year highs. In South Korea, packaging manufacturer Yonwoo, a subsidiary of KOLMAR KOREA CO LTD, reports that inquiries for its eco-friendly paper-based tubes and pouches have tripled. These alternatives are becoming increasingly attractive as the cost of raw materials, closely tied to the price of Brent Crude Oil, continues to climb and choke off the supply of single-use plastics.
Major global brands, including L'OREAL, are among those exploring these paper-based options. Kim Min-sang, a senior manager at Kolmar Korea, noted that the current interest is shifting from purely sustainability-focused firms to a broader market concerned about supply stability.
