Over 200 participants, kraft paper instead of leather, biodegradable materials from water hyacinth and rice straw, and shoes that do not oxidize

As reported by CCTV+, the 21st China International Pulp & Paper Industry Exhibition opened in Guangzhou. It showcased the latest technologies and flagship products of the entire paper industry chain.

The exhibition brought together more than 200 leading domestic and foreign paper manufacturers and equipment suppliers. Among the most notable innovations was specialty paper.

One exhibitor presented washable kraft paper — a material that is not only wear-resistant and wrinkle-resistant, but also biodegradable. This is a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional options.

This paper can be used for packaging bags and home decor items. But the real surprise is the exhibition booth itself. The bags and even the shoes displayed there are completely made from this kraft paper. The material feels like leather, but is much lighter.

Pan Chengzheng, an employee of Dongguan Guangzheng Paper Industry Co., Ltd., explained: “Compared to genuine leather, this material can be sold at about three times cheaper. It can last for ten or twenty years without oxidizing or forming bubbles. In contrast, polyurethane and genuine leather, after a foaming and surface treatment process, break down within three to five years.”

Another exhibitor, Guangzhou Junlong Paper Frontline Culture Co., Ltd., presented paper with a coarser texture and excellent flexibility. The product, made from water hyacinth fibers and rice straw, has a natural, mottled appearance with visible plant fibers. Another product, made from sisal and mulberry root bark, has great thickness and high tensile strength.

Lin Lin, an employee of the company, noted: “Our commitment to environmental protection was demonstrated in this product and has been recognized by customers. Our sales and orders remain relatively stable, and some domestic companies have recommended these two types of paper to international clients.”

The event also attracted international buyers who value the quality and reliability of Chinese paper manufacturers.

A buyer from India said: “Chinese manufacturers have good technology and quality products. That is why we have been cooperating with Chinese companies for 24 years.”

Paper that can be washed. Paper that does not rot for 20 years. Paper that looks like leather but costs three times less. And shoes made of paper that do not oxidize. China’s paper industry is no longer making what everyone is used to throwing away. It is making things that will last a long time. And without harming nature. Water hyacinth, rice straw, sisal — weeds and waste are turning into the packaging of the future. A buyer from India has been cooperating with China for 24 years. Because quality does not lie. And while the world is learning to sort trash, China is already making paper that does not need to be thrown away.