Soyang introduces new paper-based DTF film Soyang Europe, a manufacturer and distributor of wide-format equipment and media, has expanded its direct-tofilm (DTF) range with the launch of a paper-based transfer media, which aims to offer a more environmentally conscious alternative to conventional PET transfer film. The new single-sided release-coated transfer paper, named Soyang DTF Paper, features anti-static treatment and a hot-peel release. Designed for use with digital inkjet DTF printers running water-based pigment inks, the media can be recycled through standard paper waste streams, with the aim of helping print businesses reduce plastic waste. Developed to work seamlessly with existing DTF production environments, Soyang DTF Paper reportedly delivers the same transfer performance and print results of conventional media. The material is OEKO-TEX certified, confirming it has been independently tested against internationally recognised standards for harmful substances. Available in 60cm x 100m rolls, Soyang DTF Paper is suited to applications including personalised garments, workwear, sportswear, and promotional clothing. European paper production in decline according to report The Confederation of European Paper Industries (Cepi) has released its 2025 Key Statistics Report, highlighting a slow but continued decline in paper and board production – despite its significant contribution to Europe’s circular economy and climate goals. According to the report, overall paper and board production in Europe declined by 1.6% in 2025, reaching 77.4 million tonnes. Cepi believes that this reflects “a continued correction after the post-pandemic surge,” rather than a return to stable growth. While market pulp production grew by 1.0%, this represents a strategic but relatively small proportion of the sector’s overall production. According to Cepi, early signals from 2026 point to continued weakening for the sector, with output already down 2.4% in the first quarter compared to the same period in 2025. The decline comes despite European pulp and paper producers’ strong sustainability performance. Pulp and paper producers reduced specific CO2 emissions by 10.2% in 2025, continues to operate what Cepi calls “the world’s most effective recycling system”, and sources an all-time high 92% of its wood and nearly all of its recycled material from Europe. While the organisation found that overall demand has only slightly eroded, the figures show a number of notable structural shifts. For example, while production of packaging grades remained stable, there was a significant contraction for cartonboard (-5.4%) while graphic papers declined sharply (-7.3%). Excluding graphic papers, European production was relatively stable in 2025, but still 7.0% below the record levels of 2021. Cepi believes that this reflects an intensifying global competition, with impacts worsened by a difficult geopolitical context. Paper industry consultant, EMGE, recently 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. Paper producers worldwide have raised prices in lockstep in 2026, highlighting issues including electricity and natural gas price rises, as well as a general rise in the cost of paper pulp. Many companies also point to an especially competitive market and the impacts of global events including the recent conflict in the Middle East, with the sum of all the factors creating a ‘perfect storm’ of unprecedented operating costs for paper manufacturers. By Jonathan Pert By Jonathan Pert 21 www.printmonthly.co.uk September | October 2026 - Issue 362 MATERIALS | NEWS PG Paper secures exclusive UK distribution partnership International premium paper brand, Double A, will expand its presence in the UK market through a new distribution partnership with PG Paper. PG Paper, a global paper merchant and international trading house based in the UK, has been appointed as Double A’s exclusive UK distribution partner, with the aim of increasing the availability of its full product range across the market with a dependable supply infrastructure. Double A produces millions of tonnes of copier paper annually and operates in more than 130 countries, supported by large-scale, vertically integrated manufacturing operations. By utilising its global sourcing expertise and established UK presence, PG Paper will support the nationwide distribution of Double A paper products, providing customers with access to the brand’s premium office paper backed by local service. Cepi has called for clear policies to be implemented to protect Europe’s paper industry following the report Double A paper is now available across the UK through PG Paper’s dedicated sales team By Jonathan Pert SoyangDTF Paper is designed to helpprint businesses reduce plastic waste
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