The Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria (CIPPON) has unveiled plans to cause a reduction in paper prices nationwide through a strategic partnership with a private Chinese paper manufacturer.
For many years now, Nigeria hs relied on paper importation for its priniting industry which has has rubbed off on the cost of paper and products made of paper in the country.
According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria spent a significant N296.696 billion on paper imports between July and December 2021. Importation figures continued to rise, reaching N412 billion in 2022, reflecting a 25 percent increase. Earlier statistics from the NBS indicated that Nigeria’s paper imports totaled N328.9 billion in 2021, N188.6 billion in 2020, N491 billion in 2019, and N214.3 billion in 2018.
In a statement issued by CIPPON’s spokesperson, Ameh Kennedy Gabriel, the collaboration is in line with the commitments made by the institute’s President and Chairman in Council, Dr. Omoniyi Adesoye.
“This partnership involves a collaborative effort with a private company from the People’s Republic of China, specifically established to utilize 85% of our raw materials for processing and other related useful accessories right here in Nigeria.
“One of the significant challenges faced by printers is the high cost of papers, driven by the negative influence of cartels in the paper importation and distribution chain. The CIPPON Council is addressing these challenges by fostering a business-friendly environment that supports private investors in establishing paper mills, ensuring that all printers benefit from the program as more paper mills are set to be established.
“The paper factory, currently the first functional mill in the country, has generated substantial employment opportunities for our citizens. The collaboration’s aims and objectives are centered around ensuring that papers reach end-users directly, simultaneously enhancing profitability in the printing profession,” said Gabriel.
