At Printpack India 2025, UFlex Chemicals showcased its innovative breakthroughs in printing inks, adhesives, and coatings solutions. Reflecting on the journey of UFlex Chemicals since 1994, the company has been continuously expanding its product portfolio to meet evolving market demands. “We initially focused on flexible packaging but have since expanded into offset packaging, narrow web packaging, and corrugation,” explains Rajesh Srivastava, senior vice president, Chemicals Business, UFlex.
Standing out in a competitive market
“The printing inks and coatings market is becoming increasingly competitive, with customer expectations continuously rising. However, UFlex Chemicals business is focusing on value addition and performance enhancement,” says Srivastava.
With advancements in printing and packaging, there is a growing demand for high-performance inks and adhesives compatible with advanced machinery, such as high-speed rotogravure and flexo machines, paper bag-making machines, and label printing presses. “Our strength lies in our deep understanding of application chemistry as we provide customized solutions driven by innovation and knowledge,” he says.
Sustainability at the core
Sustainability remains a top priority for UFlex. “We are committed to the 3Rs of sustainability – Reduce, Recycle, and Reuse,” Srivastava says. The company is actively developing water-based inks for flexible packaging, corrugated board printing, and paper bag printing. Additionally, it has successfully introduced water-based laminating adhesives for paper-based laminate substrates.
“Switching to water-based solutions significantly reduces solvent emissions and energy consumption,” he explains. “Another major initiative is our LED-based inks for offset, narrow web and flexible packaging. LED curing reduces energy costs significantly compared to conventional UV lamps, helping lower carbon emissions.”
Beyond these efforts, UFlex is actively working on green chemistry, including oil-based PU formulations, to further enhance sustainability. “Sustainability is no longer just a trend – it gives us a serious view to think about the future, and we are dedicated to developing sustainable solutions that truly make a difference,” Srivastava adds.
Regulatory changes and their impact
In India, food packaging regulations are becoming more stringent. “The FSSAI standard IS 15495-2022 mandates a ban on toluene in packaging inks,” Srivastava points out. “Although this is a compliance-driven change, sustainability is more of a brand-driven initiative rather than a regulatory requirement.”
However, he acknowledges the challenges brands face in adapting to sustainable packaging. “In India, product shelf life and logistics conditions make it difficult to shift completely to paper-based packaging without compromising barrier properties and durability. But with global brands expanding into India, we expect major advancements in the next five years,” he predicts.
Emerging trends – efficiency, cost reduction and fast curing
The printing and packaging industry is undergoing rapid transformations, with efficiency improvements being a major focus. “Machines are running at higher speeds exceeding 500 meters per minute, “Srivastava notes.
At the same time, manufacturers are seeking ways to reduce consumable usage. “Printers are working to lower ink and adhesive consumption while maintaining high print quality. There’s also a strong push toward fast-curing adhesives, laser-engraved cylinders, and water-based printing for better cost-effectiveness and sustainability,” he explains.
Navigating supply chain challenges and raw material costs
The global supply chain remains a challenge, particularly in securing raw materials for ink manufacturing. “Majority of raw materials in the ink industry are still imported, with significant reliance on Europe, Japan, Korea, and China,” Srivastava highlights.
“While the supply chain situation has been relatively stable over the past six months, geopolitical tensions and fluctuating logistics costs continue to pose risks due to lower demand in Western countries, we have been able to procure materials as per market demand maintaining supply efficiency,” he admits.
Future roadmap – innovation and expansion
Looking ahead, UFlex Chemicals Business is actively diversifying beyond traditional packaging applications. “We are expanding into the construction and decor industry, barrier coatings, and more sustainable solutions for the packaging industry” Srivastava reveals.
At Printpack India 2025, the company showcased its product range for the construction and décor industry, including PVC profiles, doors, edge banding, SPC flooring, wood/metal spray coatings etc. “These products were largely dependent on imports, but we are now offering local solutions to meet market demands,” he notes.
