Hyderabad to host AGM of paper traders body from Oct. 3

The paper trade’s demand for a cut in GST, along with sustainability, technology and new growth opportunities, is set to dominate discussions at the 65th annual general meeting of the Federation of Paper Traders’ Association (FPTA) in Hyderabad from October 3 to 5.The association is seeking a reduction in GST on paper from the existing 18% to 5%, among other taxation-related issues, at the three-day event.The AGM, being organised by the FPTA in collaboration with the Telangana Paper Merchants’ Association (TPMA), will be inaugurated by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on October 3. Hyderabad-based Tirumala Balaji Paper managing director T. Kishan Singh is set to take over as nominee president of the FPTA during the programme, the organisers said on Monday.TPMA president Abhishek Vijaywargiya said more than 1,000 delegates from across India, including manufacturers, industry leaders and policymakers, are expected to attend the conference. The discussions will focus on the growth of the paper trade and manufacturing sectors, sustainability, technological advancements, taxation and emerging business opportunities.The Indian paper industry produces over 24 million tonnes annually, contributes more than ₹1 lakh crore to the economy, provides direct employment to about 5 lakh people and supports around 15 lakh people indirectly, he said.Mr.Kishan Singh said the paper traders are a crucial link between paper mills and consumers, supplying paper to publishers, notebook manufacturers, printers, converters and various other industries. “We seek the government’s recognition and support, particularly in addressing the shortage of suitable warehouse space. Even in Hyderabad, finding locations to store paper and efficiently supply it to different industries is a major challenge,” he said.TPMA secretary Ashish Jain Bhansali said despite increasing digitisation, paper remains indispensable across sectors. “We appeal to the Centre to reduce GST on paper and paper products from 18% to 5%,” he said. Published - September 28, 2026 08:15 pm IST