On addressing the low investment in packaging industries in developing countries
Initiatives towards growth of packaging industries in developing countries may come either from improving
traditional technologies or importing new ones. However, more relevant than the appropriateness and balance
of the selected mix of strategies, the success of these initiatives will be contingent on a country’s enabling
environment, both economic and political. As packaging materials are in short supply in developing countries,
relaxing packaging regulations without sacrificing food safety considerations may assist the industry to develop.
An example is allowing the use of recycled packaging materials when they pose no problem of contamination
(i.e. for use with dried foods). Such relaxation of packaging standards will help increase supply of packaging
materials while at the same time addressing food loss concerns. While prospects are bright for the growth of
the packaging industry sector, it will be for the good of the industry, the stakeholders comprising it and society
at large, if focused packaging solutions, taking into account sustainability concerns, are provided to meet the
sector’s needs. This will not only bring about cost savings but will likewise be good for the environment