Between Digital and Essential: How Oji Papers Redefines Paper in the Modern Economy

By Ricardo Honório – EnergyChannel

In an increasingly digital world where transactions occur in seconds and information flows in real time there remains a silent infrastructure sustaining essential economic operations: paper.

Between Digital and Essential: How Oji Papers Redefines Paper in the Modern Economy

Present in receipts, labels, tickets, and traceability systems, this often invisible element remains strategic and far from disappearing.

It is within this context that Oji Papers positions itself as one of the global leaders in specialty paper solutions, bridging the physical and digital worlds.

In an interview with EnergyChannel, Thiago Matos, Commercial Director at Oji Papers, explains how the company views its role in the economy, the impacts of digitalization, and the trends shaping the sector’s future.

Between Digital and Essential: How Oji Papers Redefines Paper in the Modern Economy

An Invisible Yet Essential Presence

Although often unnoticed by end consumers, Oji’s products are part of the daily lives of millions.

“Our products are present in people’s everyday lives—in receipts, fiscal coupons, card payment slips, parking tickets, logistics labels, among many other applications,” says Matos. “People use our products every day, even without realizing they are produced by Oji.”

More than just a commodity, paper plays a strategic role within production chains.

“We position ourselves as facilitators of information,” he explains. “Thermal paper, for example, is an ally of technology and automation, enabling information to be delivered quickly, securely, and efficiently.”

Digitalization: Threat or Opportunity?

The rise of digital technologies often raises questions about the future of paper. But in Oji’s view, reality is more nuanced and balanced.

Between Digital and Essential: How Oji Papers Redefines Paper in the Modern Economy

“Digitalization has both substitution and demand-driving effects,” says Matos.

He acknowledges that paper is losing space in some applications.

“Today, we already see receipts being sent directly to smartphones. That’s part of the natural evolution of the market.”

However, new technologies also create new demand.

“Self-service kiosks are a clear example. Customers place orders digitally but still receive a physical ticket. The same applies to e-commerce, which heavily relies on labels for identification and logistics.”

In practice, paper and technology move forward together.

“They are not competitors. They are complementary,” he summarizes.

The Direct Impact of E-commerce

If there is one major driver in recent years, it is e-commerce.

“The growth of e-commerce has significantly increased demand for identification and traceability solutions,” explains Matos. “Every product must be labeled, tracked, and delivered accurately.”

In this context, thermal paper gains relevance due to its technical characteristics.

“Thermal printing eliminates the need for ink, cartridges, or ribbons. The image is generated through a chemical reaction to heat,” he says. “This reduces costs, increases printing speed, and ensures high-quality barcodes and QR codes.”

Beyond operational gains, there are also environmental benefits.

“We eliminate additional inputs, which reduces waste and simplifies operations.”

Sustainability as a Strategic Pillar

In a global industry under environmental pressure, sustainability is no longer a differentiator it is a requirement.

At Oji, this commitment begins at the source of raw materials.

“100% of the pulp we use is FSC-certified, ensuring it comes from responsibly managed planted forests,” highlights Matos.

Thermal technology itself contributes to this effort.

“By eliminating inks and other inputs, thermal paper reduces waste generation.”

But the strategy goes further.

“We are investing in the development of paper for flexible packaging, aiming to replace less sustainable materials such as certain plastics.”

Global Strength, Local Innovation

As part of an international group, Oji combines global presence with local operations—an important advantage in a competitive market.

“We have a research and development center in Japan that works closely with our team in Brazil,” explains Matos. “We even have expatriate professionals working in Piracicaba.”

This integration accelerates innovation.

“We have access to technologies, laboratories, and methodologies that strengthen our ability to develop new products.”

Additionally, global presence enhances commercial competitiveness.

“We operate in markets such as Japan, the United States, Germany, and Thailand, and export to North America, Europe, and Africa.”

The Challenge of Global Competitiveness

Despite opportunities, the sector faces significant pressures.

“Global competition has increased considerably, especially with the expansion of production capacity in China,” says Matos.

This scenario demands efficiency.

“We must pursue cost reduction, productivity gains, and operational excellence to remain competitive.”

In innovation, the challenge is even more complex.

“The key is balancing technical performance with economic viability. Not every technically perfect solution is market competitive.”

The Future: Balancing Cost and Sustainability

Looking ahead, Oji sees sustainability as an irreversible trend—with a decisive factor: cost.

“The market seeks sustainable and recyclable solutions, but price remains critical, especially in Latin America,” explains Matos.

The challenge is clear.

“We must develop alternatives that deliver environmental benefits without compromising economic viability.”

To achieve this, the company is investing in innovation.

“We have R&D teams in Brazil and Japan working together to create solutions that combine technology, sustainability, and competitiveness.”

Conclusion

In an increasingly digital world, paper has not disappeared—it has evolved.

And it will likely continue to play an essential role in the machinery of the global economy.

For Thiago Matos, this transformation is not a dispute between physical and digital, but a convergence.

“Paper remains a fundamental element for communication, traceability, and process efficiency,” he concludes. “The future is not about substitution, but integration.”

Between Digital and Essential: How Oji Papers Redefines Paper in the Modern Economy