Unleashing Innovation: Cassio Simoes Discusses Tetra Pak’s Commitment to Sustainability and Local Growth at Times Now Business Summit 2025

Tetra Pak, the Swedish giant in food packaging, is making waves in India as it ramps up its operations. With over 30 years in the country, Tetra Pak is all in on innovation, sustainability, and local production to meet the unique demands of Indian consumers.

At the Times Now Business Summit 2025, Cassio Simoes, Tetra Pak’s Managing Director for South Asia, shared the company’s journey. He highlighted how Tetra Pak transformed food packaging back in 1952 by introducing milk cartons, replacing glass bottles. He emphasized, "Innovation drives Tetra Pak, just as sustainability does."

Their main office is located in Chakan, Pune. This facility is Tetra Pak’s largest outside Sweden and focuses on creating packaging materials and food processing equipment tailored for India.

Why is India So Important?

India is now the fastest-growing market among the 160 countries where Tetra Pak operates. The company sees the need for affordable, innovative solutions, especially as the Indian market is very price-sensitive. For example, Tetra Pak has introduced a 150ml packaging option specifically for the Indian value segment, making products more accessible.

Tetra Pak has also installed over 11 high-speed packaging lines in India, producing an impressive 40,000 packs every hour. This efficiency helps them keep up with the booming food and beverage industry in the country.

Local Focus: ‘Bharat for Bharat’

Local production is a key part of Tetra Pak’s strategy. Currently, 85% of the food processing equipment used in India is made locally, and they plan to make it 100%. Simoes pointed out, "We are committed to increasing local manufacturing. This is Bharat’s moment."

To connect with local taste buds, their product team is developing beverages that cater to Indian flavors, including fig shakes and traditional orange lassi.

Sustainability Takes Center Stage

Tetra Pak is also stepping up its sustainability game. Following new regulations from India’s Ministry of Environment, starting in April 2025, food packaging is required to include at least 5% recycled material. This landmark regulation will make India the first country in the world to enforce such standards. Simoes believes this is a great opportunity for Tetra Pak to innovate further in packaging and recycling solutions.

Looking Ahead

The food and beverage sector in India is growing rapidly, and Tetra Pak is poised to expand further. With increased investments in research and development, the company aims to keep up with evolving consumer needs, all while supporting India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. Tetra Pak is set to influence the future of sustainable packaging and food processing technology in India.

For more information about India’s sustainability efforts and regulations, you can visit the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

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