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TAIWAN BASED LISWATI DEVELOPS ‘GREEN’ PAPER

By KWANELE DHLADHLA | 2021-01-13

A Liswati-based student in the Republic of China on Taiwan has developed an environmentally friendly premium grade copier paper. Five Star Group Africa (Pty) Ltd, a 100 per cent Eswatini owned company, Director Njabulo Zulu explained that the 40 per cent eco-fibers are used instead of pulp from planted forests, reducing the use of trees by up to 40 per cent. He mentioned that the white papers are smooth and thick, allowing for double-sided printing. Another advantage of the paper according to Zulu was that it helps protects the eyes. He mentioned that some paper was too white to the extent that some people with visual defects cannot read if there is too much light. “Our paper manufacturing process includes a special formula, thus making our paper green & ozone friendly. We love the environment,” Zulu disclosed. The third year Business Administration student at the Ming Dao University stated that they intend to offer a comprehensive stationery solution to clients both cooperates and private individuals in Eswatini. “We seek to extend our services and coverage to the sub- Sahara Africa and the whole continent,” said Zulu. The entrepreneur explained that Five Star Group Africa (PTY) LTD is an international company which is currently functioning and developing from Taiwan. The company offers provides affordable supply of A4 paper white and all other colours. Zulu mentioned that in December he met with the Ambassador of Eswatini in the Republic of China on Taiwan Thamie Dlamini to introduce the business venture where they will work in partnership with Chung Hwa Pulp Corporation. The student said he was also grateful for the support received from Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA). Unpacking future plans for the business, Zulu disclosed that over the next two years they intend to open their production plant in the kingdom in order to achieve their objective of being a leader in the stationery industry across the African content. “Setting up a production plant in Eswatini would really makes thing easy for us,” said Zulu. He also pointed out that they were currently in talks with a number of distributors in Eswatini (stationery shops, suppliers) and neighbouring countries. “As a young entrepreneur, I have seen an opportunity here in Taiwan and I have developed this business for a year. Within this short space of time, I have been able to partner with a paper company which has been really supportive in the production of Five Star Paper. The paper will be available in March,” added Zulu. CHP, the company whom Zulu said he has been supportive, integrates forestation and pulp/paper manufacturing industries to explore new applications of paper based materials as a sustainable green choice to meet the needs of our daily lives. It is expected to create a new era in the papermaking industry of ‘vertical integration, green environmental protection, and innovative technology development.’ The company is committed to uphold the four principles of ‘maximising material utilisation’, ‘bridging traditional and new technologies’, ‘diversifying product portfolio’, and ‘ecological restoration and education’ as part of its sustainable development mission.

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