Paper is a fundamental commodity used in a wide range of applications, from daily office tasks and academic work to professional printing and art. In Bangladesh, a robust local paper industry, alongside a market for imported brands, ensures that there is a vast selection of paper types for every need and budget. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the different types of paper, their common uses, and the average paper price in Bangladesh.

1. Common Types of Paper

Paper is primarily categorized by its size, weight (GSM), and finish.

A. By Size

• A4 Paper: The most common paper size for printing and photocopying in Bangladesh, measuring 210 x 297 mm. It is a staple in offices, schools, and homes.
• Legal Size Paper: Slightly longer than A4, this size is typically used for official legal documents and formal agreements.
• A3 Paper: Used for larger documents, presentations, and posters, A3 paper is twice the size of A4.
• Bond Paper: This high-quality, durable paper is often used for official letterheads, reports, and formal correspondence.

B. By Weight (GSM)

GSM stands for Grams per Square Meter, a measure of a paper's thickness and quality.

• 65-70 GSM: Very lightweight, often used for bulk printing, drafts, and internal documents to save on cost.
• 80 GSM: This is the standard weight for most photocopier and printer paper. It is versatile, high-quality, and widely used for general office and academic purposes.
• 100-120 GSM: Thicker and more durable, this paper is used for formal documents, presentations, certificates, and brochures.
• Cardstock (150+ GSM): Much heavier than regular paper, cardstock is used for business cards, greeting cards, and covers.

C. By Finish and Use

• Matte Paper: A non-reflective, smooth paper ideal for professional presentations and for printing text with a clean, crisp look.
• Glossy Photo Paper: This shiny, coated paper is specifically designed for printing high-resolution photographs, providing vibrant colors and sharp details.
• Sticker Paper: Adhesive-backed paper used for creating labels, stickers, and signs.
• Colored Paper: Available in a spectrum of colors for use in art, crafts, presentations, and organizational filing.

2. Paper Price in Bangladesh

The price of paper can vary based on the brand, size, GSM, and whether you are buying a single rim or in bulk. A rim of paper typically contains 500 sheets.

• A4 (80 GSM) Paper Rim: This is the most popular product. A rim of A4 paper from local brands like Bashundhara or Sonali can cost between ৳450 and ৳550. Imported or premium brands like Double A are generally more expensive, with a rim costing around ৳700 to ৳800.
• A4 (70 GSM) Paper Rim: A lighter-weight option that is slightly more affordable, with prices ranging from ৳400 to ৳500 for a rim.
• Legal Size (80 GSM) Paper Rim: Due to its larger size, legal paper is priced higher, with a rim costing from ৳500 to ৳900.
• Specialty Paper: Prices for specialty paper like glossy photo paper or cardstock vary significantly. A pack of 20 sheets of A4 glossy photo paper can cost between ৳150 and ৳500, depending on the brand and quality.