About
COPAP is a privately owned global marketing and supply chain services company facilitating international trade across multiple industries. We provide tailored solutions and local expertise to companies of all sizes worldwide.
Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Montreal, COPAP delivers direct trading and marketing services in Forest Products, Petrochemicals, and Chemicals, supported by its Supply Chain Solutions division serving a broad range of industries engaged in global trade.
With a global presence in New York, São Paulo, Bogotá, Hong Kong, and Paris, COPAP has served over 1,000 companies across more than 100 countries.
COPAP IS WHERE THE WORLD COMES TO TRADE.
With deep insight into both sides of the global marketplace, COPAP connects industries, markets, and supply chains worldwide. We adapt quickly to changing market demands, delivering agile trade solutions, resilient supply chains, and seamless international collaboration across global markets.
Our History
1989
COPAP is founded as a pulp and paper trading company.
2007
COPAP launches its Supply Chain Solutions division, marking a new phase of business growth.
1991
COPAP expands into the forest products value chain through manufacturing and distribution.
2023
COPAP expands into the PVC market through partnerships with world-class global partners.
2003
COPAP enters the petrochemical industry.
2024
COPAP launches its Petrochemicals division under the leadership of Naveen Chandra.
Our Team
“The business world's forest might look deep but it is welcoming to those who embrace it. Finding that path is COPAP’S “raison d’être.” We enable mid-sized and large companies to access the world’s best supply chains. Over the past 30 years, we have built lasting partnerships by helping our customers and principals find the right path and we look forward to doing the same for you.”
David Sela, Founder & President
Advisory Board
1 / Benoit Daignault
Benoit Daignault is a distinguished leader with extensive experience in executive management, international finance, and insurance. As former President and CEO of Export Development Canada (EDC), he played a key role in advancing Canada’s export markets and strengthening international trade relationships during his tenure from February 2014 to February 2019.
Over more than 14 years at EDC, he held senior roles in business development, financing, and investments. Prior to EDC, he held leadership positions at GE Capital across Canada and the United States.
He currently serves as a Board Member at iA Financial Corporation and has previously served as a director of the Conference Board of Canada. His expertise in financial markets, insurance, and governance strengthens COPAP’S strategic direction and decision-making capabilities.
2 / Berry Wiersum
Berry Wiersum is an accomplished leader in the pulp and paper industry with a career spanning over four decades, culminating in his role as CEO of Sappi Europe S.A. from January 2007 until his retirement in March 2021. At Sappi, he led the company through significant transformation, with a strong focus on sustainability and expansion into specialty papers.
Prior to Sappi, he held senior leadership roles at ICI Fibres, Amoco Fabrics (Europe), Amoco Chemicals (Europe), Pechiney S.A. in France, and Kappa Packaging BV in the Netherlands. He also served as Chairman of the Confederation of European Paper Industries and was named RISI’s European CEO of the Year.
He continues to contribute to the industry as Head of Regulatory Affairs at Sappi Europe post-retirement. His expertise in business transformation and operational excellence strengthens COPAP’S strategic vision and industrial capabilities.
3 / Raphaël Palti
Raphaël Palti is the esteemed founder of Altavia, the world’s leading independent network dedicated to marketing services for the retail sector, established in 1983. He has been the driving force behind Altavia’s international expansion and its focus on sustainable solutions and evolving consumer trends.
Under his leadership, Altavia became the first communication group in Europe to achieve dual FSC® and PEFC™ certification. He was named “Communication Entrepreneur of the Year 2018”, recognizing his influence in the industry.
With an academic foundation from École Supérieure Libre des Sciences Commerciales Appliquées, he also serves on the board of Etam. His strategic and human-centered approach brings valuable perspective to COPAP’S advisory board, strengthening clarity, vision, and long-term direction.
4 / Jean-François Lambert
JF is the Founding Partner of Lambert Commodities, a consultancy specializing in commodity trade and structured finance. Drawing on more than 35 years of international experience, he advises clients across the global commodity ecosystem, including producers, traders, banks, and investors.
Previously, JF served as Managing Director and Global Head of Commodity and Structured Trade Finance at HSBC Group, where he led the expansion of the platform across more than 15 countries and built a team of over 160 specialists. Earlier at HSBC, he held senior leadership roles including Global Head of Structured Trade Finance, Global Head of Trade and Supply Chain Business Development, and Head of Eurozone Trade Services.
JF began his international banking career at Crédit Commercial de France, holding senior positions across France, Greece, and Asia, including seven years as General Manager of the Hong Kong Branch.
A recognized voice in commodity markets and trade finance, he holds a Master’s degree in Finance from Université Paris IX Dauphine and has taught Commodity Market Dynamics at Sciences Po for ten years. His expertise in international finance, structured trade, and global supply chains brings valuable insight to COPAP’S advisory board, strengthening its strategic vision and industry capabilities.