The entropy production for the paper drying process was derived for a newsprint paper drying machine located at Norske Skog ASA in Skogn, Norway. The entropy production of the total process was calculated for actual operating conditions (i.e. reference conditions) and then optimised subject to a defined outlet paper moisture content (i.e. 0.07 kg H2O per kg dry paper). Inlet air humidity and cylinder group conditions were varied. Optimum conditions were obtained for a range of inlet air humidities, and for different cylinder groupings. We found that it was very favourable to increase the inlet air humidity. The realisation of such a change is probably hampered by unwanted condensation. Other changes had a negligible effect on the entropy production.