Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging Market Analysis APAC - Size and Forecast 2024-2028

APAC Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging Market Size 2024-2028

The APAC paper and paperboard container and packaging market size is valued to increase USD 21.3 billion, at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2028. Increased adoption of retail-ready packaging will drive the APAC paper and paperboard container and packaging market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

• By Product - Paper bags and sacks segment was valued at USD 26.20 billion in 2022
• By End-user - Food and beverages segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2022

Market Size & Forecast

• Market Opportunities: USD 38.62 billion
• Market Future Opportunities: USD 21.30 billion
• CAGR from 2023 to 2028 : 4.2%

Market Summary

• The market continues to evolve, driven by the increasing adoption of retail-ready packaging solutions and the integration of advanced technologies such as QR codes. According to a recent study, the market accounted for over 40% of the global market share in 2020. This trend is expected to continue as businesses in the region seek more sustainable and cost-effective packaging options. However, the market also faces challenges, including the limited durability of paper bags and the need for regulatory compliance.
• Despite these hurdles, opportunities abound, particularly in the areas of e-commerce and food packaging, where the demand for convenient and safe solutions is on the rise.

What will be the Size of the APAC Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging Market during the forecast period?

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How is the Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging in APAC Market Segmented and what are the key trends of market segmentation?

The paper and paperboard container and packaging in APAC industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

• Product
  • Paper bags and sacks
  • Corrugated containers and packaging
  • Folding boxes and cases
  • Others
• End-user
  • Food and beverages
  • Industrial products
  • Healthcare
  • Others
• Geography
  • APAC
    • China
    • India
    • Japan

By Product Insights

The paper bags and sacks segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is a continually evolving industry, with ongoing activities and trends shaping its landscape. Paper containers, such as food-grade paperboard, are widely used in various sectors, including food and beverage and construction, due to their cost-effectiveness, versatility, and environmental sustainability. Paper containers come in various dimensions and designs, catering to diverse consumer packaging trends. Containerboard production is a significant aspect of the industry, with advancements in packaging design software enabling high-speed packaging lines and the integration of flexible packaging materials. Consumer preferences for product protection strategies and packaging regulations compliance are driving the market's growth.

Paper packaging solutions, such as transport packaging design, offer superior barrier coatings properties and durability, ensuring product protection during transit. The packaging supply chain is streamlined through paper packaging machinery, which facilitates efficient production and material handling. Recycled paper content and packaging sustainability metrics are increasingly important, with paper recycling technologies and fiber-based packaging reducing waste and promoting eco-friendliness. E-commerce packaging needs are also addressed through custom packaging solutions, logistics and distribution, and quality control measures. Paper strength testing and packaging material sourcing ensure the industry's continued growth and competitiveness. The APAC Paper and Paperboard Container and Packaging Market is a dynamic and innovative sector, adapting to evolving consumer demands and regulatory requirements.

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The Paper bags and sacks segment was valued at USD 26.20 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

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Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

The market is a significant and dynamic industry, characterized by continuous innovation and adaptation to meet evolving consumer demands and market trends. One crucial aspect of this market is the optimization of paperboard strength through advanced coating technologies. This enhancement not only improves product protection but also reduces the need for excessive material usage, contributing to sustainability efforts. Another essential focus area is the design of corrugated boxes, which is undergoing a transformation to ensure efficient product protection and minimal waste. Sustainable paper sourcing strategies are increasingly gaining importance, with companies prioritizing renewable raw materials and responsible forest management.

The packaging material costs, influenced by factors like humidity and ink, are subject to rigorous analysis to ensure cost-effectiveness and recyclability. Automated packaging systems are being evaluated for their potential to streamline processes and improve overall efficiency. The effects of humidity on packaging integrity are a critical concern, necessitating the development of testing methods for paperboard durability. Proper packaging design is essential for ensuring product safety and shelf life, with an emphasis on designing for efficient material utilization and minimizing packaging waste. Improving the sustainability of packaging is a key priority, with strategies ranging from implementing a sustainable packaging policy to designing for efficient material utilization and recycling methods for paperboard packaging.

The impact of storage on packaging shelf life is another critical factor, with companies exploring cost-effective sustainable packaging options to minimize environmental footprint and enhance brand reputation. Measuring the efficiency of packaging lines and improving the durability of paperboard containers are ongoing challenges, with a growing emphasis on minimizing waste and maximizing productivity. The importance of these initiatives is underscored by the fact that more than 70% of new product developments in the APAC market focus on sustainability and efficiency, according to market intelligence. This trend is expected to continue, as businesses seek to differentiate themselves in a competitive market while addressing evolving consumer preferences.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise in the adoption of Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging in APAC Industry?

• The significant rise in the implementation of retail-ready packaging is the primary factor fueling market growth. 

• Shelf-ready packaging (SRP) and retail-ready packaging (RRP) have revolutionized the way goods are transferred from cases to shelves in various industries. While SRP initially focused on simplifying the process of replenishing retail shelves, RRP expanded its scope to encompass the entire supply chain. SRP and RRP streamline the movement of goods by enabling a seamless transition from cases to shelves, reducing manual labor and potential errors. SRP's impact on retail outlets is significant, ensuring a consistent and presentable display of products. RRP, on the other hand, considers the broader implications, including supply chain efficiency and customer feedback. The adoption of SRP and RRP has gained momentum across sectors, with numerous benefits.
• For instance, SRP reduces labor costs and time spent on manual unloading and repackaging, while RRP optimizes inventory management and stock rotation. Moreover, these packaging methods enhance brand visibility and product identification, contributing to improved sales and customer satisfaction. In conclusion, SRP and RRP have transformed the way goods are handled and displayed in the supply chain, offering numerous advantages in terms of efficiency, cost savings, and customer experience. Their continuous evolution reflects the dynamic nature of the market, adapting to the ever-changing demands of various industries.

What are the market trends shaping the Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging in APAC Industry?

• The use of QR codes with packaging is an emerging market trend. This technological innovation enhances convenience for consumers by enabling quick access to product information.

• QR codes have emerged as a valuable marketing tool, particularly for paper and paperboard containers and packaging. These codes enable consumers to access instant information about products through a simple scan, enhancing engagement and convenience. The versatility of QR codes extends to various industries, with primary packaging being a notable application. In primary packaging, the container itself holds the product, and QR codes can be integrated to offer additional product details, promotions, or customer support.
• The adoption of QR codes in paper and paperboard containers and packaging continues to expand, reflecting the evolving market landscape and consumer preferences. The integration of these codes offers a seamless and interactive experience, bridging the gap between physical and digital touchpoints.

What challenges does the Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging in APAC Industry face during its growth?

• The limited durability of paper bags poses a significant challenge to the expansion and growth of the industry. 

• In the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging, paper bags have gained traction due to the increasing ban on single-use plastic bags. However, their application in industries like food and beverage faces challenges. The fragility of paper bags is a significant concern, as they cannot support the weight of food items in most cases. Moreover, they are unsuitable for packaging liquid food products, leading to potential food wastage and spillage. According to recent industry data, paper bags accounted for over 13% of food wastage in restaurants in Pune, India, in June 2022.
• To address these concerns, advancements in paper bag technology are underway, focusing on enhancing durability and water resistance. These innovations could potentially expand the market scope of paper bags, making them a more viable alternative to plastic in various sectors.

Exclusive Customer Landscape

The APAC paper and paperboard container and packaging market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the APAC paper and paperboard container and packaging market report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.

 Customer Landscape of Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging in APAC Industry

Competitive Landscape & Market Insights

Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, APAC paper and paperboard container and packaging market forecast, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the industry.

Amcor Plc - This company specializes in providing innovative paper and paperboard container and packaging solutions, including AmFoil and AmFiber, enhancing sustainability and functionality for various industries.

The industry research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:

• Amcor Plc
• C and H Paperbox Thailand Co. Ltd.
• Continental Packaging Thailand Co. Ltd.
• Graphic Packaging Holding Co.
• Hong Thai Packaging Co. Ltd.
• Huhtamaki Oyj
• International Paper Co.
• Mondi Plc
• Nine Dragons Paper Holdings Ltd.
• Nippon Paper Industries Co. Ltd.
• Oji Holdings Corp.
• Rengo Co. Ltd.
• Sarnti Packaging Co. Ltd.
• SCG Packaging
• Shandong Sun Holdings Group
• Tetra Pak International SA
• Toyo Seikan Group Holdings Ltd.
• WestRock Co.
• Xiamen Hexing Packaging and Printing Co. Ltd.
• Zijiang Holdings

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key industry players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

Recent Development and News in Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging Market In APAC

• In January 2024, Amcor, a global packaging company, announced the expansion of its paper-based packaging facility in India. This expansion aimed to increase the production capacity of paper-based packaging by 40%, catering to the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions in the APAC region (Amcor Press Release).
• In March 2024, Smurfit Kappa, a leading European paper packaging company, entered into a strategic partnership with a Chinese paper mill, Guangxi Beidou Paper Co. Ltd. This collaboration aimed to strengthen Smurfit Kappa's presence in the Chinese market and improve its access to high-quality paper raw materials (Smurfit Kappa Press Release).
• In May 2024, DS Smith, a leading packaging solutions provider, completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Shenzhen Yucai Packaging Co. Ltd., a Chinese paper packaging manufacturer. This acquisition expanded DS Smith's presence in the Chinese market and provided it with a stronger local manufacturing base (DS Smith Press Release).
• In April 2025, the Indian government announced the National Packaging Policy, which included incentives for the production and use of eco-friendly packaging. This policy is expected to boost the demand for paper and paperboard containers and packaging in the country (India Brand Equity Foundation Press Release).

Dive into Technavio's robust research methodology, blending expert interviews, extensive data synthesis, and validated models for unparalleled APAC Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging Market insights. See full methodology.

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Research Analyst Overview

• In the dynamic and evolving APAC paper and paperboard container and packaging market, food-grade paperboard continues to gain traction as a preferred material for various consumer packaging applications. Paper container dimensions vary, with custom solutions available to cater to diverse product sizes and shapes. Paperboard container design incorporates advanced features, such as barrier coatings, to ensure product protection and compliance with packaging regulations. Containerboard production in the region is on the rise, driven by the increasing demand for e-commerce packaging and flexible packaging materials. Packaging design software and high-speed packaging lines enable efficient production and customization, catering to the diverse needs of consumers.
• Transport packaging design focuses on optimizing durability and sustainability, with recycled paper content and paper recycling technologies playing crucial roles. Folding carton manufacturing and paper packaging machinery are essential components of the packaging supply chain, ensuring seamless production and delivery. Packaging material handling and waste management are critical considerations, with a growing emphasis on packaging waste reduction and sustainability metrics. Product protection strategies are evolving, with an increasing focus on paper strength testing and quality control measures. Consumer packaging trends, such as the shift towards fiber-based packaging and packaging automation systems, are shaping the market. Barrier coatings properties and packaging material sourcing are essential factors in ensuring the competitiveness of packaging solutions.
• Logistics and distribution are becoming increasingly complex, with a need for efficient and cost-effective solutions. In summary, the APAC paper and paperboard container and packaging market is characterized by continuous innovation and evolving patterns. From food-grade paperboard and container design to production, logistics, and sustainability, the market offers a wealth of opportunities for businesses seeking to stay competitive in the ever-changing landscape.

What are the Key Data Covered in this APAC Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging Market Research and Growth Report?

• What is the expected growth of the APAC Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging Market between 2024 and 2028?

  • USD 21.3 billion, at a CAGR of 4.2%

• What segmentation does the market report cover?

  • The report segmented by Product (Paper bags and sacks, Corrugated containers and packaging, Folding boxes and cases, and Others), End-user (Food and beverages, Industrial products, Healthcare, and Others), and Geography (APAC)

• Which regions are analyzed in the report?

  • APAC

• What are the key growth drivers and market challenges?

  • Increased adoption of retail-ready packaging, Limited durability of paper bags

• Who are the major players in the Paper And Paperboard Container And Packaging Market in APAC?

  • Key Companies Amcor Plc, C and H Paperbox Thailand Co. Ltd., Continental Packaging Thailand Co. Ltd., Graphic Packaging Holding Co., Hong Thai Packaging Co. Ltd., Huhtamaki Oyj, International Paper Co., Mondi Plc, Nine Dragons Paper Holdings Ltd., Nippon Paper Industries Co. Ltd., Oji Holdings Corp., Rengo Co. Ltd., Sarnti Packaging Co. Ltd., SCG Packaging, Shandong Sun Holdings Group, Tetra Pak International SA, Toyo Seikan Group Holdings Ltd., WestRock Co., Xiamen Hexing Packaging and Printing Co. Ltd., and Zijiang Holdings

Market Research Insights

• The market is a dynamic and evolving industry, characterized by ongoing innovation and improvement. Two key areas of focus include container stacking optimization and paperboard composite structures. For instance, coating weight optimization can enhance container stacking strength, while paperboard composite structures offer increased durability and efficiency. In terms of numerical data points, paperboard container manufacturers in APAC produce approximately 50 million tons of paperboard annually, with a significant portion dedicated to packaging applications. Meanwhile, the adoption of digital printing technologies has led to a 15% reduction in ink adhesion performance issues, resulting in cost savings for businesses.
• These advancements underscore the industry's commitment to packaging performance analysis, efficient processes, and sustainable sourcing practices. Additionally, the integration of packaging automation features and flexible packaging solutions has streamlined production lines, contributing to increased line efficiency.

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