Global Paper Bags Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

Global Paper Bags Market Outlook

The global paper bags market size was valued at USD 5.51 billion in 2023. The market is further projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.40% between 2024 and 2032, reaching a value of USD 8.85 billion by 2032.

Key Takeaways

• According to the American Forest & Paper Association, total packaging papers and speciality packaging shipments saw an increase of 3% in October 2023 compared to the previous year.

• India exported USD 3179.24 million of paper, paperboard, and newsprint in 2021-22, a 63% growth from previous year.

• 72% of Europeans prefer environmentally friendly packaging, and 53% consider plastic waste as one of their top three concerns.

Paper bags have become indispensable for consumers worldwide. The increasing awareness around plastic pollution has resulted in people and governments taking proactive steps to replace plastic bags with paper bags. Made from wood pulp and recycled materials such as jute, cotton, and canvas, among other materials, paper bags provide an environmentally friendly alternative for carrying and storing various kinds of goods.

The paper bags market development is driven by several factors, including rising demand for shopping and food packaging, rising public concern for marine animals and the environment, proliferation of personalised branding strategies, government initiatives and incentives, and the advancement of manufacturing technology.

Key Trends and Development

Rapid lifestyle changes, environmental concerns, and growth in the retail sector are fuelling the paper bags market growth.

Global Paper Bags Market Trends

The advancement of manufacturing technology has led to significant improvements in the quality, design, and durability of paper bags. Modern manufacturing techniques allow for sturdy paper bags capable of carrying heavier items without breakage. Improvements in design technology have also led to paper bags being used for luxury packaging and personalised branding. There are ongoing developments around more sustainable production of paper bags which is also driving paper bags market growth. In September 2023, the Danish toy-making company, Lego , announced that it is on track to replacing its plastic packaging with recyclable, sustainably sourced bags certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Furthermore, paper bags market development is heavily influenced by governments implementing strict standards around plastic, owing to environmental concerns. New Zealand,  for instance, completely banned plastic bags used for fresh produce in its supermarkets . This will positively affect the global market for paper bags. In 2022, the UN Environmental Assembly created the Intragovernmental Negotiating Committee to address every aspect of plastic pollution. Nearly 78 countries  in the world have banned plastic, contributing to paper bags market growth.

Market Segmentation

Global Paper Bags Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032 offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments.

Sewn open mouth bags have the largest paper bags market share owing to their convenience and resilience

Sewn open mouth paper bags are made from kraft paper and have a sewn top that allows for closure after filling. These bags are versatile and resilient and are used extensively in the agriculture industry for packaging animal feed, chemicals, and many more things. Their design also makes them convenient for packaging powders and granular materials. They also offer ease of handling and  customisation, which contribute further to their increased demand.

As per the paper bags market report, pinched bottom open mouth bags are used in the food packaging industry. The bottom of these bags is pinched together, and heat sealed, providing a strong, leak-proof base ideal for packaging flour, spices, and confectionery items.

Flat bottom bags, or block bottom bags, can stand upright owing to their design, which allows for retail display. They can be equipped with additional features like zip locks, increasing their functionality. They are typically used for consumer goods like coffee, tea, snacks, pet foods, and more.

Brown kraft bags dominate the global paper bags market owing to their application in multiple industries

Brown kraft bags are manufactured using minimal processing, which leaves them sturdy, resilient, and durable. They retain the strength of the composite wood fibres and are tear resistant. The application of brown kraft bags is prevalent in industries like agriculture, construction, grocery, retail, among others., where durability is the primary requirement.

White kraft bags are used mostly for branding and presentation purposes. They are made from bleached kraft paper, which gives them a crisp, white appearance. They are used in industries where aesthetics is key, like fashion, boutiques, and luxury goods.

2 ply paper bags lead the market due to their reliability and affordability

As per paper bags market analysis, 2 ply paper bags are the most popular in the due to their enhanced durability and versatility, better printability for branding, and moderate cost. They are the go-to for businesses that need reliable yet economical packaging solutions.

1 ply paper bags, on the other hand, are lightweight, used for carrying non-bulky items. They are used for short-term applications, like carrying pharmacy items, groceries, fast food, and so on. More than 3 ply packaging is used for heavy-duty applications, like packaging building materials, chemicals, animal feeds, etc.

Competitive Landscape

The key players in the paper bags market are adopting to government regulations and focusing on collaboration, innovation, and product development to gain competitive edge.

The other key players in the paper bags market include Mondi plc, Smurfit Kappa Group, ProAmpac Intermediate, Inc, American Packaging Corporation, Anchor Packaging, LLC, and DS Smith plc, among others.

Global Paper Bags Market Analysis by Region

Asia Pacific leads the paper bags market share due to rapid economic growth

The Asia Pacific is the largest region due to economic development and a growing retail sector. Increased environmental awareness has also contributed to the paper bags market growth in the region. The increasing urbanisation and large populations, which add to the high demand for paper bags, also support the demand for paper bags, especially in the retail and food packaging sectors. In 2022, India  became one of the first countries to ban single-use plastic.

In North America, stringent government regulations and increased public awareness have led to the adoption of paper bags, driving market growth. The region also boasts of better production technologies, which contributes to the development of the market. The United States called for federal agencies to reduce and ultimately phase out single-use plastic in 2022.

Europe has also implemented environmental regulations that support the adoption of paper bags. The presence of a well-developed retail and e-commerce sector has also contributed to the demand of paper bags in the region.

Key Highlights of the Report