세계의 경질 플라스틱 포장 시장 규모는 2024년에 2,506억 달러에 달했습니다. IMARC Group은 향후 2033년까지 3,587억 달러에 이를 전망이며, 2025-2033년 4.1%의 연평균 복합 성장률(CAGR)을 보일 것으로 예측했습니다. 현재 아시아태평양 지역이 시장을 독점하고 있으며 2024년에는 39.7%가 넘는 큰 시장 점유율을 차지했습니다. 제품의 안전성 및 유통기한 연장에 대한 주요 기업들의 관심 고조와 지속가능한 포장 솔루션에 대한 선호도 상승이 아태지역 시장을 자극하고 있습니다.
세계의 경질 플라스틱 포장 시장은 식품, 헬스케어, 퍼스널케어 등 다양한 업계에서 내구성이 뛰어나고 경량 포장 솔루션에 대한 수요가 높아짐에 따라 견인되고 있습니다. 전자상거래 및 세계 무역의 확대도 안전한 제품 배송을 보장하는 경질 플라스틱 포장의 수요를 끌어올리고 있습니다. IMARC Group이 발행한 보고서에 따르면 세계 전자상거래 시장 규모는 2024년 26조 8000억 달러에 달했고, 2033년 214조 5000억 달러에 이를 것으로 예측되며, 2025-2033년 CAGR 25.83%로 성장할 전망입니다. 게다가 사출 성형이나 열 성형 등의 플라스틱 제조 기술의 진보가, 설계의 유연성과 생산 효율을 높이고 있습니다. 이에 더해, 경질 플라스틱의 재활용 가능성은, 지속 가능한 포장 솔루션 중시의 고조와 일치하고 있어, 시장의 성장을 한층 더 촉진하고 있습니다.
미국은 경질 플라스틱 포장의 주요 지역 시장으로 떠오르고 있으며, 식품, 헬스케어, 퍼스널케어 등의 업계 전반에 걸쳐, 경량으로 내구성이 있으며, 비용 효율적인 포장에 대한 수요가 높아지고 있는 것이 그 요인입니다. 여기에 전자상거래 분야 확대 및 온라인 배송용 안전하고 내구성 있는 포장에 대한 수요 증대가 시장 성장을 더욱 뒷받침하고 있습니다. IMARC Group에 따르면 미국의 전자상거래 시장은 2032년까지 2조 839억7000만 달러에 이를 것으로 전망되며 2024-2032년 CAGR 6.80%로 성장이 전망됩니다. 이 외, 사출 성형이나 블로우 성형 등의 제조 프로세스의 기술적 진보에 의해, 생산 효율과 설계의 유연성이 향상되고 있습니다.
지속 가능한 포장 솔루션 도입
소비자 환경 의식의 고조는 제조업체에 재활용 가능한 소재나 생분해성 소재의 채용을 촉구해, 시장을 뒷받침하고 있습니다. 또한, 정부 기관이나 업계 각사는 플라스틱 폐기물을 최소한으로 억제하는 것을 중시해, 환경에 대한 영향이 적은 소재의 사용을 촉진하고 있습니다 이 외에도 유명한 기업은 버진 재료에 대한 의존성을 최소화하고 폐기물을 매립지에서 우회하기 위해 산업 폐기물 및 소비자 재사용(PCR) 후 플라스틱을 사용하여 경질 플라스틱 포장에 재활용 컨텐츠를 널리 도입했습니다. 이에 따라 암코어는 2024년 2월, 몬델리즈 인터내셔널의 자회사인 캐드버리 호주와 약 1,000톤의 소비자 재생(PCR) 플라스틱을 공급해 이 회사의 주력 초콜릿 제품 시리즈를 포장하는 계열 약을 체결했습니다. 이와는 별도로 생분해성 플라스틱과 퇴비화가능 플라스틱의 수많은 진보가 환경에 배려한 패키징 솔루션 수요를 높여 가고 있어 경질 플라스틱 포장 시장 전망이 밝아지고 있습니다.
편의성에 대한 수요 증가
세계 많은 사람들이 제품의 품질을 유지하고 휴대가 가능한 포장을 요구하고 있습니다. 경질 플라스틱 포장이 제공하는 내구성과 범용성으로 소비자의 편의성을 위한 바람직한 선택지가 되고 있습니다. 또한 스크류 캡이나 플립 탑 등의 리시라블 클로져는 조미료, 음료, 퍼스널케어 아이템 등 다양한 제품의 경질 플라스틱 용기에서 볼 수 있습니다. 이러한 클로저는 제품의 신선도를 유지하고 쏟아지는 것을 방지하는 데 도움이 되며, 그에 따라 포장된 상품의 유통 기한을 늘릴 수 있습니다. 예를 들어 2024년 4월 길린 그룹 신선식품 사업 부문은 제품 품질에 타협하지 않고 소비자에게 편의를 제공하는 혁신적인 rPET, 카톤, 하이브리드 솔루션을 출시했습니다. 이에 따라 경질 플라스틱 컵, 파우치, 병 등 휴대 가능한 포장 형태의 인기가 높아지고 있어 경질 플라스틱 포장 시장의 수요를 더욱 자극하고 있습니다.
스마트 포장 도입
경질 플라스틱 포장은 스마트 패키징 솔루션의 도입과 개발에 필수적입니다. 또한 스마트 패키징 솔루션은 증강현실(AR) 기능과 스마트폰 앱으로 액세스할 수 있는 개인화된 컨텐츠와 같은 대화형 경험을 가능하게 하고, 소비자의 참여도를 높여 브랜드 로열티를 높입니다. 최근 조사에 따르면 소비자의 74%가 충성심을 자극하는 제품의 품질, 66%가 가격에 맞는 가치, 56%가 고객 서비스를 꼽고 있습니다. 이와 별도로 연구개발(R&D) 활동에 대한 대규모 투자가 경질 플라스틱 포장 시장의 수익을 더욱 끌어올리고 있습니다. 그 결과, 이러한 기술 혁신은 향후 몇 년간 시장을 강화할 것으로 예상됩니다.
The global rigid plastic packaging market size was valued at USD 250.6 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 358.7 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.1% during 2025-2033. Asia-Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 39.7% in 2024. The rising focus among key players on product safety and extended shelf life, along with the increasing preference for sustainable packaging solutions is stimulating the market across Asia Pacific.
The global rigid plastic packaging market is driven by the increasing demand for durable and lightweight packaging solutions across various industries, including food and beverages, healthcare, and personal care. The expansion of e-commerce and global trade is also boosting the demand for rigid plastic packaging to ensure safe product delivery. According to a report published by the IMARC Group, the global e-commerce market size reached USD 26.8 Trillion in 2024 and is forecasted to reach USD 214.5 Trillion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 25.83% during 2025-2033. In addition, advancements in plastic manufacturing technologies, such as injection molding and thermoforming, are enhancing design flexibility and production efficiency. Besides this, the recyclability of rigid plastics aligns with the rising emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions, further driving market growth.
The United States has emerged as a key regional market for rigid plastic packaging, driven by the increasing demand for lightweight, durable, and cost-effective packaging across industries such as food and beverages, healthcare, and personal care. Moreover, the expansion of the e-commerce sector and increasing demand for secure and durable packaging for online deliveries further support market growth. As per the IMARC Group, the United States e-commerce market is projected to reach USD 2,083.97 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.80% during 2024-2032. Other than this, technological advancements in manufacturing processes, such as injection molding and blow molding, are enhancing production efficiency and design flexibility.
Introduction of Sustainable Packaging Solutions
The rising consumer environmental consciousness is encouraging manufacturers to adopt recyclable and biodegradable materials, which is propelling the market. Moreover, government bodies and industry players are emphasizing on minimizing plastic waste, thereby promoting the usage of materials that have a lower impact on the environment. Besides this, prominent companies are widely incorporating recycled content into rigid plastic packaging, utilizing industrial scrap or post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics to minimize reliance on virgin materials and divert waste from landfills. In line with this, in February 2024, Amcor signed a deal with Cadbury Australia, a subsidiary of Mondelez International, to supply approximately 1,000 tons of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic to wrap the core chocolate product range of the company. Apart from this, numerous advancements in biodegradable and compostable plastics are elevating the demand for environmentally conscious packaging solutions, thereby creating a positive rigid plastic packaging market outlook.
Increasing Demand for Convenience
Numerous individuals worldwide are seeking packaging that preserves the quality of the product and offers portability. The durability and versatility provided by rigid plastic packaging make it a preferred choice for consumer convenience. Furthermore, resealable closures, such as screw caps or flip-tops, are found on rigid plastic containers for various products, including condiments, beverages, and personal care items. These closures aid in preserving product freshness and preventing spills, thereby extending the shelf life of packaged goods. For instance, in April 2024, Guillin Group's Fresh produce business unit launched innovative rPET, carton, and hybrid solutions that offer convenience to consumers without compromising on product quality. In line with this, the growing popularity of on-the-go packaging formats, such as cups, pouches, and bottles, made from rigid plastics is further stimulating the rigid plastic packaging market demand.
Introduction of Smart Packaging
Rigid plastic packaging is integral to the implementation and development of smart packaging solutions. Moreover, smart packaging solutions also enable interactive experiences, such as augmented reality (AR) features or personalized content accessible via smartphone apps, which improve consumer engagement and enhance brand loyalty. According to a recent survey, 74% of consumers mentioned product quality inspired loyalty, 66% value for money and 56% customer service. Apart from this, extensive investments in research and development (R&D) activities are further elevating the rigid plastic packaging market revenue. Consequently, these innovations are expected to bolster the market in the coming years.
Bottles and jars stand as the largest component in 2024, holding around 40.5% of the market. The rising focus of key players on branding and differentiation is primarily driving the growth in this segmentation. Moreover, bottles and jars offer product protection, visibility, and easy dispensing, thereby improving consumer convenience and maintaining product freshness. Besides this, manufacturers are prioritizing efficient packaging solutions, which is a significant growth-inducing factor. For instance, in January 2022, Ring Container Technologies, one of the manufacturers of plastic containers, launched a customizable PET solution for maintaining carbonation in beverages. Similarly, Vetroplas offers a wide range of high-quality packaging solutions, specializing in premium glass and plastic bottles and jars, with a prime focus on quality and sustainability.
Polypropylene (PP) leads the market with around 24.7% of market share in 2024. Rigid plastic packaging materials, particularly polypropylene (PP), are gaining extensive popularity as they exhibit exceptional properties, such as chemical resistance, high stiffness, and low density. As a result, PP finds widespread applications in producing durable and lightweight packaging solutions. Besides this, numerous innovations in the manufacturing process represent the rigid plastic packaging market's recent opportunities. For instance, in February 2024, Ravago and Repsol inaugurated the opening of a cutting-edge factory in Tangier, which is wholly devoted in producing polypropylene compounds, a critical material extensively adopted in the automotive sector. In addition to this, in March 2024, GEKA, one of Medmix's beauty brands, introduced a post-consumer-recycled (PCR) polypropylene (PP) material suitable for primary cosmetic packaging.
Extrusion accounts for the majority of the market share in 2024. Extrusion plays an important role in driving innovation and efficiency in the market. It enables the production of numerous packaging components, such as containers, bottles, and caps, with precision and consistency. Moreover, extrusion allows manufacturers to incorporate features such as handles or closures, create intricate designs, and optimize wall thickness for cost-effectiveness and durability. Continuous collaborations will continue to fuel the growth in this segmentation over the forecasted period. For instance, in October 2023, Davis-Standard, LLC (Davis-Standard), a global leader in extrusion equipment, acquired the Extrusion Technology Group (ETG) from entities controlled by the Dutch Investor Nimbus.
Food and beverages represent the leading segment with around 35.7% of market share in 2024. The escalating demand for functional and durable packaging solutions is primarily augmenting the rigid plastic packaging market's recent price across the food and beverage industry. Additionally, prominent players are using sustainable packaging materials across the sector. For instance, in November 2023, Nestle, one of the global leaders in the F&B industry, invested in Impact Recycling's pioneering facility to create positive environmental change and advance hard-to-recycle plastic management. In line with this, in April 2024, a new study by multinational food packaging and processing company Tetra Pak revealed a shift in the food and beverage (F&B) industry with various companies prioritizing sustainable practices. Furthermore, the wide presence of key players that cater to the emerging trend of on-the-go consumption is expected to drive the market in this segmentation over the forecasted period.
In 2024, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest market share of over 39.7%. According to the report, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share. Government bodies in the Asia Pacific are implementing stringent regulations to promote a circular economy, which is driving the regional market. For instance, in February 2022, the government bodies in India notified the new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, placing a statutory responsibility on manufacturers to recycle, collect, and reuse used plastic packaging and use recycled content in new plastic packaging. The guidelines also aimed to improve packaging sustainability by setting ambitious targets and promoting improved packaging design. According to the rigid plastic packaging market statistics, advanced recycling partnerships in Asia Pacific will continue to fuel the regional market over the forecasted period.
United States Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Analysis
In 2024, the United States accounts for over 80% of the rigid plastic packaging market in North America. The United States rigid plastic packaging market is growing at present on account of several key factors. Manufacturers are increasingly using lightweight materials that are durable as well in order to meet increasing consumer demand for sustainable and environmental-friendly packaging solutions, driven by constant regulatory pressures and environmental concerns. The food and beverages sector is witnessing a need for long shelf-life packaging since companies are emphasizing freshness and convenience, particularly for ready-to-eat and grab-and-go products. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says children of all age groups prefer ready-to-eat cereal that contained high amounts of sugar: 26.8% aged 2-5 years, 26.1% aged 6-11 years, and 17.3% aged 12-19 years. In addition, the health care industry as well as pharmaceutical companies are embracing rigid plastic containers due to its tamper-evident characteristics with respect to medical products as well as devices. Technological advancements in the field of packaging enable such designs as well as customization to satisfy branding and product differentiation strategies. E-commerce development also drives the market, where companies focus on more impact-resistant and lighter packaging solutions that save shipping costs and decrease damage while moving. Along with this, companies are investing in post-consumer recycled plastics and bio-based alternatives to meet sustainability goals, which go along with consumer expectations as well as regulatory mandates. All of these factors are amalgamating together to shape the rigid plastic packaging market in the United States, therefore making it a vital share within many industries.
Asia Pacific Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Analysis
The Asia-Pacific rigid plastic packaging market is currently being driven by the increasing demand for lightweight and durable packaging solutions across various industries, including food and beverages, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. Manufacturers are actively shifting toward rigid plastic packaging due to its ability to provide enhanced product protection, prolonged shelf life, and cost-effective transportation. The food and beverage sector is rapidly adopting rigid plastic packaging for items like ready-to-eat meals, dairy products, and carbonated drinks, aligning with the growing consumer preference for convenience foods. Rigids plastic containers also feature a premium look which enables personal care and cosmetics companies to attract consumers in this region's booming urban markets. Pharmaceutical companies also require rigid plastic packaging due to strict regulatory requirements and the need to maintain product integrity. On account of the e-commerce business growth in countries such as China and India, which are densely populated, the need for packaging that ensures safe deliveries of products is also on the rise. According to the International Trade Administration, Indian E-commerce value stood at about 46.2 Billion US Dollars in the year 2020. In addition to that, sustainability is a rising concern, with companies integrating their packing with reusable plastic and biodegradable plastic packaging material. These factors collectively highlight the market's dynamic nature and its ongoing response to the region's evolving consumer and industrial demands.
Europe Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Analysis
European rigid plastic packaging market is witnessing growth currently with increasing trend of sustainable packaging solutions amidst rising environmental regulations. Manufacturers are increasingly using recyclable and bio-based rigid plastic materials to meet the European Union's stringent packaging waste directives. Factors influencing this include rising demand in the food and beverage sector, where rigid plastic containers are acquiring prominence because of their durability, lightweight nature, and ability to preserve freshness of the product. Moreover, companies are actively investing in advanced manufacturing technologies, including injection molding, as well as thermoforming, for improving manufacturing efficiency and produce new designs that suit consumer requirements better. E-commerce growth throughout Europe is fueling demand for robust and lightweight packaging, particularly in areas such as personal care and household products where safe and secure transportation is critical. According to the International Trade Administration, Europe is the third biggest retail ecommerce market globally, with total revenue of USD 631.9 Billion. The pharma and healthcare sectors are using rigid plastic packing with the increasingly essential objectives of maintaining product integrity and conformity to safety standards. The market is also embracing digital printing technologies to provide customized and visually attractive packaging that attracts better brand recognition and engages consumers. As brands continue to talk about sustainability and functionality, the European rigid plastic market evolves to fulfill these dynamic needs.
Latin America Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Analysis
The Latin American rigid plastic packaging market is currently driven by an increasing adoption of sustainable and recyclable materials as governments and industries intensify efforts to meet stringent environmental regulations and consumer demand for eco-friendly products. The adoption of advanced technologies such as lightweighting and barrier properties for enhanced packaging efficiency and shelf-life is the primary trend, as the region continues to increasingly prefer convenience in the food and beverage industry. E-commerce penetration is creating an increased demand for tough and protective packaging solutions for products that need to reach their destination safely. Data Privacy Framework reports that in 2018, the e-commerce industry in Brazil saw a 12% increase. There is also the growth of personal care and pharmaceuticals, who actively seek rigid plastic due to its tamper-evident and aesthetic merits. Companies are further diversifying designs in order to adapt to growing markets in cosmetics and beauty. Manufacturers are also entering partnerships with the local suppliers to maximize cost saving and simplify the supply chains in response to fluctuation in resin prices and complications in regional trade. As the market for rigid plastic packaging aligns with these emerging trends, it solidifies its position within the packaging industry in Latin America.
Middle East and Africa Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Analysis
The demand for rigid plastic packaging is rapidly increasing in Middle East and Africa, driven by the growing food and beverage, personal care, and healthcare industries. The focus on enhancing the shelf life of products in extreme hot climates is a motivating factor in adopting rigid plastic with good barrier properties. Increasing focus on innovative, recyclable, and sustainable plastics by manufacturers is ensuring compliance with stringent environmental regulations and catering to the consumer demand for eco-friendly packages. Growth of e-commerce has also fueled the demand for rigid plastic packaging for safe transportation of goods along with storage. Businesses are further employing attractive and customised designs to improve brand differentiation in various markets. According to the International Trade Administration, UAE is the e-commerce leader among Gulf Cooperation Council states, where the market jumped 53% in 2020 with a record of USD 3.9 billion in e-commerce sales. In addition, the market is experiencing constant growth in the packaging of essential drugs such as pharmaceuticals. These companies are now integrating features such as tamper-evident and child-resistant packaging to offer more safety features. Growth in urban populations and increasing disposal incomes further fuels the demand for rigid plastic packaging across various end-users. Besides this, developments in manufacturing technologies are improving cost effectiveness and efficiency thereby supporting continued growth in the Middle East and Africa market.
Key players in the global rigid plastic packaging market are driving growth through strategic actions such as product innovation and sustainability initiatives. Companies are investing in advanced manufacturing technologies, including recycled and bio-based plastics, to align with environmental regulations and consumer requirement for eco-friendly packaging. Moreover, collaborations and partnerships with brands in the food, beverage, and healthcare sectors are enabling the development of customized packaging solutions. Expansion into emerging markets and the establishment of regional production facilities are improving supply chain efficiency and meeting rising demand. Additionally, key players are adopting digital technologies such as IoT-enabled smart packaging, enhancing product traceability and consumer engagement, further augmenting market growth and competitiveness.