NEWS

(07/22/2026 / sbr)

Overview of India paper and paperboard packaging industry

India’s paper and paperboard packaging industry is shifting toward value-added, specialized, and sustainable solutions—such as cup stock, pharma print, and high BF virgin kraft—enabled by automated manufacturing and quality control that meet international standards while controlling costs. Sustainability and recyclability are central, especially in food and beverage, where paper-based alternatives (e.g., paper tubes for dry goods and specialized dairy cartons) are displacing plastics.

The paper and paperboard packaging market is valued at USD 13.72 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 18.92 billion by 2030 (6.63% CAGR), underpinned by innovations like corrugated packaging for fresh produce, high-temperature bonding for bacterial control, and aseptic technologies using hydrogen peroxide to extend shelf life. In parallel, flexible packaging stands at USD 20.41 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 35.11 billion by 2030 (11.46% CAGR), dominated by flexible plastics (75% of plastic packaging) favored by FMCG for versatility and cost—though the proliferation of non-recyclable multilayer formats from small manufacturers poses circularity challenges even as light weight and transport efficiency drive adoption.

Upstream, India’s wood pulp market reached USD 15.70 billion in 2024 and is forecast to hit USD 19.70 billion by 2033 (2.30% CAGR), supported by sustainable packaging demand, viscose fiber in textiles, pro-domestic manufacturing policies, and increased use of recycled pulp; however, corrugated waste paper collection fell 55–60% at the start of 2025, signaling supply constraints.

Source: Overview of India paper and paperboard packaging industry