Global plastic packaging industry - statistics & facts
Packaging is one of the main applications of plastic materials globally, making up a considerable share of total global plastics production. Indeed, plastics have become essential to the global packaging industry thanks to their versatility, durability, low cost, and lightweight properties. In 2024, the global plastic packaging market was valued at more than 413.89 billion U.S. dollars, underscoring the substantial economic impact of this market.
Plastic packaging is produced from various polymer types, with each having characteristics for specific applications. For example, high density polyethylene (HDPE) is commonly used to make containers for bleach and other cleaning supplies due its strength and chemical resistance, while polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is primarily used to make beverage bottles as it is clear, strong, and has high gas barrier properties.
The plastic packaging industry must adapt to these challenges and deliver circular economy solutions by introducing more sustainable options. The global sustainable plastic packaging market is expected to grow to almost 157.66 billion U.S. dollars by 2032, with bioplastics set to shape the market as more companies adopt these technologies. Many consumer brands are also targeting a reduction in virgin plastic use in their packaging products, while increasing the share of post-consumer recycled content.
Uses of plastic packaging
The increased global demand for plastic in recent decades has seen it become one of the main materials used within the packaging industry, replacing more traditional packaging materials like paper and cardboard, metal, and glass across many products. The rigid plastics market, a widely used form of plastic packaging, contributed 247.54 billion U.S. dollars in 2023 and is an efficient and cost-effective method of maintaining, transporting, and packaging a variety of commodities.Plastic packaging is produced from various polymer types, with each having characteristics for specific applications. For example, high density polyethylene (HDPE) is commonly used to make containers for bleach and other cleaning supplies due its strength and chemical resistance, while polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is primarily used to make beverage bottles as it is clear, strong, and has high gas barrier properties.
What is the future of plastic packaging?
Although many types of plastic are technically recyclable, only a small amount gets recycled globally due to a variety of different barriers. As a result, there has been increased consumer scepticism of many plastic products due to the environmental impact plastic waste has on the planet, with packaging facing considerable scrutiny. Growing plastic pollution has become an urgent environmental crisis, with governments worldwide introducing bans and taxes on products to reduce waste. While plastic packaging is unlikely to be replaced in the near future, traditional packaging materials could potentially displace plastics in the long term if recycling rates remain low.The plastic packaging industry must adapt to these challenges and deliver circular economy solutions by introducing more sustainable options. The global sustainable plastic packaging market is expected to grow to almost 157.66 billion U.S. dollars by 2032, with bioplastics set to shape the market as more companies adopt these technologies. Many consumer brands are also targeting a reduction in virgin plastic use in their packaging products, while increasing the share of post-consumer recycled content.
