The global next-gen paper-based and fiber-based packaging market is anticipated to reach USD 449.92 billion by 2030 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 3.5% from 2025 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The next-gen paper and fiber-based packaging market is experiencing significant transformation driven primarily by sustainability concerns and increasing environmental regulations. Consumers and businesses alike are rejecting plastic packaging in favor of biodegradable and recyclable alternatives. Major brands such as Unilever, P&G, and Nestlé have committed to reducing plastic waste, creating substantial market opportunities for innovative paper-based solutions. The EU's Single-Use Plastics Directive and similar regulations worldwide are accelerating this transition.
E-commerce expansion continues to drive demand for sustainable shipping materials and innovative designs. Amazon's "Frustration-Free Packaging" program incentivizes brands to develop minimal, recyclable packaging optimized for the e-commerce supply chain. Meanwhile, the food service industry is rapidly adopting fiber-based alternatives to replace plastic containers, straws, and utensils.
Premiumization trends are elevating paper packaging beyond its environmental credentials. Luxury brands are embracing paper and fiber-based solutions that offer high-quality printing, tactile experience, and customization possibilities. Digital printing advancements allow for personalization and small-batch production, opening new market segments. Brands such as Apple have demonstrated how minimal, sophisticated paper packaging can enhance brand perception while meeting sustainability goals. This combination of environmental benefits, technical performance improvements, and premium aesthetic possibilities positions paper-based packaging for continued growth across multiple industries.
The Asia-Pacific region represents the fastest-growing market, with China implementing aggressive plastic reduction policies following its 2018 ban on imported plastic waste. Japan leads in high-performance paper packaging innovation, while India is seeing rapid growth in paper-based packaging for its expanding e-commerce and food delivery sectors.
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The recycled fiber segment accounted for the largest share of over 53.0% of the market in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 4.0% during the forecast period.
Based on application, the food and beverages segment held the largest share of the market, accounting for over 43.0% of the total revenue in 2024.
The personal care & cosmetics segment is expected to grow at the fastest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0%.
The North America region dominated the market by registering a revenue market share of over 36.0% in 2024.
The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 3.9% during the forecast period.
In February 2024, Paboco, The Paper Bottle Company, officially commenced full-scale production of its fibre-based bottles at its manufacturing site in Slangerup, Denmark. The company aims to produce over 20.0 million bottles by the end of 2025, marking a significant milestone in sustainable packaging innovation.
For this report, Grand View Research has segmented the global next-gen paper-based and fiber-based packaging market on the basis of material source, application, and region:
Next-gen Paper-based And Fiber-based Packaging Material Source Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 2018 - 2030)
Recycled Fiber
Virgin Fiber
Next-gen Paper-based And Fiber-based Packaging Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 2018 - 2030)
Food & Beverages
Retail & E-commerce
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Others
Next-gen Paper-based And Fiber-based Packaging Region Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
France
UK
Italy
Spain
Asia Pacific
China
India
Japan
South Korea
Australia
Central & South America
Brazil
Argentina
Middle East & Africa
South Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
List of Key Players in the Next-gen Paper-based And Fiber-based Packaging Market
Ranpak
PAPTIC
Nexgen Packaging, LLC
The Paper Bottle Company
UPM Specialty Papers
PulPac
Graphic Packaging International, LLC
Mondi
Stora Enso
Smurfit Kappa
WestRock
DS Smith
International Paper
Koehler Paper
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