Corrugated Board Packaging Market By Type (Single Face Board, Single Wall Board), End-User Industry (Processed Foods, Fresh Food and Products, Beverages), & Region for 2026-2032

Corrugated Board Packaging Market Valuation - 2026-2032

Corrugated board packaging is in high demand because of its adaptability, durability, and eco-friendliness making it a popular choice across a wide range of industries. One of the key causes of this expansion is the rise of e-commerce. As online shopping becomes increasingly popular, the demand for dependable and protective packing solutions has increased by enabling the market to surpass a revenue of USD 111.09 Billion valued in 2024 and reach a valuation of around USD 167.03 Billion by 2032.

The growing emphasis on sustainability is considerably driving the demand for corrugated board packaging. With worldwide concerns about plastic waste, businesses and consumers alike are looking for eco-friendly packaging options. Corrugated board is manufactured from renewable materials and is fully recyclable making it an environmentally friendly choice by enabling the market to grow at a CAGR of 5.77% from 2026 to 2032.

Corrugated Board Packaging Market: Definition/ Overview

Corrugated board packaging is a popular material made of three layers: an inner liner, an outer liner, and a fluted medium placed between them. Corrugated board's fluted medium which is often comprised of recycled paper provides structural stability and cushioning while being lightweight and strong. This innovative design enables corrugated packaging to absorb shocks and protect contents during transit lowering the chance of damage.

It is well known for its versatility and durability making it a popular choice in a variety of industries. Its applications are many including food and beverage packaging, electronics, cosmetics, and consumer products. The corrugated board's structural stability allows it to resist the rigors of shipping and storage while also offering great product protection.

The corrugated board packaging industry is predicted to increase significantly due to several trends. As environmental awareness grows, consumers expect more sustainable and recyclable packaging alternatives. Corrugated board is manufactured from renewable materials and is 100% recyclable making it a sustainable option for brands looking to lessen their environmental impact.

Will the Growing Consumer Awareness of Environmentally Friendly Packaging Drive the Corrugated Board Packaging Market?

The increased consumer awareness of environmentally friendly packaging is an important driver for the corrugated board packaging industry. This trend is being driven by rising environmental concerns and a global push toward more sustainable purchasing patterns. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), worldwide material consumption will exceed 92 billion tons in 2023 with packaging materials accounting for a significant percentage.

The global push for circular economy concepts has increased the corrugated board business, with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation estimating that implementing circular economy tactics in the packaging sector could save USD 700 Billion in material costs worldwide. Additionally, government rules play an important role in propelling the industry. In Asia, China's ban on plastic waste imports has resulted in a 22% rise in corrugated board production in 2023 over the previous year, according to the China Paper Association.

Will the Rising Raw Material Prices Hamper the Corrugated Board Packaging Market?

Rising raw material prices are likely to provide substantial problems for the corrugated board packaging market, potentially impeding its expansion. As demand for corrugated packaging rises owing to the expansion of e-commerce, retail, and food delivery services so do the prices of crucial raw materials such as paper pulp, starch, and additives. Higher raw material costs have a direct impact on production expenses, perhaps leading to higher prices for end users. This position causes manufacturers to either absorb the expenses, eroding profit margins or pass them on to customers, potentially leading them to seek alternate packaging methods.

The volatility of raw material pricing is increased by supply chain interruptions, environmental laws, and shifting global trade dynamics. As sustainability becomes a top priority, businesses are increasingly choosing recycled and eco-friendly materials in their manufacturing operations which can often be more expensive. Furthermore, manufacturers may need to invest in novel technology to improve efficiency and minimize waste to balance rising prices which can put additional strain on their finances.

Category-Wise Acumens

Will Lightweight Qualities and Cost-Effectiveness Drive Growth in the Type Segment?

The single wall board segment is anticipated to dominate the corrugated board packaging market owing to its widespread application in industries such as retail, electronics, food and beverage, and others. The attractiveness of single wall boards stems from their remarkable blend of protection, lightweight properties, and cost-effectiveness. These boards are made out of a single flute layer sandwiched between two liners resulting in a robust yet adjustable construction.

Single wall boards' prominence in a variety of industries is largely due to their adaptability. They are appropriate for packaging a wide range of products from fragile electronics to perishable food items, because of their cushioning capabilities which protect contents from impact and vibrations. Furthermore, their low cost makes them an appealing option for organizations looking to reduce packaging costs without sacrificing product quality.

Will the Consumer Preferences and Industry Trends Drive the End-User Segment?

The processed foods market is likely to dominate due to high demand caused by consumer tastes and industry changes. The advent of convenience foods, ready-to-eat meals, and packaged snacks has heightened the demand for effective and dependable packaging solutions. Processed foods necessitate protective packaging that can extend shelf life, preserve product integrity, and withstand the rigors of travel and storage. Corrugated board packaging provides great protection against physical damage, moisture, and pathogens making it a perfect solution for processed food processors. As health-conscious customers seek out packaged food options, the need for creative and sustainable corrugated packaging solutions is expected to expand reinforcing the segment's dominance.

The beverages segment is also a key player in the corrugated board packaging market owing to rising demand for bottled drinks, cans, and other liquid items. The growing popularity of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages has driven manufacturers to seek more effective packaging solutions that maintain product safety while being simple to transport and display. Corrugated packaging is strong and durable enough to preserve beverages during transportation and handling while preventing breakage and leaking.

Country/Region-wise Acumens

Will the Rapid Economic Expansion Drive the Market in the Asia Pacific Region?

The Asia Pacific corrugated board packaging industry is primarily driven by strong economic growth, with China and India leading the way. This dominance stems mostly from the region's thriving e-commerce sector, increased industrial output, and rising consumer goods demand, all of which rely significantly on corrugated packaging solutions. The e-commerce boom is a major driver of corrugated board packaging in Asia Pacific. According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the region's e-commerce sales will reach USD 2.9 Trillion in 2023, marking a 25% increase year on year.

According to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Asia Pacific's manufacturing value added (MVA) increased by 5.2% in 2023 exceeding the global average of 3.8%. China's National Bureau of Statistics claims that industrial production climbed by 6.5% in 2023, while India's Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation reports a 7.2% gain in the same period. Environmental issues and environmental initiatives are also influencing the market. According to the Korean Ministry of Environment, the recycling rate for corrugated packaging will reach 92% in 2023, ranking among the highest in the world.

Will the Increasing Demand for Efficient And Sustainable Packaging Solutions Drive the Market in the North American Region?

The North American corrugated board packaging industry is expanding rapidly driven mostly by rising demand for efficient and sustainable packaging solutions. This trend is accelerating the most in the e-commerce sector as online retail sales continue to rise and consumers express a rising desire for environmentally friendly packaging solutions. The e-commerce boom is a major driver of corrugated board packaging in North America. According to the US Census Bureau, e-commerce sales in the United States will reach USD 1.09 Trillion in 2023, up 15.7% from the previous year.

According to the EPA, corrugated board has the highest recycling rate of any packaging material in the United States, at 96.4%. This is consistent with consumer preferences since a National Retail Federation poll revealed that 70% of North American shoppers consider sustainability when making purchasing selections. Government laws and business activities also influence the market. According to the Canadian Corrugated and Containerboard Association, the industry's carbon footprint has decreased by 32% over the last decade due to improved manufacturing methods and increased usage of recycled fibers.

Competitive Landscape

The Corrugated Board Packaging Market is a dynamic and competitive space, characterized by a diverse range of players vying for market share. These players are on the run for solidifying their presence through the adoption of strategic plans such as collaborations, mergers, acquisitions, and political support. The organizations are focusing on innovating their product line to serve the vast population in diverse regions.

Some of the prominent players operating in the corrugated board packaging market include:

International Paper Company

Mondi Group

Smurfit Kappa Group PLC

DS Smith PLC

WestRock Company

Packaging Corporation of America

Cascades Inc.

Oji Holdings Corporation

Georgia-Pacific LLC

Nippon Paper Industries Ltd

Rengo Co. Ltd

Klingele Papierwerke GmbH and Co. KG

Klabin SA

Sealed Air Corporation

Latest Developments

In November 2022, International Paper, a global leader in the fiber-based packaging and absorbent pulp industries, invested more than 20 million Euros to enhance the capacity and capabilities of its Italian box factories in Bellusco, Catania, and Pomezia.

In October 2022, Mondi and Reckitt packed finish dishwasher tabs in paper-based packaging, using 75% less plastic.

Corrugated Board Packaging Market, By Category

• Type:
• Single Face Board
• Single Wall Board
• Double Wall Board
• Triple Wall Board
• End-User Industry:
• Processed Foods
• Fresh Food and Products
• Beverages
• Paper Products
• Electrical Products
• Others
• Region:
• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle East & Africa