Corrugated Packaging Market Summary
As per MRFR Analysis, the global Corrugated Packaging Market was valued at USD 64.35 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 66.52 Billion in 2025 to USD 88.29 Billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 3.53% during the forecast period. The growth is driven by increasing demand from the e-commerce sector and rising disposable incomes in developing countries. However, challenges such as the availability of substitutes and environmental impacts during production persist. Opportunities lie in advancements in digital printing and the demand for retail-ready packaging.
Key Market Trends & Highlights
Key trends influencing the Corrugated Packaging Market include technological advancements and changing consumer preferences.
- Digital printing advancements are creating opportunities for customization and personalization in packaging.
- The Slotted Boxes segment dominated the market in 2024, while Folder Boxes are projected to be the fastest-growing segment.
- The Recycled material segment led the market in 2024, with Virgin materials expected to grow rapidly.
- Asia-Pacific is the largest market, with significant growth driven by e-commerce and manufacturing sectors.
Market Size & Forecast
2024 Market Size: USD 64.35 Billion
2035 Market Size: USD 88.29 Billion
CAGR (2025-2035): 3.53%
Largest Regional Market Share in 2024: Asia-Pacific
Major Players
Key players in the market include Westrock, Mondi Plc, Ds Smith, International Paper, Georgia-Pacific Llc, Smurfit Kappa, and Stora Enso.
The growing demand of corrugated packaging from the e-commerce sector is driving the market growth And Increasing disposable income in developing countries is propelling the demand for corrugated packaging is Driving The Corrugated Packaging Market.
As per Analyst at MRFR,” Corrugated packaging is rapidly growing due to the growing demand for corrugated packaging from the e-commerce sector followed by increasing disposable income in developing countries. However, the market faces challenges such as availability of substitutes like flexible packaging and impact on environment during production of corrugated boxes. Moreover, digital printing advancements and retail-ready packaging to poise an opportunity for corrugated packaging industry followed by demand for convenience food are trend adopted by market leaders the packaging industry.”
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Corrugated Packaging Market Trends
DIGITAL PRINTING ADVANCEMENTS TO CREATE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR CORRUGATED PACKAGING INDUSTRY
As the digital printing market matures and the corrugated segment has developed a growing appetite to adopt the process at an early stage, programs are now being developed to meet the demands of strong liner after printing markets that are soft on the run in length, the savings in planning costs, the brand, region, store or person concerned or the ability to personalise, and the level of quality now available through the latest technology all combine to make 'a whirlwind of want' development opportunities for converters and printers. Brand owners are recognizing opportunities to boost declining brand loyalty through the increased engagement of their customers offered by these technological advances, and industry leaders see packaging as key creating a memorable shopping experience that users share through social media, which can drive business, encourage repeat business, and attract new customers.
Digital printing allows for high levels of customization and personalization, which is increasingly demanded by consumers and brands. With digital printing, corrugated packaging can be tailored to specific campaigns, seasons, or even individual customers. This level of personalization can enhance customer engagement and brand loyalty. For example, Smurfit Kappa integrates digitization into corrugated industries, creating new paper. Smurfit Kappa, a leading manufacturer of corrugated packaging solutions, has increased the integration of digitization into the corrugated industry. Multipurpose paper was developed so that the printing presses could work in tandem with the packaging.
This development expands the scope of optimal digital printing and is expected to enhance digital printing capabilities. Image optimization has led to higher conversion rates, increased sales and more. The company is keen to develop innovative solutions and advance existing sustainable technologies. These developments are driving the digitalization of the paper packaging industry and offer great potential for market growth.
Corrugated Packaging Market Segment Insights
Global Corrugated Packaging Type Insights
Based on type, the Corrugated Packaging Market is segmented across the following segments: Slotted Boxes, Rigid Boxes, Telescope Boxes, and Folder Boxes. The Slotted Boxes segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Folder Boxes is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Slotted boxes are the building blocks of corrugated packaging. Made from corrugated cardboard, a material featuring fluted layers sandwiched between flat sheets for strength, these boxes come pre-scored and folded flat for efficient storage and transportation.
The design of slotted boxes includes pre-cut slots that allow the flaps to interlock or overlap when folded, providing a sturdy and reliable structure without the need for additional adhesives or fasteners. This construction not only enhances the box's strength and durability but also simplifies the packing process, making it efficient for shipping and storage. There are various slotted box styles, each suited to different needs. The most common is the Regular Slotted Container (RSC), where all flaps are the same size and meet in the center when closed. Other variations include boxes with overlapping flaps for extra strength or half-slotted styles for open-top displays. Slotted boxes are widely used across various industries due to their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and ability to protect goods during transit, accommodating products of different sizes and weights.
Global Corrugated Packaging By material Insights
Based on material, the Corrugated Packaging Market is segmented across the following segments: Virgin and Recycled. The Recycled segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Virgin is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Recycled material in corrugated packaging refers to paper products made from recovered paper fibers rather than virgin wood fibers. This includes two primary components: linerboard and medium. Recycled linerboard is the outer layer of corrugated cardboard, crafted from repurposed paper fibers, providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to virgin linerboard. Despite being made from recycled fibers, it still offers considerable strength and durability for packaging applications.
The medium, the fluted layer between the linerboards, is also commonly produced from recycled materials. This recycled medium retains the essential cushioning and structural properties needed for effective protection of packaged goods. Utilizing recycled materials for both the linerboard and medium significantly reduces the environmental impact of corrugated packaging by conserving natural resources, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing waste. While recycled corrugated packaging may sometimes be slightly less robust than its virgin counterpart, advances in recycling technology have greatly improved its quality, making it a sustainable and reliable option for many packaging needs.
Figure 1: Corrugated Packaging Market, By Sales Channel, 2024 & 2035 (USD Billion)
Global Corrugated Packaging By wall construction Insights
Based on wall construction, the Corrugated Packaging Market is segmented across the following segments: Single-wall, Double-wall, and Triple-wall. The Single-wall segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Triple-wall is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Single wall construction in corrugated packaging refers to a type of cardboard structure that consists of one layer of fluted (or corrugated) medium sandwiched between two layers of linerboard. This construction provides a balance of strength, durability, and flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of packaging applications.
The fluted medium creates a series of arches that significantly enhance the cardboard’s load bearing and shock-absorbing properties, while the linerboards offer a smooth surface for printing and additional rigidity. Single wall corrugated cardboard is commonly used for shipping boxes, retail packaging, and storage containers due to its ability to protect contents from impact and compression during transit and handling. It is a versatile and cost-effective option, capable of accommodating various product sizes and weights while maintaining a relatively lightweight profile. This type of construction is highly favored in industries such as e-commerce, manufacturing, and logistics, where reliable and efficient packaging solutions are essential.
Global Corrugated Packaging By Packaging Type Insights
Based on Packaging Type, the Corrugated Packaging Market is segmented across the following segments: Shelf Ready Packaging (SRP), Corrugated Transit Packaging, Glued Crash Lock Containers, Point of Sale Display Packaging, Postal & Mail Order Packaging, Bespoke and Creative Packaging, Presentation Packaging, and Others. The Corrugated Transit Packaging segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Presentation Packaging is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Corrugated transit packaging refers to a specific category of corrugated packaging designed primarily for the transportation and shipment of goods over long distances. It is characterized by its sturdy and protective construction, typically featuring multiple layers of corrugated cardboard that provide strength, durability, and cushioning.
The primary purpose of corrugated transit packaging is to safeguard products from damage during handling, loading, unloading, and transportation across various modes such as road, rail, sea, and air. This packaging type is engineered to withstand external impacts, vibrations, and environmental conditions encountered throughout the supply chain. Corrugated transit packaging comes in various configurations, including single wall, double wall, and triple wall constructions, each offering varying levels of protection depending on the weight and fragility of the contents. Due to its versatility and reliability, corrugated transit packaging is widely utilized across industries such as manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, automotive, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
Global Corrugated Packaging By paper grade Insights
Based on paper grade, the Corrugated Packaging Market is segmented across the following segments: Testliner, Kraftliner, White-Top Kraftliner, Semi-Chemical Fluting, Recycled Fluting, Others. The Kraftliner segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the White-Top Kraftliner is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period .Kraftliner is a high-quality paper grade used in corrugated packaging, primarily for the outer layers or linerboards of corrugated cardboard. It is made predominantly from virgin wood fibers through the kraft process, which imparts exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to wear and tear.
Kraftliner is known for its superior burst strength, tear resistance, and edge crush resistance, making it ideal for packaging applications that require robust protection for heavy or fragile goods during transit and handling. The natural brown color of kraftliner, resulting from the unbleached kraft process, is often associated with environmental sustainability and is popular for its rustic and natural aesthetic. Kraftliner is widely used in various industries, including food and beverage, electronics, automotive, and e-commerce, where strong, reliable, and visually appealing packaging is essential
Global Corrugated Packaging By printing technology Insights
Based on printing technology, the Corrugated Packaging Market is segmented across the following segments: Flexography, Digital Printing, Lithography, Screen Printing, and Others. The Flexography segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Screen Printing is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Flexography is a popular printing method that is used to produce corrugated packaging. It is effective and adaptable when handling different substrates, such as paper, cardboard, and plastic.
Flexography's versatility in printing on many materials, including rough or uneven surfaces like corrugated packaging, is one of its main advantages. Vibrant colors and long-lasting prints are possible since the technique can handle a variety of ink types, including solvent-based, water-based, and UV-curable inks. Flexography is particularly valued in the corrugated packaging industry for its ability to produce high-quality prints at high speeds, making it ideal for large-scale production runs. Flexography is also cost-effective, with relatively low setup costs and fast turnaround times, making it a popular choice for printing on corrugated boxes, cartons, and other packaging formats.
Global Corrugated Packaging By flute type Insights
Based on flute type, the Corrugated Packaging Market is segmented across the following segments: A-flute, B-flute, C-flute, E-flute, and F-flute. The C-flute segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the E-flute is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. C-flute corrugated packaging is a widely used type of corrugated fiberboard that features flutes with a medium height and spacing, typically about 38 flutes per foot with a flute thickness of approximately 3.6 to 4.0 mm.
This design strikes a balance between the cushioning properties of A-flute and the rigidity of B-flute, providing strong stacking strength, good cushioning, and relatively smooth surfaces for printing. C-flute corrugated packaging is versatile and suitable for a broad range of applications, including shipping boxes, retail packaging, and protective inserts. Its combination of durability and printability makes it a popular choice for packaging that requires both structural integrity and attractive presentation.
Global Corrugated Packaging By End Use Industry Insights
Based on end use industry, the Corrugated Packaging Market is segmented across the following segments: Food & Beverages, Home Care, Pharmaceuticals, E-commerce, Electronics Goods, Textile Goods, Personal Hygiene, and Others. The Food & Beverages segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Home Care is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Corrugated packaging is extensively used in the food and beverage industry due to its versatility, strength, and protective qualities.
This type of packaging is ideal for transporting and storing a wide range of food products, from fresh produce and frozen foods to beverages and dry goods. Its robust structure safeguards contents from physical damage, while its ability to be customized allows for ventilation, which is crucial for perishable items like fruits and vegetables. Additionally, corrugated packaging can be treated to be moisture-resistant, which helps maintain the integrity of the package and the quality of the food products. Its smooth surface also supports high-quality printing, enabling brands to effectively showcase their logos and product information, enhancing marketing efforts and shelf appeal.
Global Corrugated Packaging Regional Insights
Based on region, the Corrugated Packaging Market is segmented across the following segments: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South America. The Asia-Pacific dominated the global market in 2024, while the Asia-Pacific is projected to be the fastest–growing Region during the forecast period.
The Asia-Pacific corrugated packaging market, encompassing key countries such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea, is one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic regions in the global packaging industry. China, the largest market in the region, drives significant demand due to its expansive manufacturing sector and booming e-commerce industry, necessitating robust and versatile packaging solutions. In addition, India's market is rapidly expanding, fueled by its growing consumer base, increasing urbanization, and the rise of organized retail, which requires efficient and sustainable packaging options. Also, Japan, known for its technological advancements and high standards of quality, demands innovative and precise corrugated packaging, particularly for electronics, automotive parts, and consumer goods.
Furthermore, South Korea's market benefits from its strong electronics and cosmetics industries, with a focus on high-quality, aesthetically appealing, and protective packaging. Across the region, there is a rising emphasis on sustainability, with consumers and businesses increasingly opting for recyclable and eco-friendly packaging materials. In addition, the rapid growth of e-commerce and the need for efficient supply chain management further propel the demand for corrugated packaging. Also, Innovations in design and manufacturing processes are enhancing the functionality, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability of corrugated packaging in the region, making it a critical component in the Asia-Pacific region's diverse and rapidly evolving market landscape.
Figure 2: Corrugated Packaging Market, By Region, 2024 & 2035 (USD BILLION)
Further, the major countries studied in the market report are the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, Germany, France, UK, Spain, Italy, Rest of Europe, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Rest of APAC, Saudi, Arabia, UAE, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Rest of South America
Global Corrugated Packaging Key Market Players & Competitive Insight
Many global, regional, and local vendors characterize the Corrugated Packaging Market. The market is highly competitive, with all the players competing to gain market share. Intense competition, rapid advances in technology, frequent changes in government policies, and environmental regulations are key factors that confront market growth. The vendors compete based on cost, product quality, reliability, and government regulations. Vendors must provide cost-efficient, high-quality products to survive and succeed in an intensely competitive market.
The major players in the market include Westrock, Mondi Plc, Ds Smith, International Paper, Georgia-Pacific Llc, Saicapack, Thimm Packaging, Smurfit Kappa, Vpk Group, Wellpappe Auerswalde, Ico Industries, Stora Enso, Prinzhorn Group, And Among Other. The Corrugated Packaging Market is a consolidated market due to increasing competition, acquisitions, mergers and other strategic market developments and decisions to improve operational effectiveness.
Key Companies In The Corrugated Packaging Market Include.
- Westrock
- Mondi Plc
- Ds Smith
- International Paper
- Georgia-Pacific Llc
- Saicapack
- Thimm Packaging
- Smurfit Kappa
- Vpk Group
- Wellpappe Auerswalde
- Ico Industries
- Stora Enso
- Prinzhorn Group
Corrugated Packaging Market Segmentation
Corrugated Packaging Market by Type Outlook (USD Billion, 2019-2035)
- Slotted Boxes
- Rigid Boxes
- Telescope Boxes
- Folder Boxes
Corrugated Packaging Market by MATERIAL Outlook (USD Billion,2019-2035)
Corrugated Packaging Market by WALL CONSTRUCTION Outlook (USD Billion , 2019-2035)
- Single-wall
- Double-wall
- Triple-wall
Corrugated Packaging Market BY PACKAGING TYPE Outlook (USD Billion , 2019-2035)
- Shelf Ready Packaging (SRP)
- Corrugated Transit Packaging
- Glued Crash Lock Containers
- Point Of Sale Display Packaging
- Postal & Mail Order Packaging
- Bespoke And Creative Packaging
- Presentation Packaging
- Others
Corrugated Packaging Market by BY PAPER GRADE Outlook (USD Billion , 2019-2035)
- Testliner
- Kraftliner
- White-Top Kraftliner
- Semi-Chemical Fluting
- Recycled Fluting
- Others
Corrugated Packaging Market by BY PRINTING TECHNOLOGY Outlook (USD Billion , 2019-2035)
- Flexography
- Digital Printing
- Lithography
- Screen Printing
- Others
Corrugated Packaging Market BY FLUTE TYPES Outlook (USD Billion, 2019-2035)
- A-flute
- B-flute
- C-flute
- E-flute
- F-flute
Corrugated Packaging Market BY END USE INDUSTRY Outlook (USD Billion, 2019-2035)
- Food & Beverages
- Home Care
- Pharmaceuticals
- E-commerce
- Electronics Goods
- Textile Goods
- Personal Hygiene
- Others
Global Corrugated Packaging Regional Outlook
-
North America
-
Europe
- Germany
- France
- UK
- Spain
- Italy
- Rest of Europe
-
Asia-Pacific
- China
- India
- Japan
- South Korea
- Rest of APAC
-
South America
- Food & Beverages
- Home Care
- Pharmaceuticals
- E-commerce
- Electronics Goods
- Textile Goods
- Personal Hygiene
- Others
- Middle East & Africa
-
Saudi Arabia
- UAE
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
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Report Attribute/Metric
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Details
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Market Size 2024
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USD 64.35 Billion
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Market Size 2025
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USD 66.52 Billion
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Market Size 2035
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USD 88.29 Billion
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Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)
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3.53% (2025-2035)
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Base Year
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2024
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Market Forecast Period
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2025-2035
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Historical Data
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2019- 2023
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Market Forecast Units
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Value (USD Billion)
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Report Coverage
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Revenue Forecast, Market Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
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Segments Covered
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By Type, By Material, By Wall Construction, By Packaging Type, By Paper Grade, By Printing Technology, By Flute Types, By End Use Industry, And Region
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Geographies Covered
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North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa
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Countries Covered
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The U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, Germany, France, UK, Spain, Italy, Rest of Europe, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Rest of APAC, Saudi, Arabia, UAE, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Rest of South America.
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Key Companies Profiled
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Westrock, Mondi Plc, Ds Smith, International Paper, Georgia-Pacific Llc, Saicapack, Thimm Packaging, Smurfit Kappa, Vpk Group, Wellpappe Auerswalde, Ico Industries, Stora Enso, Prinzhorn Group
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Key Market Opportunities
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· The Growing Demand Of Corrugated Packaging From The E-Commerce Sector Is Driving The Market Growth
· Increasing Disposable Income In Developing Countries Is Propelling The Demand For Corrugated Packaging
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Key Market Dynamics
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· Digital Printing Advancements To Create An Opportunity For Corrugated Packaging Industry
· Retail-Ready Packaging Presents An Opportunity For Market Growth
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Corrugated Packaging Market Highlights:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The Corrugated Packaging Market size is expected to be valued at USD 88.29 Billion in 2035.
The global market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.53% during the forecast period, 2024-2035.
Asia Pacific had the largest share of the global market.
The key players in the market are Astec Industries Westrock, Mondi Plc, Ds Smith, International Paper, Georgia-Pacific Llc, Saicapack, Thimm Packaging, Smurfit Kappa, Vpk Group, Wellpappe Auerswalde, Ico Industries, Stora Enso, Prinzhorn Group.
Slotted Boxes dominated the market in 2024.
The Food & Beverages segment had the largest revenue share of the global market.
