As per MRFR analysis, the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Size was estimated at 14.91 (USD Billion) in 2023. The India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Industry is expected to grow from 15.66(USD Billion) in 2024 to 34.29 (USD Billion) by 2035. The India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 7.385% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Key India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Trends Highlighted
The India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market is witnessing significant growth driven by several key market drivers. The increasing awareness about sustainability and the push for eco-friendly packaging solutions has led to a rise in demand for paper and paperboard products.
Government initiatives promoting the reduction of plastic usage are further supporting this trend, as many businesses are seeking alternatives in compliance with environmental regulations. The booming e-commerce sector in India is also a major contributor, with packaging playing a crucial role in ensuring the safe delivery of products, thus driving demand for innovative packaging solutions.
India's paper and paperboard sector is ripe for leaping forward on the shop floor, with robotics, data analytics, and other lean technologies moving from pilot projects toward routine use. Side-by-side and short-run digital printing presses are letting converters swap plates for pixels, slash lead times, and decorate cartons as freely as designers do websites. A second opening, pulled along by plastic bans and vocal buyers, is the sprint toward compostable and biodegradable grades that local mills could ramp up with modest chemistry tweaks.
Finally, the usual mentors-falmultinationals, packaging labs, and ingredient start-ups-might be joined by unlikely pairs such as a rural co-op and a tech incubator, swapping know-how to service the pop-up brands chasing specialty and limited-edition runs.Trends in recent times show a marked increase in the investment of companies towards enhancing product safety and durability, which are crucial in the highly competitive retail environment.
The focus on reducing the carbon footprint through sustainable sourcing of raw materials is becoming a priority for many businesses. Various players are experimenting with smart packaging technologies that provide additional functionalities such as tracking and inventory management. This mix of sustainability, technological innovation, and heightened consumer awareness is shaping the future of the paper and paperboard packaging market in India, indicating a transformative period ahead.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Drivers
Rising Demand for Sustainable Packaging Solutions
The growing consumer awareness regarding environmental issues is significantly driving the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Industry. With the Government of India targeting a reduction in plastic usage and promoting the use of eco-friendly materials, many industries are transitioning to paper and paperboard packaging.
Reports suggest that over the past five years, there has been a 150% increase in the adoption of sustainable packaging solutions among businesses, as indicated by the Central Pollution Control Board.
Prominent companies such as ITC Limited and Asian Paints have set ambitious targets for sustainable packaging practices, further propelling the market. The emphasis on sustainable packaging not only aligns with consumer trends but is also supported by regulatory frameworks encouraging reduced plastic usage.
Growth in the E-commerce Sector
The rapid expansion of the e-commerce sector in India, projected to reach USD 200 billion by 2026, is significantly boosting the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Industry. As online shopping becomes increasingly prevalent, the demand for packaging solutions that ensure product safety and durability surges.
According to the India Brand Equity Foundation, the e-commerce market has grown at a CAGR of approximately 27% from 2017 to 2021. Companies like Flipkart and Amazon are continually optimizing their packaging processes to enhance customer experience, further increasing the demand for paper and paperboard packaging.
Increased Consumer Awareness of Health and Safety
The rise in health consciousness among consumers in India has led to an increase in demand for safe and hygienic packaging materials, driving growth in the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Industry. A survey conducted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India found that 78% of consumers prefer products packaged in materials that are recognized as safe and non-toxic.
Strong players in the food and beverage sector, such as Britannia Industries and Nestle India, are increasingly using paperboard packaging to meet consumer expectations for health and safety.This trend is expected to continue, significantly impacting market growth.
India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Segment Insights:\
Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Type Insights
The India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market demonstrates a diverse Type of segmentation, prominently featuring segments such as Corrugated Boxes, Boxboard, and Paper Bags, which reflect the evolving packaging needs in various industries. Corrugated Boxes, known for their durability and eco-friendliness, have gained prominence due to the growth in e-commerce and the need for secure packaging solutions to protect goods during transit.
They are widely used in industries such as food, electronics, and consumer goods, leading to increased demand as online shopping continues to expand across the country.
Boxboard has found significant utility in sectors that require packaged goods, including pharmaceuticals and consumer products, as it offers a combination of strength and lightweight properties that enhance packaging functionality. Its clean and aesthetic appeal also contributes to brand promotion, making it a key choice for premium products.
Meanwhile, Paper Bags have surged in popularity as an environment-friendly alternative to plastic. With rising consumer awareness regarding sustainability and government initiatives aimed at reducing plastic use, Paper Bags have become a preferred option for retailers and consumers alike.
This shift not only reflects a changing consumer mindset but also encourages packaging manufacturers to innovate and invest in sustainable materials. Collectively, these segments reveal a robust landscape driven by initiatives towards sustainability, functional efficiency, and the dynamic needs of industries, underpinning the growth trajectory of the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Grade Insights
The Grade segment of the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market showcases a diverse range of products that cater to the evolving demands of various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. The Folding Boxboard is significant due to its robust structure and versatility, making it ideal for packaging items that require durability and aesthetic appeal. Solid Bleached Sulfate exhibits its importance in luxury packaging, allowing brands to enhance their product visibility with high-quality prints.
White Line Chipboard serves as an economical choice for various applications, being widely adopted for its lightweight yet strong characteristics.Coated Unbleached Kraft Board is gaining traction, particularly in eco-friendly applications, as industries shift focus towards sustainable packaging solutions.
Additionally, the 'Others' category encompasses emerging materials that are innovating the way products are packaged, reflecting consumer preferences for convenience and sustainability. This diversity within the Grade segment plays a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market, catering to multiple sectors and aligning with the growing trend of sustainable practices in packaging.
India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market is characterized by a robust and dynamically evolving landscape shaped by both domestic and international players. With the growing emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions driven by environmental concerns, companies within this sector are increasingly focusing on innovative packaging designs and materials.
Competitive insights reveal a diverse range of offerings from various manufacturers, which are constantly adapting to consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and advancements in technology. As the market expands, players are leveraging strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to enhance their market positioning, optimize production capabilities, and foster growth in specific segments.
This ongoing evolution reflects not just the demand for paper and paperboard packaging in traditional sectors like food and beverages but also in emerging markets such as e-commerce and pharmaceuticals, effectively broadening the competitive landscape.
West Coast Paper Mills Limited stands out in the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market with its robust production capacities and commitment to quality. The company has established a significant presence within the region, characterized by its diverse range of paper products, which cater to various industrial needs.
Renowned for its operational excellence, West Coast Paper Mills Limited has effectively utilized advanced technology in its manufacturing processes, allowing for high efficiency and reduced waste. The strength of this company lies not only in its ability to deliver quality products at competitive prices but also in its sustainable practices, which resonate well with the growing emphasis on eco-friendly solutions in packaging.
Furthermore, the established distribution network enables the company to respond promptly to market demands, positioning it favorably against competitors in the same space.International Paper APPM Limited has a notable presence within the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market, driven by its diverse portfolio of products that include high-quality paper for packaging applications.
The company has leveraged its strength in innovation to create specialized products that cater to the unique requirements of various industries, thereby enhancing its market share. With a focus on sustainability, International Paper APPM Limited has implemented eco-conscious practices throughout its operations, further solidifying its reputation as a responsible manufacturer.
The company's strategic initiatives, including mergers and acquisitions, have enabled it to expand its capabilities and resources significantly within the region. International Paper APPM Limited's commitment to quality and service excellence, coupled with its comprehensive product range, positions it as a formidable contender in the competitive arena of the Indian paper and paperboard packaging landscape.
Key Companies in the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Include
India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Industry Developments
In recent months, the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market has experienced significant developments and changes, particularly among key players such as West Coast Paper Mills Limited, International Paper APPM Limited, and ITC Limited.
For instance, West Coast Paper Mills Limited has focused on expanding its production capacity, which aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions in India. Amcor Limited continues to innovate its product offerings to meet environmental standards, reflecting a broader industry trend toward sustainability.
In terms of mergers and acquisitions, there have been discussions regarding potential collaborations, particularly involving Sirpur Paper Mills Limited in August 2023, which is poised to enhance its market outreach. The government's push for a circular economy and increased recycling of paper products has contributed to market growth estimated to reach $12 billion by 2025, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices.
Over the past two years, the shift toward eco-friendly packaging has catalyzed significant investments in Research and Development among companies like Century Pulp and Paper and Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited. This transformation underscores a pivotal shift in consumer preferences toward environmentally responsible products within the Indian market landscape.
India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Segmentation Insights
Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Type Outlook
Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Grade Outlook
| Report Attribute/Metric Source: | Details |
| MARKET SIZE 2023 | 14.91(USD Billion) |
| MARKET SIZE 2024 | 15.66(USD Billion) |
| MARKET SIZE 2035 | 34.29(USD Billion) |
| COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) | 7.385% (2025 - 2035) |
| REPORT COVERAGE | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| BASE YEAR | 2024 |
| MARKET FORECAST PERIOD | 2025 - 2035 |
| HISTORICAL DATA | 2019 - 2024 |
| MARKET FORECAST UNITS | USD Billion |
| KEY COMPANIES PROFILED | West Coast Paper Mills Limited, International Paper APPM Limited, Shree Rama Newsprint Limited, Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited, Amcor Limited, Century Pulp and Paper, Bala Vikasa Paper Mills, Jai Balaji Industries Limited, Pankaj Piyush Paper Mills Limited, Sirpur Paper Mills Limited, Sappi Limited, ITC Limited, Asian Pulp and Paper, Paper Products Limited, UPMKymmene Corporation |
| SEGMENTS COVERED | Type, Grade |
| KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES | Sustainable packaging solutions demand, Growth in e-commerce packaging, Increased use in agriculture, Biodegradable materials innovation, Government support for recycling. |
| KEY MARKET DYNAMICS | Rising e-commerce demand, Sustainable packaging initiatives, Regulatory support for recycling, Increasing consumer awareness, Growth in food and beverage sector |
| COUNTRIES COVERED | India |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market is expected to be valued at 15.66 USD Billion in 2024.
By 2035, the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market is projected to reach 34.29 USD Billion.
The market is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.385% from 2025 to 2035.
Corrugated Boxes are anticipated to dominate the market with a value of 6.12 USD Billion in 2024.
The market value for Boxboard is expected to reach 11.0 USD Billion by 2035.
Major players in the market include West Coast Paper Mills Limited, International Paper APPM Limited, and Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited among others.
The market value for Paper Bags is expected to be 4.56 USD Billion in 2024.
Sustainability, increased demand for eco-friendly packaging, and the rise of e-commerce are emerging trends boosting market growth.
Challenges include fluctuating raw material prices and increased competition from alternative packaging solutions.
Regional demand is expected to grow significantly driven by urbanization and an improving economy across various states in India.
Leading companies partner with us for data-driven Insights.
Kindly complete the form below to receive a free sample of this Report
Assistant Manager - Research High acumen in analyzing complex macro & micro markets with more than 6 years of work experience in the field of market research. by implementing her analytical skills in forecasting and estimation into market research reports, she has expertise in packaging, construction, and equipment domains. she handles a team size of 20-25 resources and ensures smooth running of the projects, associated marketing activities, and client servicing.
Get in Touch
© 2025 Market Research Future ® (Part of WantStats Reasearch And Media Pvt. Ltd.)
