Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market Soars by USD 249.52 Bn by 2034

Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market Growth, Key Segments, and Regional Dynamics with Manufacturers and Suppliers Data

Analysts project the Asia Pacific food packaging industry to expand from USD 160.67 billion in 2024 to USD 249.52 billion by 2034, marking a CAGR of 4.5% through the decade.In 2024, China dominated the Asia Pacific food packaging market, with flexible packaging leading. Bio-based plastics and ready-to-eat foods are expected to grow fastest, while e-commerce and retail chains show strong potential.

Last Updated: 24 October 2025 Category: Food Packaging Insight Code: 5862 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

The Asia Pacific food packaging market is projected to reach USD 249.52 billion by 2034, growing from USD 167.9 billion in 2025, at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Rapid Urbanization, changing lifestyles, and increased disposable income are boosting the consumption of ready-to-eat convenience, and processed foods, driving demand for effective packaging solutions.

Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market Growth and Trends 2025

Market Summary

The Asia Pacific food packaging market is witnessing significant growth, driven by rising demand for packaged and processed foods, rapid urbanization, and changing consumer lifestyles. China dominates the region due to its large population, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and expanding retail and e-commerce sectors. Increasing focus on sustainability, such as recyclable and biodegradable materials, along with technological advancements in smart and active packaging, is further fueling market expansion. Rising food safety regulations and consumer preference for convenience and freshness continue to support the adoption of innovative packaging solutions across the region.

Key Takeaways

  • China held a major revenue share of in the market in 2024.
  • Southeast Asia is expected to witness the fastest growth during the predicted timeframe.
  • By packaging type, the flexible packaging segment registered its dominance over the global market with a share in 2024.
  • By packaging type, the bio-based & sustainable flexible packaging segment is expected to grow with the highest CAGR in the market during the studied years.
  • By material type, the plastic segment held the largest revenue share of in the market in 2024.
  • By material type, the PLA / bio-based plastics segment is expected to show the fastest growth over the forecast period.
  • By application / food type, the bakery & confectionery segment held a dominant presence in the Asia Pacific food packaging market with a share in 2024.
  • By application/food type, the ready-to-eat & convenience foods segment is expected to witness the fastest growth in the market over the forecast period.
  • By packaging functionality, the protective packaging segment contributed the biggest revenue share of in the market in 2024.
  • By packaging functionality, the active & intelligent packaging segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the forecast period.
  • By end-user/industry vertical, the food & beverage manufacturers segment held a dominant presence in the Asia Pacific food packaging market with a share in 2024.
  • By end-user/industry vertical, the e-commerce & retail food chains segment is expected to witness the fastest growth in the market over the forecast period.

What is Meant by Food Packaging?

The Asia Pacific food packaging market is driven by rapid urbanization, changing consumer lifestyles, and growing demand for convenient, ready-to-eat, and processed foods. Rising e-commerce, modern retail expansion, and a focus on food safety and sustainability further propel market growth. Food packaging refers to the process of enclosing or protecting food products using various materials such as plastic, glass, metal, or paper to preserve quality, ensure safety, and extend shelf life.

It prevents contamination, physical damage, and spoilage while providing convenience during transportation, storage, and consumption. Packaging also serves as a medium for branding, labeling, and regulatory compliance, enhancing product appeal and consumer trust.

Market Outlook

  • Industry Growth Overview -: The Asia-Pacific food packaging market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand for processed and convenience foods, rapid urbanization, expanding e-commerce and retail sectors, rising focus on sustainability, and technological advancements in smart and protective packaging solutions.
  • Major Investors -: Major investors in the Asia Pacific food packaging market include multinational packaging corporations, private equity firms, and venture capitalists focusing on sustainable and innovative solutions. Key players invest in advanced technologies, eco-friendly materials, and capacity expansion to capitalize on rising regional demand.
  • Startup Ecosystem -: The Asia-Pacific food packaging startup ecosystem is flourishing, fueled by growing demand for sustainable, convenient, and technologically advanced solutions. Startups are innovating in biodegradable materials, smart packaging, and automated systems, attracting significant venture capital and strategic partnerships to scale operations and meet evolving consumer preferences across food and beverage sectors. These startups are leveraging digital technologies, such as IoT-enabled and traceable packaging, to enhance supply chain efficiency and product safety. Collaborative initiatives with established packaging firms and research institutions are accelerating R&D, enabling rapid commercialization of eco-friendly and consumer-centric packaging solutions, positioning the region as a hub for innovation-driven growth in the food packaging industry.

Key Metrics and Overview

Metric Details
Market Size in 2024 160.67 Billion
Projected Market Size in 2034 USD 249.52 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2034) 4.5%
Market Segmentation By Packaging Type, By Material Type, By Application / Food Type, By Packaging Functionality, By End-User / Industry Vertical and By Geography / Country (within Asia Pacific)
Top Key Players Amcor, Berry Global, Sealed Air, Huhtamaki, Tetra Pak, Uflex, Crown Holdings, Sonoco, Mitsubishi Chemical
  • Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Packaging – Companies are increasingly adopting biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable packaging materials to reduce environmental impact. Consumer demand for green products and government regulations on single-use plastics are driving this trend.
  • Rise of E-Commerce and Modern Retail – Rapid growth of online grocery shopping and modern retail formats is increasing the need for durable, protective, and convenient packaging that ensures product safety during transport and storage.
  • Smart and Active Packaging Technologies – Adoption of intelligent packaging solutions, such as freshness indicators, QR codes, RFID tags, and modified-atmosphere packaging enhances shelf life, traceability, and consumer engagement.
  • Convenience and Ready-to-Eat Packaging – With busy lifestyles, demand for single-serve, portable, and easy-to-open packaging is rising, particularly for processed foods and beverages.
  • Food Safety and Regulatory Compliance – Packaging solutions are being designed to comply with stringent food safety standards, tamper-evident features, and labeling regulations across Asia-Pacific countries.
  • Material Innovation and Lightweighting – Companies are investing in lightweight, flexible, and multi-layer materials that reduce transportation costs, improve shelf life, and meet sustainability goals.
  • Premiumization and Branding – Packaging is increasingly used as a marketing tool, with premium designs, clear labeling, and storytelling elements to enhance brand recognition and consumer appeal.

How can AI integration Improve the Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration is transforming the food packaging industry by enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability. AI-driven systems enable predictive maintenance in packaging lines, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. Machine learning models optimize material usage, lowering costs and minimizing waste, while computer vision ensures quality control by detecting defects in packaging.

In Asia-Pacific, companies are adopting AI-enabled smart packaging with sensors that monitor freshness, track temperature, and provide real-time data for logistics. For instance, startups in Japan and Singapore are deploying AI-based traceability solutions, integrating QR codes and IoT systems to improve food safety, transparency, and consumer trust in packaging.

Key Insights & Technology Advancements in Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market

Company / Org Country Smart Packaging Innovation Benefit / Distinction
CJ CheilJedang South Korea Kimchi Easy-Carry Pouch with maze top-seal Allows fermentation gases to escape, reduces clips, recyclable and consumer-friendly
Sunrise Packaging Materials & Guangdong Wuqiong China High-barrier, retort, easy-peel pouch for spiced eggs Longer shelf life, easy-to-open, prevents spoilage
Thermo Lab (SmartCube) South Korea IoT-enabled thermal packaging with data logging Cold chain monitoring, reduced food spoilage
Amcor (with JD Farm) China NFC/QR-enabled flexible packaging for traceability Boosts consumer engagement and food safety
Tetra Pak India Cartons using certified recycled polymers Sustainable alternative, reduces virgin plastic
Amcor (APAC pilots) Asia-Pacific Connected packaging with QR codes Improves provenance tracking and consumer trust
Mitsubishi Chemical / Kirin Japan Thin-film deposition barrier PET bottles Lightweight, improved barrier for beverages
Huhtamaki China / APAC Smart-label packaging for exports Enhances export traceability and brand security
Nippon Paper Japan Biodegradable smart films with freshness indicators Eco-friendly, improves shelf-life monitoring
Startups (Japan, Singapore) Japan / Singapore AI-based defect detection in packaging lines Enhances quality control and reduces waste
Korean food-pack firms South Korea Time-temperature indicator trays Ensures freshness in chilled ready meals
Indian research labs & startups India Biopolymer compostable packs with QR traceability Sustainable, improves dairy & produce tracking
Chinese converters China RFID-enabled seafood & dairy export packs Anti-counterfeit and cold chain visibility
Regional consortiums & trade expos Asia-Pacific Active antimicrobial smart films Extends shelf life, prevents contamination
Research spinouts (IITs, Australia, Japan) APAC region Mycelium/agro-waste smart packaging with digital IDs Sustainable, digital integration for traceability

Which Packaging Type Segment Dominated the Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market?

The flexible packaging segment dominates the Asia Pacific food packaging market due to its lightweight nature, cost-effectiveness, and ability to extend the shelf life of food products. Its adaptability to various shapes and sizes makes it highly suitable for snacks, frozen foods, dairy, and ready-to-eat meals. Rising demand for convenience, growing e-commerce, and the shift toward smaller, single-serve portions further boost its adoption. Additionally, advancements in recyclable and biodegradable flexible materials align with sustainability goals, strengthening its market leadership across the region.

The bio-based and sustainable flexible packaging segment is the fastest-growing in the Asia-Pacific food packaging market due to increasing environmental concerns, government regulations on plastic reduction, and rising consumer preference for eco-friendly solutions. Companies are investing in biodegradable films, compostable pouches, and recyclable laminates to meet sustainability goals and appeal to conscious buyers. The rapid expansion of food delivery and retail sectors further accelerates demand, as brands adopt greener packaging to enhance reputation, reduce carbon footprints, and ensure long-term market competitiveness.

Why Did the Plastic Segment Dominate the Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market?

The plastic segment dominates the Asia Pacific food packaging market due to its versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. It is widely used in bottles, containers, pouches, and films, offering excellent barrier properties that protect food from contamination and extend shelf life. Additionally, plastic packaging supports lightweighting and convenient designs, making it ideal for busy urban lifestyles and expanding food delivery services.

The PLA/ bio-based plastic segment is the fastest-growing in the Asia-Pacific food packaging market due to rising environmental awareness and government regulations on single-use plastics. Its biodegradable and compostable properties appeal to eco-conscious consumers, while food brands increasingly adopt PLA for sustainable packaging solutions, particularly in ready-to-eat meals, beverages, and retail-ready products, supporting both convenience and environmental responsibility.

What Made Bakery & Confectionery the Dominant Segment in the Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market?

The bakery & confectionery segment dominates the Asia Pacific food packaging market due to the high demand for packaged snacks, chocolates, and baked goods across urban and semi-urban populations. Packaging ensures product freshness, prevents contamination, and enhances visual appeal, which is critical for impulse purchases. Additionally, the rise of retail chains, e-commerce, and convenience-focused lifestyles further drives the adoption of innovative and protective packaging in this segment.

The ready-to-eat and convenience food segment is the fastest-growing in the Asia Pacific food packaging market due to increasing urbanization, busier lifestyles, and higher disposable incomes, which drive demand for quick and easy meal solutions. Packaging plays a crucial role in preserving freshness, extending shelf life, and providing portability. Additionally, the rapid growth of e-commerce and food delivery platforms requires durable, tamper-evident, and convenient packaging. Sustainable and innovative packaging solutions further appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, boosting the segment’s growth across the region.

Which Packaging Functionality Segment Led the Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market?

The protective packaging segment dominates the Asia Pacific food packaging market due to its ability to safeguard products from physical damage, contamination, and spoilage during storage and transportation. High demand from sectors such as bakery, dairy, and processed foods, coupled with the rapid growth of e-commerce and long-distance food delivery, further drives the adoption of durable, tamper-evident, and reliable protective packaging solutions across the region.

The Active and Intelligent Packaging segment is the fastest-growing in the Asia-Pacific food packaging market due to rising consumer demand for freshness, safety, and traceability. Technologies such as freshness indicators, oxygen scavengers, and RFID-enabled smart packaging enhance product quality, monitor storage conditions, and improve supply chain transparency. Growing adoption in ready-to-eat meals, dairy, and meat products further fuels its rapid growth.

What Made Food and Beverage Manufacturers Segment the Dominant Segment in the Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market?

The food and beverage manufacturers segment dominates the Asia Pacific food packaging market due to high demand for packaged products, including snacks, dairy, beverages, and processed foods. Manufacturers prioritize packaging solutions that ensure product safety, extend shelf life, enhance branding, and meet regulatory requirements, driving widespread adoption across the region.

The e-commerce and retail food chain segment is the fastest-growing in the Asia-Pacific food packaging market due to the rapid expansion of online grocery shopping and modern retail formats. Packaging solutions are increasingly designed to be durable, tamper-evident, and convenient for last-mile delivery, ensuring product safety, freshness, and enhanced consumer experience, while supporting the region’s growing digital and retail food ecosystem

Regional Analysis

Which Factors Contribute to China’s Dominance in the Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market?

China dominates the Asia Pacific food packaging market due to its large population, rapidly growing urbanization, and expanding food and beverage industry. Strong manufacturing capabilities, advanced packaging technologies, and a well-established supply chain enable efficient production and distribution. Additionally, rising consumer demand for convenience, processed foods, and e-commerce-driven packaging solutions further solidify China’s leading position in the regional market.

How Big is the Opportunity for the Growth of the Southeast Asia Market?

Southeast Asia is the fastest-growing region in the Asia Pacific food packaging market due to rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and increasing demand for packaged and processed foods. The expansion of modern retail formats, supermarkets, and e-commerce platforms is driving the need for convenient, durable, and attractive packaging solutions.

Governments in the region are also promoting sustainable and eco-friendly packaging initiatives, encouraging manufacturers to adopt biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable materials. Additionally, the growing popularity of ready-to-eat meals, beverages, and snacks, combined with rising food safety awareness, is accelerating the adoption of advanced packaging technologies, making Southeast Asia a highly dynamic and fast-expanding market.

Top Vendors in Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market & Their Offerings

Amcor plc

Headquarters: Switzerland

Offerings: Amcor provides a wide range of packaging solutions, including flexible and rigid containers, closures, and specialty cartons. They focus on sustainability, offering recyclable and biodegradable packaging options.

Recent Development: Amcor announced the acquisition of Berry Global Group in an $8.43 billion deal, aiming to create a significant player in the consumer and healthcare packaging industry with combined revenues of $24 billion. 

Sealed Air Corporation

Headquarters: United States

Offerings: Known for its Cryovac brand, Sealed Air offers vacuum packaging solutions that extend shelf life and reduce food waste. They also provide automation solutions for packaging lines.

Recent Development: Sealed Air continues to innovate in sustainable packaging, focusing on reducing plastic usage and enhancing recyclability.

Huhtamaki Group

Headquarters: Finland

Offerings: Huhtamaki specializes in molded fiber and plastic packaging solutions for food and beverages. They emphasize sustainability with products like compostable food containers.

Recent Development: Huhtamaki has been expanding its sustainable product lines and increasing its presence in emerging markets across Asia.

Berry Global Inc.

Headquarters: United States

Offerings: Berry Global provides a wide range of packaging products, including containers, closures, and films. They focus on innovation and sustainability in their product offerings.

Recent Development: Berry Global is set to merge with Amcor, creating a leading global packaging company. 

Crown Holdings Inc.

Headquarters: United States

Offerings: Crown Holdings specializes in metal packaging for food and beverages, including cans and closures. They are known for their durable and sustainable packaging solutions.

Recent Development: Crown Holdings continues to invest in sustainable packaging technologies and expand its global footprint.

Uflex Limited

Headquarters: India

Offerings: Uflex offers flexible packaging solutions, including films, laminates, and pouches. They cater to various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care.

Recent Development: Uflex has been focusing on expanding its sustainable packaging offerings and increasing its presence in international markets.

Tetra Pak

Headquarters: Switzerland

Offerings: Tetra Pak specializes in aseptic packaging solutions for liquid foods and beverages. They focus on sustainability and food safety in their packaging systems.

Recent Development: Tetra Pak continues to innovate in sustainable packaging and expand its global reach, particularly in emerging markets.

Top Companies in the Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market

Tier 1:

  • Amcor plc
  • Berry Global, Inc.
  • Sealed Air Corporation
  • Mondi Group
  • Huhtamaki Oyj
  • Uflex Ltd.
  • Ball Corporation
  • Crown Holdings, Inc.
  • WestRock Company
  • Sonoco Products Company
  • SABIC
  • Tetra Pak
  • Smurfit Kappa Group
  • Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation

Tier 2:

  • Jindal Poly Films Ltd.
  • Cosmo Films Ltd.
  • TC Transcontinental Packaging
  • Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH
  • Kuraray Co., Ltd.
  • ProAmpac
  • Evergreen Packaging
  • Interpack Group
  • Parksons Packaging Ltd.
  • Fujifilm Packaging Solutions

Tier 3:

  • Japan Tetra Pak Ltd.
  • Sappi Lanaken
  • DNP Imagingcomm America Corporation
  • APEX International 

Recent Development in the Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market

  • In January 2025, BioPak (Australia), packaging company introduced FSC-certified, home-compostable PHA cups, earning a Gold award at the Sustainable Packaging Design Special Award. These cups are produced from plant sugars and vegetable oils without fossil inputs, offering a fully certified, leak-proof, and compostable alternative to traditional packaging.
  • In February 2025, ICAR-CCRI and VNIT (India) collaborated to develop biodegradable packaging materials using sweet orange peel waste. This initiative aims to substitute synthetic plastics with sustainable alternatives by incorporating bioactive compounds from citrus peels into biopolymer matrices like chitosan-alginate. The collaboration promotes interdisciplinary research involving nanotechnology, electronics, engineering, and applied chemistry.
  • In May 2025, Cheerpack Asia Pacific (CPAP) and Flavour Makers (Australia) won the Gold Award in the Sustainable Packaging Design category and the Silver Award in the Food Packaging Design category at the Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design Awards (PIDA) 2025.
  • In July 2025, Dow Chemical (China) launched INNATE TF 220 Precision Packaging Resin, a recyclable material aimed at enhancing the recyclability and performance of flexible plastic packaging. This resin is used in the production of BOPE films, commonly applied in food, personal care, and cleaning product packaging.

Asia Pacific Food Packaging Market Segments

By Packaging Type

  • Flexible Packaging
  • Bio-based & Sustainable Flexible Packaging
  • Rigid Packaging (Plastic, Glass, Metal)
  • Paper & Board Packaging
  • Innovative / Specialty Packaging (Edible Films, Active & Intelligent Packaging)

By Material Type

  • Plastic (PET, PE, PP, PVC, PS, PLA)
  • PLA / Bio-based Plastics
  • Paper & Paperboard
  • Metal (Aluminum, Tinplate, Steel)
  • Glass
  • Composite / Laminates

By Application / Food Type

  • Bakery & Confectionery
  • Ready-to-Eat & Convenience Foods
  • Dairy Products
  • Meat, Poultry & Seafood
  • Fruits & Vegetables
  • Beverages (Non-Alcoholic & Alcoholic)
  • Frozen & Processed Foods
  • Other Food Products (Snacks, Sauces, Condiments, Nutraceuticals)

By Packaging Functionality

  • Protective Packaging
  • Active & Intelligent Packaging (Modified Atmosphere, Oxygen Scavengers, Smart Labels)
  • Convenience & Ready-to-Use Packaging

By End-User / Industry Vertical

  • Food & Beverage Manufacturers
  • E-commerce & Retail Food Chains
  • Retail & Supermarkets
  • Food Service & Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs)
  • Other End-Users (Catering, Institutional Food Services)

By Geography / Country (within Asia Pacific)

  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia & New Zealand
  • Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia)

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  • Insight Code: 5862
  • No. of Pages: 400
  • Format: PDF/PPT/Excel
  • Last Updated: 24 October 2025
  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021–2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Vidyesh Swar is a Senior Research Analyst at Towards Packaging, bringing over 4 years of dedicated expertise in market intelligence and strategic analysis across the dynamic world of packaging technologies and solutions.

Learn more about Vidyesh Swar

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in packaging market research, specializes in food, beverage, and eco-friendly packaging. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards Packaging 's excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

The market is driven by rapid urbanization, changing consumer lifestyles, increasing demand for ready-to-eat and processed foods, and rising disposable income, leading to a greater need for effective and sustainable packaging solutions.

China leads the market due to its large population, advanced manufacturing capabilities, robust food and beverage industry, and expanding e-commerce, alongside increasing consumer demand for convenient and packaged foods.

Key trends include the rise of eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions, the growth of e-commerce and retail, adoption of smart and active packaging technologies, and increasing focus on food safety and regulatory compliance.

Flexible packaging dominates the market due to its cost-effectiveness, ability to extend shelf life, and suitability for a variety of food types, including snacks, frozen foods, and ready-to-eat meals.

This segment is growing due to heightened environmental awareness, government regulations on plastic reduction, and increasing consumer preference for eco-friendly packaging options, particularly in the food sector.

AI integration enhances efficiency and sustainability by optimizing material usage, reducing waste, and improving quality control. AI-enabled smart packaging, such as freshness indicators and IoT-based traceability, improves consumer trust and food safety.

Plastic, particularly PET, PE, and PLA, holds the largest market share due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and excellent barrier properties, which help protect food and extend its shelf life.