Bioplastic Packaging Market - By Material, By Packaging Type, By End-use Industry & Forecast, 2024 - 2032

Bioplastic Packaging Market Size

The global bioplastic packaging market was valued at USD 17.6 billion in 2023 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 17.3% from 2024 to 2032.
 

The bioplastic packaging industry is growing rapidly, driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly options and strict government regulations on plastic waste. Technological advances are making bioplastics more cost-effective, while corporate investments boost R&D and production. For instance, in November 2023, Sulzer is expanding its bioplastics portfolio with the introduction of a new technology called CAPSUL, designed for the continuous manufacturing of polycaprolactone (PCL), a biodegradable polyester.
 

This innovative technology aims to enhance the production efficiency of PCL, which is widely used in various applications such as packaging. The industry is seeing increased adoption in food & beverage, personal care, and pharmaceutical sectors. As recycling and composting infrastructure improves, the market is set to expand further, aligning with the shift towards a circular economy and higher sustainability standards in packaging.
 

Bioplastic Packaging Market Trends

The bioplastic packaging industry is changing as industries focus on sustainability. Companies in food and drink, medicine, and consumer goods are using more bioplastics to meet regulations, and customer demands for eco-friendly packaging. New materials like PLA, PHA, and starch blends are popular because they break down naturally. Bio-PET, which doesn't biodegrade, is as strong as regular plastic. Better technology is making bioplastics cheaper and better quality, so they can be used more widely. Companies are also working on making bioplastics easier to recycle or compost. With new investments and partnerships, the industry is moving towards a greener future.
 

For instance, in October 2024, The ReBioCycle initiative is a significant partnership aimed at enhancing the recycling of bioplastics across Europe. This project involves a consortium of 20 partners, including notable organizations like TotalEnergies Corbion and AIMPLAS, and is funded by the Circular Bio-based Joint Undertaking under the EU's Horizon Europe program, with a budget of over USD 8 million.
 

Bioplastic Packaging Market Analysis

Bioplastic packaging faces challenges like high costs, limited recycling infrastructure, and competition for agricultural resources. Producing bioplastics requires specialized technologies and manufacturing processes, which are often less developed and more expensive compared to the well-established infrastructure for traditional plastics. Investments in new equipment, research, and development contribute to higher overall production costs.
 

However, opportunities arise. Stricter regulations on single-use plastics and growing consumer demand for eco-friendly options drive market growth. Advances in materials and production make bioplastics more cost-effective and versatile, expanding their use in food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. Corporate sustainability efforts and green tech investments further boost adoption, painting a bright future for the market.
 

Based on material the market is segmented into biodegradable and non-biodegradable. The biodegradable segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 18.5% during the forecast period.
 

• The biodegradable segment of the market is growing fast due to environmental concerns and stricter regulations. Governments are pushing for less plastic waste, encouraging biodegradable alternatives. These bioplastics, made from sources like corn starch and sugarcane, meet the rising demand for sustainable packaging in food, beverage, and personal care industries.
   
• New technologies are making biodegradable materials cheaper and more versatile, improving their quality and shelf-life. This makes them competitive with traditional plastics in terms of durability and performance. As people become more aware of plastic's environmental impact, investment in biodegradable options is increasing. These materials are set to take a big share of the global packaging market in the near future.
   

Based on packaging type the market is divided into flexible packaging and rigid packaging. The flexible packaging segment dominated the market with a market share of over 55% in 2023.
 

• Flexible packaging leads the bioplastic packaging market, thanks to its versatility and wide use across food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods industries. Its lightweight nature and efficiency reduce material use and transport costs, aligning with sustainability goals.
   
• Recent improvements in bioplastics like PLA, PHA, and starch blends have enhanced the durability and barrier properties of flexible packaging, better preserving products and extending shelf life. This packaging type's adaptability to various product shapes and sizes, coupled with its support for waste reduction, cements its position as the market leader. Companies increasingly choose flexible bioplastic packaging to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining product quality.
   

North America held a significant share of over 25% in 2023. The U.S. bioplastic packaging market is growing due to consumer demand for sustainable alternatives and strong corporate commitments to reduce plastic waste. Federal and state-level regulations, like bans on single-use plastics, further boost demand. Major industries, including food & beverage and healthcare, are increasingly adopting bioplastic packaging, and advancements in production technology are helping to reduce costs, supporting broader adoption across sectors.
 

China's market is booming. Strict government rules on plastic pollution and strong manufacturing capabilities are driving this growth. More people, especially in cities, are becoming eco-conscious. China's big investments in technology and large-scale production make bioplastics cheaper, helping local companies and boosting exports.
 

Germany leads Europe in bioplastic packaging. Tough environmental laws and high demand for green products fuel this trend. The government offers incentives for eco-friendly packaging, particularly in food, drink, and personal care sectors. With top-notch recycling systems and new biodegradable materials, Germany is a hotspot for bioplastic innovation.
 

India's bioplastic packaging market is on the rise. A growing eco-aware middle class and government efforts to cut plastic waste are key factors. Food, drink, and retail industries are the main users of sustainable packaging. While composting facilities are limited, more investment in green tech and local bioplastic production is boosting adoption.
 

Japan is expanding its bioplastic packaging industry to meet ambitious plastic reduction goals. Government focus on sustainability is pushing companies to use bioplastic alternatives, especially for food, cosmetics, and consumer goods packaging. Japan's advanced tech infrastructure supports new bioplastic innovations, like marine-biodegradable materials, making it a leader in Asia-Pacific bioplastics.
 

Bioplastic Packaging Market Share 

The competition in the bioplastic packaging industry is intensifying as companies strive to innovate and meet the growing demand for sustainable solutions. Leading players are focusing on advancing bioplastic production technologies, improving material performance, and reducing production costs to remain competitive. Additionally, firms are entering strategic partnerships, forming collaborations, and investing in research and development to enhance their product offerings. While established players dominate, new entrants and startups are capitalizing on niche markets, driving further innovation and competition across the industry.
 

Bioplastic Packaging Market Companies

Major players operating in the bioplastic packaging industry are:

• Amcor
• Bio Futura
• Biome Bioplastics
• Corbion
• FKuR
• Futamura Group
• Genpak
• IIC
• ITC Packaging
• J. Landworth Company
• NatureWorks
• Novamont
• Sealed Air
• Stora Enso
• Tetra Pak
• TIPA
• Walki Group
• Xiamen Changsu Industrial
   

Bioplastic Packaging Industry News

• In November 2024, Walki Group and Lactips have announced a strategic partnership aimed at developing fully biodegradable and plastics-free food packaging using natural polymers. This collaboration is particularly significant as it addresses the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
   
• In June 2024, Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have made a significant breakthrough in sustainable materials by developing a 100% biodegradable bioplastic derived from barley starch and sugar beet fiber. This innovative biocomposite material is designed to address the pressing issue of plastic waste, which has become a critical environmental challenge.
   

This bioplastic packaging market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) & volume (Kilo Tons) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Material

• Biodegradable
  • Starch blends
  • Polylactic acid
  • Polybutylene Succinate (PBS)
  • Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate (PBAT)
  • Others
• Non-biodegradable    
  • Bio polyethylene terephthalate
  • Bio polyethylene
  • Bio polyamide
  • Others

Market, By Packaging Type

• Flexible packaging
• Rigid packaging

Market, By End-use Industry

• Food and beverage
• Consumer goods
• Pharmaceuticals
• Building and construction
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa