Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container (FIBC) Market Size - By Product Type, By Capacity, By End-use Industry - Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Report ID: GMI13261
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Published Date: March 2025
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Report Format: PDF

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Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Share

The global flexible intermediate bulk container market was valued at USD 5.3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% to reach USD 9.8 billion by 2034. The growth of the market is attributed to factors such as growth in pharmaceutical and food industries and the booming e-commerce industry.
 

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market

The growth in pharmaceutical and food industries is major The growth in pharmaceutical and food industries is a major growth driver for the flexible intermediate bulk containers market. FIBCs are essential for transportation of active pharmaceuticals ingredients and fine powders, while complying with strict regulatory standards. Moreover, the surge in consumption of process food, sugar, grain, flour and dairy products has led to adoption of higher food grade FIBCs. These food grade FIBCs offers enhanced moisture resistance, UV protection, and tamper-proof storage while ensuring the products integrity.
 

FIBC manufacturers need to create superior quality, regulation-compliant FIBCs for the pharmaceutical and food sectors. Increased focus on moisture resistance, protection from UV radiation, and tamper-evident storage will provide product integrity, keeping up with increased demand for safe bulk packaging in food processing, grain, and pharmaceutical sectors.
 

The booming e-commerce industry is another key growth driver for the flexible intermediate bulk container market. These FIBCs offer cost efficient and durable packaging solutions for handling larger volume of goods, which makes them ideal for bulk transportation and warehousing. For instance, according to a report published by IBEF, the E-commerce market in India was valued at USD 123 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 292.3 billion in 2028.  Moreover, the increasing cross border trade and global supply chain requires durable, lightweight and recyclable packaging, which propels the growth of the flexible intermediate bulk containers market.
 

FIBC manufacturers must prioritize strong, affordable, and recyclable bulk packaging materials to satisfy increasing e-commerce and cross-border trade requirements. Increasing strength and lightness characteristics will enable efficient warehousing and transportation, matching the increasing global supply chain demands.
 

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Trends

  • One of the key trend in the flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) market is the shift toward sustainability practices. The increasing consumer preference towards eco friendly packaging coupled with the strict government regulations is pushing the adoption of sustainable and recyclable FIBCs. Manufacturers are shifting their focus towards manufacturing FIBCs from recycled polypropylene (PP) and biodegradable materials in line with sustainability objectives and regulatory needs in leading economies.
     
  • Another significant trend in the flexible intermediate bulk container market is the rapid adoption of food grade FIBCs. The growth in global food trade and grain storage requires high barrier, moisture resistance coupled with the increasing regulation by FDA, EU and BRC, ensuring hygiene and food safety is driving adoption of food grade bulk bags.
     
  • The growing preference for customized bulk bags is another key trend in the FIBC market. Several brands are focusing on personalized bags with enhanced traceability and barcoding to improve supply chain efficiency and inventory management. Manufacturers are investing in multi-layered FIBCs, barrier-coated textiles, and tamper-resistant sealing systems to provide enhanced protection for the product. New coating technologies and RFID-tagged bulk bags are being launched to help enhance traceability, supply chain transparency, and anti-counterfeiting, especially in sectors that deal with high-value chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
     

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Analysis

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market, By Capacity, 2021-2034 (USD Billion)
 
  • The 250kg – 750kg segment dominated the market and accounted for USD 2.5 billion in 2024. These containers are widely used in mid-sized industries such as agriculture, food processing and construction, for bulk material handling. These FIBCs offers cost effective solutions and are gaining rapid traction because it offers ease of handling and transporting, while reducing labour costs. Moreover, the increasing demand for hygienic packaging solutions in food, chemicals and pharmaceuticals industries further contributes to growth of this segment.
     
  • The above 750 kg segment is the fastest growing market and is projected to grow with a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period. These large FIBC containers are used by mining, cement and chemical industries for raw materials transportations. Firms operating in logistics and bulk transport prefer these containers, as they offers maximum efficiency while minimizing the handling costs. Additionally, the expansion in global trade has led to rapid adoption of these FIBC containers for shipping across continents.

 

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Share, By End-use Industry, 2024
 
  • The food & beverage industry is the fastest growing market and is projected to grow with a CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period. The growth of this segment is attributed to the increasing government regulations towards hygienic and contamination free packaging for food and beverage industries. Also, the increasing global trade for pulse, grain, rice and other food require large capacity bulk bags and durable FIBCs. Moreover, the technological advancements in the FIBC market has led to innovation of moisture resistant and UV protected FIBCs, which can preserve the product integrity during long distance transportations.
     
  • The chemical industry is the largest segment and accounted for USD 1.8 billion in 2024. The increasing demand for agrochemicals and petrochemicals, which requires high strength and leak proof FIBCs for safe transportations is a key growth driver of this segment. Furthermore, the increasing global trade for chemical exports and imports are driving the need for flexible intermediate bulk container. In addition to this, the increasing regulation from UN, EPA and OSHA for hazardous and toxic chemicals transportation further pushes the demand for UN certified FIBCs in this segment
     

The flexible intermediate bulk container market based on the product type is bifurcated into Type A (Non-conductive, Non-static), Type B (Non-conductive, Limited-static), Type C (Conductive FIBCs, Grounded), and Type D (Static dissipative, No Grounding).
 

  • The type A segment is the largest segment and accounted for USD 2 billion in 2024. The increasing demand for bulk storage and transportation of seed, grain, cement and other non-flammable materials is a key growth driver of this segment. Unlike other types of FIBCs, these containers offers cost-effective solutions and are easy to manufacture in bulk. Furthermore, the rise in global trade and e-commerce applications is pushing the demand for these durable yet cost affordable bulk packaging solutions
     
  • The type B segment is the fastest growing market and is projected to grow with a CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period. The surge in demand for agrochemicals, food materials and pharmaceuticals raw material handling is pushing the demand for FIBC market as it offer reduced static handling. These containers are widely used in industries dealing with combustible dusts as these FIBCs are an cost effective upgrade from type A FIBCs.

 

U.S. Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market, 2021-2034 (USD Million)
 
  • The U.S. dominated the global flexible intermediate bulk container market, accounting for USD 985.6 million in the year 2024. The surge in demand from the pharmaceutical and food industry along with strict government regulation towards sustainable packaging is driving the growth of the market in the region. For instance, according to Statista, the revenue generated by the food industry in the U.S. accounted for USD 864 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow with a CAGR of 4.4% by 2030.  This growth pushes the demand for high performance FIBCs while meeting safety regulations.
     
  • The Canada flexible intermediate bulk container market is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 2.9% during the forecast period. The government's approach towards the ban on single-use plastic is expected to push the adoption of recyclable and biodegradable FIBCs to reduce waste and environmental impact is expected to support the market growth. Additionally, there has been an increase in the demand for agricultural bulk transportation which is influencing the region to adopt woven polypropylene bags.
     

The Europe region held 25.2% of the global flexible intermediate bulk container market share in the year 2024. The growth of Europe’s market is attributed to the ban on single use plastic by the government coupled with the shift towards sustainable and recyclable bulk bags for agricultural and industrial transportation.
 

  • The Germany market was accounted for USD 333.9 million in the year 2024. Germany has a strong presence of chemical and food industry, which fuels the demand for advanced FIBCs with barrier coatings and anti-static properties in the region. Furthermore, the country has strict regulations towards the use of eco-friendly material and recycling process which drives constant demand for the biodegradable and recyclable flexible intermediate bulk container. 
     
  • The UK flexible intermediate bulk container market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 6.3% during the forecast period. The increasing demand from bulk pharmaceutical and food industry are the main contributors to growth within the region. Additionally, Extended producer responsibility (EPR) and government regulations are compelling businesses to implement the use of certified bulk packaging which helps in market growth in the region.
     
  • The flexible intermediate bulk container industry in France is projected to reach USD 391.8 million by 2034. The market in France is heavily influenced by the strong demand for organic and premium food products, which requires high quality and food grade FIBCs.
     
  • The Italy flexible intermediate bulk container market accounted for USD 187.1 million in 2024. The government’s circular economy policies are pushing industries towards adopting sustainable and food grade FIBCs. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of these FIBCs for wine, olive, and agriculture industry is pushing the demand for flexible intermediate bulk container (FIBC).
     
  • The Spain flexible intermediate bulk container market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 5% during the forecast period. The Spain market is growing due to expansion of the tourism & hospitality industry coupled with the strict government regulations towards sustainable packaging is pushing the brands to adopt ecofriendly and biodegradable FIBCs.
     

The Asia Pacific region held 36.7% of the global market share in the year 2024. The growth is propelled by the rapid industrialization and growth in e-commerce logistics along with the increasing demand for efficient material handling.
 

  • The flexible intermediate bulk container market in China is projected to reach USD 1.6 billion by the year 2034. Stringent government regulations for plastic waste reduction are the key growth drivers in the country. Moreover, the growing demand for bulk packaging of specialized tea, traditional Chinese medicine are pushing the growth of flexible intermediate bulk containers in the region.
     
  • The Japan flexible intermediate bulk container market accounted for USD 243.7 million in 2024. Growth in the market is driven by the high demand for bulk packaging in electronics and chemical industry, which require anti-static and conductive FIBCs for material handling. Also, the rise of premium & functional beverage culture in Japan is pushing the demand for bulk transportation of tea leaves and organic beverage, which is driving adoption of flexible intermediate bulk container in the country.
     
  • The India flexible intermediate bulk container market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 8.5% during the forecast period. India is one of the largest producer and exporter of rice, spices, and pulses, which requires bulk packaging solutions. In addition, the increasing government investment towards urban development and smart cities relies on bulk container for transportation of cement, sand and other raw materials, further pushing the market growth in the region.
     

The Latin America region held 9.3% of the global flexible intermediate bulk container market share in the year 2024. The industry growth in Latin America is driven by the increasing adoption of FIBCs for agricultural and mining bulk packaging. In addition, the regulations put forward by the government encourages the adoption of biodegradable and reusable FIBCs, which further propels the growth of market in the region.
 

The MEA region held 6.6% of the global flexible intermediate bulk container market share in the year 2024. The growth of the Middle East & African region market is driven by the construction and chemical industry, where bulk packaging is essential. Moreover, government initiatives toward sustainability to mitigate plastic waste is driving the growth of biodegradable and reusable flexible intermediate bulk containers in the region.
 

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Share

The market is highly competitive and fragmented with the presence of established global players as well as local players and startups. The top 5 companies in the global flexible intermediate bulk container industry are Berry Global Group, Inc., LC Packaging International BV, Rishi FIBC Solutions, Intertape Polymer Group, and Halsted, collectively accounting for a share of 33% market share. Leading companies in the market are investing in sustainable material, biodegradable coating, and high-performance bulk packaging solutions to meet the government regulations and growing consumer preference towards sustainable packaging options. The next-generation bulk bags are focusing towards the lightweight, recyclable and anti-static materials to enhance safety, durability and efficiency for handling bulk materials across several industries such as chemical, pharmaceutical, and construction.
 

The adoption of smart manufacturing and automation is fuelling the production of the advanced FIBCs, ensuring maximum efficiency, wastage reduction and improved cost management. Additionally, Government’s initiative such as EPR programs and Europe green deal are further pushing investment towards sustainable bulk packaging solutions.
 

Berry Global is a global leader in the FIBCs market. Berry offers a wide range of durable and customized FIBCs. These are widely used by chemical, food, and fertilizer industries. Berry also has a strong presence in the market and caters the client specific FIBCs requirements, protecting product integrity and shelf life.
 

LC Packaging, a close competitor operating in the same vertical offer various innovative design and material to enhance brand image and customer experience. This firm is known for its commitment towards eco-friendly packaging solutions and offers a broad portfolio of products in the FIBCs market.
 

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Companies

The market features several prominent players, including:

  • Berry Global Group
  • LC Packaging International BV
  • Dart Container Corporation
  • Detmold Group
  • Dispo International
  • Genpak LLC
  • Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP.
  • Golden Paper Cups
     

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Industry News

  • In May 2023, FlexSack introduced its eco-friendly polypropylene FIBC, made with 30% recycled polypropylene (rPP). This sustainable bulk bag offers a drop-in replacement for traditional PP bags, maintaining cost parity and performance while promoting recyclability. Despite initial cautious reception, FlexSack's initiative aligns with broader sustainability goals, including reduced carbon emissions and production waste.
     
  • In December 2022, New Water Capital (NWC) expanded its portfolio by acquiring Bulk Lift International LLC and Bagwell Supply Ltd., two prominent North American providers of Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs). This acquisition creates one of the largest FIBC providers in North America, enhancing product offerings and supply chain solutions for industries such as food, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals
     

The flexible intermediate bulk container market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) and volume (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

By Product Type

  • Type A (Non-conductive, Non-static)
  • Type B (Non-conductive, Limited-static)
  • Type C (Conductive FIBCs, Grounded)
  • Type D (Static dissipative, No Grounding)

By Capacity

  • Upto 250 kg
  • 250kg – 750 kg
  • Above 750 kg

By End Use Industry

  • Food & Beverage
  • Chemicals
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Mining
  • Construction
  • Others

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

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

 

Authors: Suraj Gujar, Kanhaiya Kathoke
Frequently Asked Question(FAQ) :
Who are the key players in flexible intermediate bulk container industry?
Some of the major players in the industry include Berry Global Group, LC Packaging International BV, Dart Container Corporation, Detmold Group, Dispo International, Genpak LLC, Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP, Golden Paper Cups.
How big is the flexible intermediate bulk container market?
What is the size of chemical segment in the flexible intermediate bulk container industry?
How much market share captured by North America in 2024?
Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Scope
  • Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Size
  • Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Trends
  • Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Analysis
  • Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Market Share
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    Base Year: 2024

    Companies covered: 17

    Tables & Figures: 436

    Countries covered: 19

    Pages: 180

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