Nonwoven Packaging Market Size - By Technology, By Material Type, By Product Type, and By End Use Industry - Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Nonwoven Packaging Market Size

The global nonwoven packaging market was valued at USD 3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.6% to reach USD 6.9 billion by 2034. The growth of the nonwoven packaging industry is attributed to factors such as the growth in e-commerce and retail industry coupled with the rising demand for sustainable packaging.
 

The rising demand for sustainable packaging is a key growth driver in the nonwoven packaging industry. The single-use plastic ban alongside rising government policies on managing plastic waste is rapidly increasing the use of nonwoven packing among both businesses and consumers. Non-woven packaging are commonly produced with polypropylene (PP) or biodegradable fibers and are a light and durable replacement for single-use plastics. Non-woven packages are recyclable, reusable, and biodegradable complementing the trend to minimize plastic usage and decrease environmental footprint worldwide. Governments and legislative bodies across the globe are supporting sustainable alternatives, thereby accelerating demand for non-woven pouches, wraps, and bags. Moreover, the shift in customers preference for sustainable packaging further fuels the demand for nonwoven market.
 

Nonwoven packaging manufacturers need to prioritize the creation of biodegradable, recyclable, and environment-friendly solutions as a response to growing government controls over plastic waste as well as the rising demand for sustainable packaging from consumers. Growing product portfolios in pouches, wraps, and bags will fuel market growth.
 

The growth in E-commerce and retail industry is pushing the demand for nonwoven packaging solutions. These nonwoven packaging offers enhanced durability, lightweight, and cost-effective solutions compare to traditional plastics packaging. 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. Alongside these shifts in consumer behaviour, businesses are quickly transitioning toward nonwoven materials for economy shipping bags, protective wraps, and reusable shopping totes. Moreover, these materials can be used in soft packaging due to their high tensile strength and tear resistance, while meeting the sustainability compliances.
 

Nonwoven packaging producers need to focus on the increasing e-commerce and retail markets by providing light weight, rugged, and economical packaging options. Diversifying economy shipping bags, protective wrapping, and reusable tote lines will address increasing demand and sustainability regulation needs.
 

Nonwoven Packaging Market Trends

• One of the major trends observed in the nonwoven packaging industry is the increasing use of recycled materials. Manufacturers are integrating post-consumer and post-industrial waste into the manufacturing process in order to reduce environmental impact and decrease virgin raw material dependency. The trend supports sustainability objectives and circular economy strategies, reducing carbon footprints and encouraging resource efficiency. With increasing demand for green packaging solutions, firms are investing in cutting-edge recycling technologies to improve the quality and strength of non-woven products while keeping costs low.
   
• Another significant trend in the nonwoven packaging industry is the integration of smart technologies in nonwoven bags. Brands are incorporating QR codes, RFID tags to offer enhanced consumer engagement and brand visibility.
   
• The increasing demand for antimicrobial nonwoven packaging for health sensitive goods is another key trend in nonwoven packaging industry. This trend is specifically observed in Asia Pacific and North America region, where consumer awareness of contamination risks and demand for safe and long-lasting packaging solutions is pushing adoption among manufacturers.
   

Nonwoven Packaging Market Analysis

The nonwoven packaging industry based on the material type is bifurcated into polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyester (PET), rayon, and others.
 

• The polypropylene (PP) type material is the largest market and was valued at USD 1.1 billion in 2024. The cost-effective production and high versatility of these materials make them ideal for the production of bags, wraps and protective covers. Also, the growing demand for healthcare and personal care products is driving the adoption of these polypropylene materials, due to their lightweight, antimicrobial, and moisture resistant properties. Additionally, the growing demand for spunbond technology supports the growth of these materials, as polypropylene serves as the primary material.  
   
• The polyethylene (PE) type material is the fastest growing market and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.8% during the forecast period. These polyethylene materials provided superior flexibility and moisture resistance, and are widely used for food packaging, agriculture covers, and protective wraps. Also, these materials are available in various forms such as LDPE and HPDE and therefore can be used as per requirements and applications. Furthermore, these PE based packaging is gaining rapid traction in baby care, hygienic and cosmetics applications, as it offers safety profile and soft textures.
   

The nonwoven packaging market based on the product type is bifurcated into bags, wraps, sachets, and others.
 

• The bags type products is the largest market and was valued at USD 1.3 billion in 2024. The growth of this segment is driven by the rising demand for sustainable packaging in retail and grocery stores.  They are considered an ideal alternative to plastic bags because these bags are reusable and recyclable. The government regulations towards ban on single use plastic is driving the adoption of ecofriendly nonwoven bags across several industries. Moreover, the increasing popularity of e-commerce coupled with retail shopping is driving the demand for nonwoven bags which are lightweight and strong. In addition, nonwoven bags are being utilized as promotional items and packaging in order to strengthen brand recognition.
   
• The wraps type products is the fastest growing market and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.6% during the forecast period. The growth of this segment is driven by the rapid adoption of these nonwoven wraps in the food packaging industry, especially in bakery, fresh produce and meat products, as these wraps can maintain freshness and prevent contamination. Additionally, these wraps offers superior moisture resistance, breathability, and cost efficient packaging, which is driving rapid adoption of nonwoven wraps in packaging of pharmaceutical and hygiene products.
   

The nonwoven packaging market based on the technology is bifurcated into spunbond, meltblown, airlaid, wetlaid, needle punch, and others.
 

• The spunbond technology is the largest market and was valued at USD 759.8 million in 2024. Spunbond nonwoven offers superior strength and durability along with the cost-effective mass production, making them an ideal choice for manufacturers. These nonwoven materials find extensive application in e-commerce and retail for shopping bags, totes, and other packaging materials. Moreover, with the shift in consumer preferences for sustainable packaging solutions, these nonwoven packaging are gaining rapid traction as a recyclable and reusable alternative to plastics.
   
• The meltblown technology is the fastest growing market and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.9% during the forecast period. The surge in demand for pharmaceuticals and medical packaging is a major growth driver for this segment, as meltblown nonwoven packaging offers fine fibre structure, and high absorbency, required for sensitive packaging. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of meltblown nonwoven packaging in consumer goods, food, and electronics industry for breathable and moisture resistant packaging pushes the growth of this segment.
   

The nonwoven packaging market based on the end-use industry is bifurcated into food & beverage, healthcare, consumer goods, industrial, agriculture, retail and others.
 

• The food & beverage industry segment is the largest market and was valued at USD 868 million in 2024. The growth of the segment can be attributed to changes in customer preference towards eco-friendly packaging as well as the rise in government policies aimed at reducing plastic waste. Additionally, nonwoven packaging are gaining rapid traction in food packaging as it offers moisture resistance, antimicrobial properties, and extended shelf life of product, while complying with food safety standards.
   
• The healthcare industry is the fastest growing market and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.5% during the forecast period. The surge in demand for sterile and hygienic packaging for medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, surgical products is pushing the demand for nonwoven packaging in the healthcare industry. Moreover, the global health authorities such as FDA, WHO are mandating sterile and disposable packaging, which require nonwoven materials coupled with the advancement in antimicrobial coatings and smart packaging solutions is driving the rapid adoption of nonwoven packaging in the healthcare industry.
   

The North American region accounted for 35.3% of the global nonwoven packaging market share in the year 2024.  The increasing demand for lightweight, durable, and recyclable packaging solutions are some major drivers in this region. In addition, government regulation around the use of eco-friendly packaging materials alongside the ban on single-use plastics is encouraging the region’s consumption of nonwoven packaging solutions.
 

• The U.S. dominated the global nonwoven packaging industry, accounting for USD 941.7 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 864.0 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow with a CAGR of 4.4% by 2030.  This growth pushes the demand for breathable and moisture resistant nonwoven packaging while meeting safety regulations.
   
• The Canada market is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 6.2% 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 nonwoven packaging to reduce waste and environmental impact is expected to support the market growth. Additionally, there has been an increase in the demand for healthcare and personal care industry which is influencing the region to adopt nonwoven packaging solutions.
   

The Europe region held 22.2% of the global nonwoven market share in the year 2024. The growth of Europe’s nonwoven packaging industry is attributed to the ban on single use plastic by the government coupled with the shift towards sustainable packaging solution in food, retail, and healthcare industry.
 

• The Germany nonwoven packaging market was accounted for USD 187.1 million in the year 2024. Germany has a strong presence of industrial and healthcare industries, which fuels the demand for durable and high-performance nonwoven packaging in the region. Furthermore, the country has strict regulations towards the use of eco-friendly material and recycling process which is pushing the adoption of multilayered nonwoven packaging solutions. 
   
• The UK nonwoven market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 8.3% during the forecast period. The surge in online and retail shopping along with the growing demand for sustainable packaging 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 nonwoven packaging solutions which helps in market growth in the region.
   
• The market in France is projected to reach USD 265.2 million by 2034. The nonwoven packaging industry in France is heavily influenced by the strong demand for high end and premium packaging of food, cosmetics, and wine industry. Furthermore, the increasing government policies for plastic waste management is driving adoption of the biodegradable, breathable and reusable nonwoven bags and wraps in the region.
   
• The Italy nonwoven packaging industry accounted for USD 82.3 million in 2024. The government’s circular economy policies are pushing industries towards adopting sustainable packaging in food and agriculture industry. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of nonwoven packaging solutions for wine, olive oil, and agriculture industry is pushing the market growth in the region.
   
• The Spain market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period. The Spain market is growing due to expansion of supermarket and online grocery delivery, coupled with the strict government regulations towards sustainable packaging is pushing the brands to adopt biodegradable nonwoven materials.
   

The Asia Pacific region held 29.5% of the global nonwoven packaging market share in the year 2024. The growth is propelled by the rapid urbanization, growth in e-commerce industry along with the increasing demand for lightweight yet strong packaging.
 

• The nonwoven market in China is projected to reach USD 976.6 billion by the year 2034. Stringent government regulations for plastic waste reduction along with the shift towards sustainable e-commerce packaging are the key growth drivers in the country. Moreover, the growing demand for packaged food, traditional Chinese medicine, and tea export are pushing the growth of nonwoven packaging industry in the region.
   
• The Japan market accounted for USD 136.6 million in 2024. Growth in the nonwoven packaging industry is driven by the high demand for premium and protective packaging in electronics and food industry, which require smart & antimicrobial nonwoven packaging. Also, the rise of premium & functional beverage culture in Japan is pushing the demand for which require nonwoven pouches and moisture resistant packaging, which is driving adoption of nonwoven packaging in the country.
   
• The India market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 11.9% during the forecast period. India is one of the largest producer and exporter of rice, spices, and pulses, which requires cost effective, durable and ecofriendly packaging solutions. In addition, the increasing government regulations towards sustainable packaging coupled with the growth in e-commerce industry, further pushes the adoption of nonwoven packaging industry in the region.
   

The Latin America region held 3.6% of the global nonwoven packaging market share in the year 2024. The industry growth in Latin America is driven by the increasing demand for cost effective packaging in the agriculture, food export, and retail industry. In addition, the regulations put forward by the government encourages the adoption of biodegradable and reusable nonwoven packaging solutions, which further propels the growth of market in the region.
 

The MEA region held 9.4% of the global market share in the year 2024. The growth of the Middle East & African region nonwoven packaging industry is driven by the expansion of retail supermarkets and food service industry, where nonwoven bags, wraps, and food safe packaging is essential. Moreover, government initiatives toward sustainability to mitigate plastic waste is driving the growth of recyclable and reusable market in the region.
 

Nonwoven Packaging Market Share

The nonwoven packaging industry 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 market are Ahlstrom, ANDRITZ, Toray Industries, and Felix Nonwovens that collectively held a share of over 20% market share. Leading companies in the market are investing in recyclable material, biodegradable coating, and high-performance nonwoven packaging solutions to meet the government regulations and growing consumer preference towards sustainable packaging options. The next-generation nonwoven packaging solutions are focusing towards the lightweight, moisture resistant and breathable materials to cater various industries such as food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care packaging. Moreover, the advancement of antimicrobial and temperature resistant nonwoven packaging is gaining rapid traction in healthcare and fresh goods packaging applications.
 

Ahlstrom is a global leader in the nonwoven packaging industry. Ahlstrom offers a wide range of ecofriendly packaging alternatives made from sourced fibres. This company offers products such as BioSpun, which are made from polylactic acids and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
 

Andritz, a close competitor operating in the same vertical offer various technology such as airlaid and mill to web processes, to enhance the quality of nonwoven materials. This firm also partnered with PulPac and Dry moulded fiber technology to provide recyclable and biodegradable packaging solutions.
 

Nonwoven Packaging Market Companies

The nonwoven packaging industry features several prominent players, including:

• Ahlstrom
• ANDRITZ
• Aster srl
• BENZ Packaging
• CK Fabrics
• Felix Nonwovens
• Jayashree Spun Bond
   

Nonwoven Packaging Industry News

• In January 2024, Mitsui Chemicals Asahi Life Materials Co. Ltd unveiled the Ecorise PLA spunbond nonwoven material in Tokyo. This material has been adopted as packaging material for tennis racquets sold by sports goods giant, Yonex.
   
• In November 2024, Valmet announced the integration of the IQ quality control system for the sustainable packaging and nonwoven packaging industry. This IQ system has the capability to measure component, color, and ash content with precision. It can also optimize the amount of raw material used and offer greater efficiency along with a lower carbon footprint.
   
• In September 2024, Asahi Kasei officially launched a new grade of flame retardant nonwoven fabric. This solution provides thermal runaway protection that can be applied in top covers and other usage in the EV battery pack.
   

The nonwoven packaging market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) and volume (Kilo Tons) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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By Material Type

• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyester (PET)
• Rayon
• Others

By Product Type

• Bags
• Wraps
• Sachets
• Others

By Technology

• Spunbond
• Meltblown
• Airlaid
• Wetlaid
• Needle punch    
• Others

By End Use Industry

• Food & beverage
• Healthcare
• Consumer goods
• Industrial
• Agriculture
• Retail
• 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