The global packaging industry continues to grow steadily in November 2025, driven by the combined impact of e-commerce expansion, sustainability regulations, and geopolitical trade dynamics. Data from the US Census Bureau, Eurostat, Towards Packaging, and other global trade reports show that worldwide packaging trade reached approximately $33.5 trillion, with recycled materials representing 12% of EU packaging production.
Despite challenges such as the EU PPWR 2025/40 regulations and past customs disruptions in Canada’s CARM system, preliminary figures indicate a 1–2% increase compared to October 2025, supported by holiday season demand and rising exports to ASEAN and BRICS countries.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of global packaging trade, key country insights, sustainable packaging trends, e-commerce influence, market projections, and best practices for businesses.
Global Market Overview – November 2025
- Trade Value:
Global packaging exports increased 1.5% from October 2025, reaching around $2.8 trillion, with growth concentrated in paperboard and flexible plastics. - Market Projection:
The global packaging materials market is projected to grow from $652.93 billion in 2025 to $967.36 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 4.5%. - Key Drivers:
- Sustainable Packaging: Growing environmental awareness and regulatory pressure drive the adoption of recyclable and bio-based packaging, increasing at a 6.43% CAGR.
- E-Commerce Demand: Online retail continues to boost flexible packaging (+5.07% CAGR), emphasizing lightweight, protective, and visually appealing solutions.
- Regulatory Influence: The EU PPWR 2025 (effective February 2025) increases compliance costs, slowing imports of conventional plastics by about 10%.
- Geopolitical Factors: Trade tensions and tariffs, especially between China and the US, slightly slowed exports, with October 2025 seeing a 0.8% decline in Chinese exports.
- Notable Events in November 2025:
- Kolon Plastics (South Korea) signed an MoU with Netspa to develop recycled plastics from fishing nets, enhancing sustainability in Asian packaging supply chains.
- Versalis (Italy) inaugurated the “Hoop” plant to recycle mixed plastics, increasing access to eco-friendly materials for European manufacturers.
Top Country Insights – November 2025
Preliminary data from BEA (USA), Eurostat (EU), and GACC (China) shows the following:
| Country | Exports (Nov 2025) | Imports (Nov 2025) | Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA | $180.5B (paperboard ~8.5M tons) | $265.2B (packaging ~$2.3B) | Export +0.8% vs Oct; imports stable | Major exports to Mexico/Canada; growth supported by e-commerce and clean tech packaging. Government shutdowns may slightly delay reporting. |
| China | ~$320B (paperboard ~8.4M tons) | ~$310B (plastic ~15.2M tons) | Export -0.8%; import +1.4% | Export to ASEAN +22.5%; US exports declined due to tariffs. Packaging market $218.37B in 2025, with consumer goods packaging driving import growth (+106.4B USD). |
| EU | ~$450B EUR (food packaging ~$83.64B USD) | ~$480B EUR (packaging ~$175.71B USD) | Internal trade +1.2%; recycling 12% | PPWR drives bio-based packaging (+6.7% CAGR); exports to Africa +25.9%. Market size $1.18T USD in 2025. |
Sustainable Packaging: Driving Market Growth
Sustainability has become a key driver in global packaging trade. In November 2025, companies increasingly focused on recycled and bio-based materials:
- Europe: EU PPWR regulations promote bio-based and recyclable packaging, encouraging manufacturers to reduce reliance on single-use plastics.
- Asia-Pacific: Initiatives like recycled marine plastics (Kolon Plastics) support circular supply chains in the region.
- Impact: Adoption of sustainable packaging is projected to grow at 6–7% CAGR globally, giving businesses a competitive advantage and aligning with ESG goals.
E-Commerce and Flexible Packaging Trends
E-commerce remains a major force in shaping global packaging trade:
- Flexible Packaging Growth: Lightweight plastics, pouches, and films show 5–6% CAGR, driven by reduced shipping costs and higher consumer demand.
- Custom Solutions: Businesses focus on protective and branded packaging to enhance unboxing experiences, especially in electronics, beauty, and food sectors.
- Cross-Border Trade: Exports to ASEAN, BRICS, and North America expand rapidly, with demand for eco-friendly flexible packaging outpacing traditional rigid solutions.
Best Practices for Businesses
To thrive in the evolving packaging market, companies should:
- Invest in Recycled Materials: Aligns with sustainability regulations and consumer expectations.
- Diversify Supply Chains: Reduces exposure to tariffs and geopolitical risks.
- Focus on Flexible and Custom Packaging: Meets e-commerce demand and enhances customer experience.
- Monitor Regulatory Changes: Stay ahead of rules like EU PPWR to avoid trade disruptions.
- Partner with Recyclers and Innovators: Secure high-quality sustainable materials for long-term growth.
Market Outlook – 2026 and Beyond
Looking ahead, the global packaging market is expected to:
- Grow to $967.36 billion in materials by 2034.
- Increase adoption of recycled and bio-based packaging, especially in Europe and North America.
- Shift toward circular economy models, integrating sustainable practices across the supply chain.
- Leverage digital trade platforms and e-commerce growth, particularly for flexible and customized packaging.
Businesses that adopt sustainable practices, flexible packaging solutions, and regulatory compliance strategies will be better positioned for long-term success.
Conclusion
November 2025 demonstrates a resilient global packaging market, with steady growth supported by e-commerce expansion and sustainable packaging adoption. The US, China, and EU remain key players, adapting to market shifts, regulatory challenges, and evolving consumer preferences. Companies that invest in recycled materials, innovate packaging solutions, and align with sustainability goals are best positioned to compete in this dynamic global landscape.