Global BOPP Bags Market By Product Type (Clear, Printed, Metalized, Perforated), By Thickness (Below 15 microns, 15 to 30 microns, 30 to 50 microns, Above 50 microns), By Capacity (Less than 5 kg, 5-10 kg, 10-25 kg, More than 25 kg), By End Use (Food and Beverages, Cosmetics and Personal Care, Electrical and electronics, Pharmaceuticals, Others) , By Region And Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, And Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Global BOPP Bags Market size is expected to be worth around USD 1.5 Bn by 2033, from USD 1.1 Bn in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 3.1% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033.

BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) bags are widely used for packaging due to their strength, clarity, and moisture resistance. These bags are made from BOPP film, a type of plastic produced by stretching polypropylene in two perpendicular directions.

This process enhances the material’s durability and barrier properties, making BOPP bags ideal for packaging products such as food, textiles, and consumer goods. They help maintain the freshness of products and provide effective protection against external factors like moisture, oxygen, and light.

In terms of global trade, the export value of BOPP films and bags from India alone reached USD 2.5 billion in 2023, with key markets including the United States, European Union, and Middle East. Additionally, China is the largest producer and exporter of BOPP bags, accounting for over 40% of the global export share. This trend reflects the increasing global demand for BOPP bags, particularly in the food and consumer goods sectors.

Governments worldwide are increasingly focused on reducing plastic waste and promoting recycling. The European Union, for example, has set regulations to ensure all plastic packaging on the market is recyclable or reusable by 2030. This includes the use of recyclable materials like BOPP bags.

Similarly, in India, the government is pushing for sustainable packaging solutions, offering incentives for companies that adopt eco-friendly materials such as BOPP. These initiatives align with the growing preference for BOPP bags due to their recyclable nature, supporting their continued use in packaging applications.

The BOPP packaging market is also seeing significant investments and innovations. Companies like BASF and Dow Chemicals are investing in developing advanced BOPP films with better barrier properties and eco-friendly features. In 2023, BASF invested over USD 120 million in sustainable packaging solutions, including BOPP bags.

BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) bags offer significant benefits across various industries due to their durability, moisture resistance, and excellent printing capabilities. In the food industry, BOPP bags are widely used for packaging a variety of products such as grains, pulses, rice, seeds, and animal feed.

In the agriculture sector, BOPP bags play a crucial role in packaging seeds, fertilizers, and animal feed. Their strength and resistance to environmental factors protect agricultural products during storage and transportation, helping to maintain their quality.

Similarly, the cosmetics and personal care industry utilizes BOPP bags for packaging beauty products. The bags’ aesthetic appeal, coupled with high-quality printing options, enables brands to create visually attractive packaging that enhances product visibility in the market.

Moreover, in industrial packaging, BOPP bags are employed to package dry materials such as chemicals and minerals. The strength and moisture resistance of these bags make them ideal for safeguarding products during shipping and handling, ensuring their integrity throughout the supply chain.

Key Takeaways

• BOPP Bags Market size is expected to be worth around USD 1.5 Bn by 2033, from USD 1.1 Bn in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 3.1%.
• Clear BOPP bags held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 38.2% share of the market.
• 30 to 50 microns thickness segment held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 45.4% share of the BOPP bags market.
• 10-25 kg capacity segment held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 37.6% share of the BOPP bags market.
• Food & Beverages held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 61.1% share of the BOPP bags market.
• North America held a dominant position in the BOPP bags market, capturing 34.7% of the total market share

By Product Type

In 2023, Clear BOPP bags held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 38.2% share of the market. Clear bags are widely preferred for their transparency and versatility, making them suitable for packaging a variety of products, from food to consumer goods. The demand for clear BOPP bags is largely driven by their ability to provide visibility while offering robust protection.

Printed BOPP bags, capturing a significant share of the market, offer enhanced branding opportunities. These bags are used in various industries where product visibility is key, and attractive designs help differentiate products. The increasing importance of branding and customization is propelling the growth of this segment.

The Metalized BOPP bags segment has also seen substantial growth, owing to their superior barrier properties. These bags are particularly in demand for packaging products that require protection from light, moisture, and oxygen, such as snacks and pharmaceuticals. Their ability to extend shelf life contributes to their growing adoption.

Perforated BOPP bags are a niche but emerging segment, valued for their breathability. They are commonly used for packaging fresh produce, allowing air circulation to maintain freshness. As demand for fresh and organic products rises, this segment is expected to grow steadily.

By Thickness

In 2023, the 30 to 50 microns thickness segment held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 45.4% share of the BOPP bags market. This thickness range is popular due to its balance between durability and flexibility, making it ideal for packaging a wide range of products, from food to textiles. Its ability to offer both protection and cost-effectiveness drives its widespread adoption.

The Below 15 microns segment is mainly used for lightweight packaging. These bags are often chosen for low-cost packaging applications, such as packaging small consumer goods. However, their lower durability limits their use in products that require more robust protection.

The 15 to 30 microns segment also holds a significant share of the market. Bags in this range offer a good balance between strength and transparency. They are commonly used in industries like food packaging, where clarity and lightweight properties are essential, but moderate protection is still required.

The Above 50 microns segment is typically used for heavy-duty applications. These bags are thicker and more durable, making them suitable for industrial packaging and bulk goods. Although this segment is smaller in terms of market share, its growth is driven by increasing demand for robust packaging solutions in sectors like agriculture and chemicals.

By Capacity

In 2023, the 10-25 kg capacity segment held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 37.6% share of the BOPP bags market. This capacity range is preferred for packaging products that require a balance between manageable weight and sturdiness. It is widely used for packaging agricultural products, chemicals, and other bulk goods.

The Less than 5 kg segment is primarily used for lightweight consumer goods. Bags in this range are cost-effective and commonly found in packaging for snacks, small retail items, and household products. Despite a smaller share, this segment remains important due to the growing demand for smaller, retail-ready packaging.

The 5-10 kg capacity segment serves as an intermediary for products that are not too heavy but require more durability. These bags are often used for packaging food, pet food, and other semi-bulk items. The demand for this segment is growing, driven by increasing consumption of packaged goods.

The More than 25 kg capacity segment is focused on heavy-duty applications, typically used in industries like agriculture, chemicals, and construction. While this segment holds a smaller market share, it is growing as demand for bulk packaging in industrial sectors rises.

By End Use

In 2023, Food & Beverages held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 61.1% share of the BOPP bags market. This segment remains the largest due to the high demand for packaging solutions that offer durability, protection, and visibility for food products. BOPP bags are commonly used for packaging snacks, grains, and packaged beverages, benefiting from their ability to maintain product freshness and appeal to consumers.

The Cosmetics & Personal Care segment has also seen steady growth, driven by the increasing demand for premium packaging in beauty products. BOPP bags are used for packaging a wide range of cosmetics and personal care items, including shampoos, lotions, and facial masks. The transparency and customization options of BOPP bags make them an attractive choice for the industry.

The Electrical & Electronics segment, though smaller, is expanding as BOPP bags are used for packaging components like wires, cables, and other electronic parts. These bags provide protection against dust and moisture, essential for maintaining the integrity of electronic goods during transportation and storage.

The Pharmaceuticals segment is steadily growing as well, with BOPP bags offering critical barrier properties for packaging medicines and medical supplies. The high demand for secure and sterile packaging solutions drives the use of BOPP bags in this sector.

Key Market Segments

By Product Type

• Clear
• Printed
• Metalized
• Perforated

By Thickness

• Below 15 microns
• 15 to 30 microns
• 30 to 50 microns
• Above 50 microns

By Capacity

• Less than 5 kg
• 5-10 kg
• 10-25 kg
• More than 25 kg

By End Use

• Food & Beverages
• Cosmetics & Personal Care
• Electrical & electronics
• Pharmaceuticals
• Others

Drivers

Increasing Demand in the Food & Beverage Industry

One of the major driving factors for the growth of the BOPP bags market is the increasing demand for flexible and durable packaging in the food and beverage industry.

BOPP bags are highly favored in this sector for their ability to preserve product freshness, enhance shelf life, and offer customization options for branding. The rise in consumer demand for packaged food and beverages, especially in emerging markets, is driving significant growth in this segment.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global food trade has expanded significantly, with global food exports reaching USD 1.8 trillion in 2023. This growth is supported by a shift in consumer behavior towards more convenient and ready-to-eat food options.

Packaged food, including snacks, grains, and beverages, accounts for a significant share of this market. The demand for BOPP bags in the food industry has increased due to their transparency, moisture resistance, and ability to keep products fresh for longer periods.

Government Initiatives Promoting Sustainable Packaging

Government initiatives and regulations are also playing a crucial role in promoting the adoption of BOPP bags, particularly due to their environmental benefits compared to other types of plastic packaging. In several countries, the emphasis on reducing single-use plastics and promoting sustainable alternatives has led to a surge in demand for BOPP bags, which are considered more sustainable due to their recyclability.

In 2023, the European Union implemented new regulations targeting packaging waste, aiming to reduce plastic waste and increase recycling rates. The EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan, which includes measures to make all packaging in the region recyclable or reusable by 2030, is driving companies to adopt more sustainable packaging solutions, such as BOPP bags.

According to a report from the European Commission, over 60% of packaging waste in the EU is recycled, and BOPP bags, being easily recyclable, are increasingly being used in the food industry to meet these sustainability goals.

Shift Towards Consumer-Preferred Packaging Solutions

Consumer preference is another key driving factor for the growth of the BOPP bags market. With an increasing focus on product visibility and enhanced branding, BOPP bags have become a preferred choice for food and beverage packaging.

Consumers are looking for packaging that not only preserves the quality of the product but also offers aesthetic appeal. BOPP bags provide excellent printability, allowing manufacturers to print attractive designs, nutritional information, and branding messages that appeal to consumers.

In 2023, the global packaged food market was valued at approximately USD 2.9 trillion, according to the International Food Information Council (IFIC). The growing demand for packaged food products, combined with consumer preferences for high-quality, visually appealing packaging, is driving the use of BOPP bags.

Companies like Coca-Cola and Unilever have invested heavily in upgrading their packaging to enhance product appeal and meet consumer expectations. Coca-Cola, for example, has committed to making 100% of its packaging recyclable by 2025, with a focus on using BOPP bags for their lightweight, durable, and visually attractive properties.

Restraints

Environmental Concerns and the Push for Biodegradable Alternatives

A significant restraining factor for the BOPP bags market is the growing environmental concerns related to plastic packaging. Despite BOPP bags being recyclable, they are still made from polypropylene, a type of plastic that, when improperly disposed of, contributes to plastic waste.

With increasing awareness around plastic pollution, both consumers and governments are pushing for more sustainable and biodegradable packaging solutions. This trend is creating challenges for the growth of the BOPP bags market, as companies and industries are pressured to adopt environmentally friendly alternatives.

According to a report from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), over 300 million tons of plastic are produced globally every year, with nearly 10 million tons of plastic entering the oceans annually. This has prompted governments around the world to tighten regulations on plastic waste.

In the European Union, new regulations are set to phase out single-use plastics, with an emphasis on increasing the use of biodegradable and recyclable materials. In 2023, the European Commission announced that 50% of plastic packaging must be recycled by 2025, putting further pressure on industries using conventional plastic-based products like BOPP bags.

Government Regulations on Plastic Waste

Governments worldwide are implementing stricter regulations to reduce plastic waste, which is directly impacting the demand for BOPP bags. In India, for instance, the government has introduced a ban on single-use plastics in various states, which includes many plastic packaging materials commonly used in the food and beverage industry.

The Indian Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has set ambitious goals to reduce plastic waste by promoting alternatives like biodegradable and compostable packaging.

In 2023, the Indian government announced a new set of rules under the Plastic Waste Management Amendment, which mandates the use of recyclable or compostable materials for packaging. These regulations are expected to affect the market for plastic-based bags like BOPP, as companies seek to comply with the new laws by switching to more sustainable options.

This regulatory shift is being felt across several industries, including food packaging, where companies like PepsiCo and Nestlé, which use BOPP bags for packaging food products, are already exploring alternatives to align with these new environmental standards.

Rising Costs of Raw Materials and Recycling Challenges

The rising cost of raw materials used to manufacture BOPP bags is another major restraint. The price of polypropylene, the primary raw material for BOPP bags, is subject to fluctuations in the global oil market, which can significantly affect production costs.

In 2023, the global price of polypropylene increased by approximately 15% due to rising crude oil prices. As a result, the cost of producing BOPP bags has gone up, making them less cost-effective compared to alternative packaging options, especially in industries where cost reduction is a critical factor.

In addition, while BOPP bags are recyclable, the recycling process itself is not always efficient. Only 30% of plastic waste in the U.S. is recycled, and polypropylene has lower recycling rates compared to other plastics like PET.

This inefficiency in recycling further contributes to the environmental problem and adds to the criticism of BOPP bags. Industries that rely on BOPP bags are facing increasing pressure to address these challenges by adopting more sustainable and cost-efficient alternatives.

Opportunity

Expansion of E-commerce and Online Food Delivery

One of the significant growth opportunities for the BOPP bags market lies in the expansion of e-commerce and online food delivery services. With the increasing trend toward online shopping, especially in the food and beverage industry, the demand for packaging solutions that ensure product safety, visibility, and freshness during transit is growing.

BOPP bags are particularly well-suited for e-commerce, offering durability, transparency, and lightweight features that make them ideal for shipping food products.

According to a report by Statista, the global e-commerce market was valued at approximately USD 5.7 trillion in 2022, and it is expected to grow to USD 8.1 trillion by 2026. As more consumers shift to online food ordering, the need for robust packaging solutions to ensure that food products arrive in good condition has increased.

Companies like Domino’s Pizza and McDonald’s are embracing packaging solutions like BOPP bags for packaging ingredients and pre-packaged meals due to their moisture resistance and ability to preserve freshness.

Adoption of Sustainable Packaging Initiatives

The growing global trend toward sustainability presents a significant growth opportunity for the BOPP bags market. Governments around the world are promoting sustainability through regulations and incentives for eco-friendly packaging, which is driving industries to adopt recyclable and biodegradable solutions. BOPP bags, being recyclable, align with these government policies and consumer preferences for sustainable products.

In 2023, the European Union continued to push for sustainable packaging through the Circular Economy Action Plan, which mandates that all packaging in the EU should be recyclable or reusable by 2030.

This regulation has prompted food companies such as Nestlé and Coca-Cola to adopt BOPP bags for packaging. Nestlé, for example, committed to making 100% of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025. The company uses BOPP bags for many of its food products, citing their recyclability and cost-efficiency as key benefits.

Growth in the Organic and Premium Food Segments

The increasing consumer preference for organic and premium food products is another major growth opportunity for the BOPP bags market. As consumers become more health-conscious and demand higher-quality food products, companies in the food and beverage industry are focusing on premium packaging that preserves product quality and provides an appealing aesthetic.

As more consumers opt for organic products, packaging solutions like BOPP bags are being used to maintain the quality and shelf life of organic items, which are often more sensitive to environmental factors. In fact, brands like Whole Foods and Sprouts Farmers Market are increasingly using BOPP bags for organic products, highlighting the material’s role in packaging premium and organic foods.

Trends

Increasing Demand for Sustainable Packaging Solutions

A significant trend in the BOPP bags market is the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions. With growing concerns over environmental impact and plastic waste, food companies are increasingly seeking alternatives that align with both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for eco-friendly products. The push for sustainability is driven by government regulations, consumer preferences, and the need for companies to maintain their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) credentials.

In 2023, the European Union continued to implement stricter sustainability regulations, including the Circular Economy Action Plan, which mandates that all packaging be recyclable or reusable by 2030. As part of these efforts, brands like Nestlé and Unilever are prioritizing the use of recyclable materials in their packaging.

Nestlé, for example, aims to make 100% of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025. The company already uses BOPP bags for certain product lines, such as cereals and snacks, which require packaging that is both sustainable and cost-effective. Similarly, Coca-Cola has committed to using more sustainable packaging and is transitioning to BOPP bags for products where environmental concerns are paramount, citing the recyclability and durability of BOPP bags as key advantages.

Adoption of Digital Printing for Enhanced Branding

Another prominent trend is the adoption of digital printing technology in the production of BOPP bags, which is enabling food brands to enhance their packaging designs. The trend toward digital printing is largely driven by consumer demand for personalized, eye-catching packaging that offers a better brand experience. As packaging becomes an increasingly important part of a brand’s identity, companies are leveraging advanced printing techniques to make their products stand out on the shelves.

In 2023, PepsiCo launched a new line of snacks in recyclable BOPP bags featuring bold, high-definition digital prints. The company reported that digital printing allowed them to run shorter, more customized print runs, making it easier to adjust packaging designs based on seasonal promotions or regional preferences. Similarly, snack companies like Pringles have utilized digital printing for BOPP bags to introduce limited-edition flavors and packaging designs, effectively tapping into consumer demand for novelty products.

Growth in E-commerce and Online Food Delivery Packaging

The rapid expansion of e-commerce, particularly in the food and beverage sector, is another major trend impacting the BOPP bags market. As more consumers turn to online shopping and food delivery services, companies are increasingly looking for packaging solutions that can protect products during transit while maintaining product freshness and appeal. BOPP bags, with their moisture resistance and durability, are well-suited for this growing segment.

This surge in online food ordering has created new packaging requirements, with food delivery companies seeking solutions that offer both protection and a premium presentation.

For example, companies like Domino’s and McDonald’s have adopted BOPP bags for packaging food items that need to remain fresh and intact during long-distance delivery. BOPP bags are ideal for packaging dry food ingredients, snacks, and beverages, which are increasingly part of online grocery orders.

Regional Analysis

In 2023, North America held a dominant position in the BOPP bags market, capturing 34.7% of the total market share, valued at approximately USD 0.4 billion. The region’s significant market share can be attributed to the high demand for packaging solutions across various industries, particularly the food and beverage sector, which is one of the largest consumers of BOPP bags.

Stringent regulations and a strong focus on sustainable packaging are further boosting the adoption of BOPP bags in the region. The U.S. continues to be the largest market in North America, driven by the increasing preference for recyclable and eco-friendly packaging among both manufacturers and consumers.

Europe follows closely behind, with a market share. The European market is experiencing substantial growth due to the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions driven by government initiatives and strict environmental regulations such as the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan. Leading brands in the region, particularly in the food and consumer goods industries, are focusing on using recyclable materials like BOPP to comply with sustainability targets.

In the Asia Pacific region of the global BOPP bags market, the growing adoption of e-commerce and the rapid expansion of the food and beverage industry are the key growth drivers. Countries like China and India are witnessing significant demand due to their large consumer bases and the increasing focus on packaged food products.

Middle East & Africa and Latin America hold smaller market shares, with Middle East & Africa accounting for 8.4% and Latin America for 6.5%. These regions are growing steadily, with increasing industrialization and urbanization driving the demand for packaging solutions in food and retail sectors.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

Top Key Players in the Market

• United Bags Inc.
• Manyan Inc.
• LC Packaging
• Berry Global Inc.
• Umasree Texplast
• Cosmos Films Ltd.
• Indra Industries Ltd.
• Abdos Polymers Ltd.
• Hanoi Plastic Bag JSC
• Aangan Agrotech Exports Limited
• TAGHLEEF INDUSTRIES GROUP
• Inteplast Group
• POLİBAK PLASTİK
• SIBUR
• Political SA
• UFlex Limited
• Toray Plastics (America), Inc.
• SRF Limited
• NAN YA PLASTICS CORPORATION

Recent Developments

In 2024 United Bags Inc., the company plans to expand its production capacity by 15% to meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging, particularly in North America and Europe, where regulations are pushing brands to adopt more eco-conscious solutions.

In 2024, Manyan Inc. plans to invest USD 20 million to upgrade its production facilities, aiming to enhance its capabilities in producing more eco-friendly and biodegradable BOPP bags.

Report Scope