USD 7.2 billion
Report ID:
SQMIG15E2745 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: June, 2025
Pages:
193
|Tables:
94
|Figures:
71
Global Packaging Inks And Coatings Market size was valued at USD 7.2 billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 7.61 billion in 2024 to USD 11.86 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period (2025-2032).
The global packaging inks and coatings market is changing fast, mostly due to sustainability at the end-use industry level. As sectors like food and beverage, healthcare, and e-commerce industries started responding to stricter regulations and growing consumer awareness, there is increasing demand for low-VOC, bio-based, and recyclable formulations. Due to this, sustainability has become the number one principal driver of what shapes research and development investment, and partnerships across the value chain.
One of the key trends driving the global packaging inks and coatings market is sustainability. Digital printing technologies are in the process of proliferating in the packaging sector especially with on-demand or variable-data printing, which creates further opportunity for customization and de-materialization. Similarly, UV and electron-beam curable inks are making progress based on cure speed, energy efficiency during manufacturing, and with little to no solvent used. The growth of e-commerce has also brought the need for durable coatings that are visually appealing in addition to providing shelf-life improvements and brand differentiation. Functional and smart coatings (antimicrobial and barrier technologies) that add value to packaging, especially in terms of food safety or product preservation, are also on the rise. Strategic M&A partnerships are also reshaping the competitive landscape, as leading players consolidate to expand sustainable and digital offerings.
How AI Enables Innovative Formulation and Drives Efficiency in the Global Packaging Inks and Coatings Market?
Artificial intelligence revolutionizes formulation development by enabling predictive performance modelling and narrowing experimental permutations. With the help of AI-based platforms, formulators can leverage large chemical libraries to quickly identify the best recipes for their formulations that achieve performance, cost, and sustainability objectives. For example, Coatings World reported on March 2025 that companies that are using AI and machine-learning technology to develop formulations for inks and coatings reduced their R&D cycle times by 50 percent, while also providing green credentials by precisely optimizing the raw materials used in their products. This will ultimately accelerate time to market and help address new packaging challenges with custom solutions.
As recent as March 19, 2025, FastFormulator Inc's AI-based formulation tool was reported to reduce the number of experimental trials completed from 100 down to just five trials, which improved development timelines and resource requirements, demonstrating AI's impact on innovation in packaging inks. This is clearly showing that AI is creating efficiencies that were previously inconceivable across R&D and compliance functions. Machine learning-based platforms can develop AI regression models to predict optimal formulation parameters such as viscosity at ease, adhesion, and curing profile, based on access to extensive chemical libraries, as performance data continues to grow. Most importantly, this predictive capacity erases a great deal of trial and error, speeds up eco-friendly chemistries, and encourages circular economies by creating formulations specific to recyclable substrates.
Market snapshot - 2025-2032
Global Market Size
USD 7.2 billion
Largest Segment
Water-Borne
Fastest Growth
Solvent-Borne
Growth Rate
5.7% CAGR
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Global Packaging Inks And Coatings Market is segmented by Type, Technology, Application and region. Based on Type, the market is segmented into Flexible Plastic, Rigid Plastic, Metal and Paper. Based on Technology, the market is segmented into Water-Based Inks, Solvent-Based Inks, UV-Curable Inks, Electron Beam-Curable Inks and Other Technologies. Based on Application, the market is segmented into Advertising, Electronic, Retail and Other. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.
Water-Borne inks dominate the global packaging inks and coatings market, as stringent Volatile Organic Compounds regulations and corporate sustainability targets drive widespread adoption. Their low VOC profile meets both regulatory and consumer demands for greener packaging while offering excellent adhesion on paperboard and plastic substrates. Major suppliers have boosted investment in advanced water-based formulations that balance performance with circular-economy goals, cementing water-borne’s leadership in R&D pipelines and commercial output.
Energy-curable, that is, UV and electron-beam inks, are expanding fastest within the global packaging inks and coatings market. Their near instant curing accelerates production speeds and slashes energy use versus solvent systems. Coupled with solvent-free formulations, UV/EB inks deliver high-definition print and robust barrier properties which are critical for e-commerce packaging, and high throughput lines. As converters prioritize throughput and sustainability, investment in UV/EB capacity and tailored photo initiators is rapidly scaling.
Flexographic printing remains the dominating segment in the global packaging inks and coatings market, dominating this segment thanks to its versatility and cost efficiency. Flexo presses accommodate a full range of substrates, from corrugated board to shrink film and with low-ink viscosity and quick dry times that minimize waste. Their ability to produce long runs at consistent quality and cost-per-unit leads flexo’s strength, particularly in food, beverage, and consumer goods packaging where margins are a great concern.
Digital printing is the largest growing printing process within the global packaging ink and coatings market as brands want short runs, versioning, and quick time-to-market. Recent developments in reliability on the inkjet head and greater flexibility for a wider range of substrates have embraced dynamic packaging (i.e. individual personalization). This growth is fueled by the e-commerce boom and retailers’ push for on-demand, variable-data printing that cuts inventory and obsolescence, trends only accelerating digital ascent.
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As per the global packaging inks and coatings market analysis, North America dominates the industry with its robust demand from food, beverage, and pharmaceutical packaging, which drives growth, bolstered by strict VOC regulations, and an environmentally conscious push for sustainable, low-VOC formulations. Rapid e-commerce expansion further intensifies the need for durable, high-definition inks that preserve brand image during transit. Major players continue to invest in R&D for bio-based coatings and digital printing solutions, reinforcing North America’s dominant position.
The U.S. country dominates the North American packaging inks and coatings market through its focus on accelerating adoption of eco-friendly chemistries and advanced digital printing. American manufacturers are prioritizing bio-based and UV-curable inks to meet aggressive sustainability targets and consumer demand for recyclable packaging. In response, leading suppliers have expanded North American R&D centers, integrating AI-driven formulation tools to tailor low-VOC coatings for high-speed flexo and digital presses, ensuring rapid time-to-market without compromising performance.
North America packaging inks and coatings market forecast predict Canada to be the fastest growing country in the North American packaging inks and coatings market, as converters shift toward water-based and dual-curing UV-LED systems. For instance, in June 2025, Flint Group opened a state-of-the-art Montreal distribution center, stocking water-based, UV-curable, and UV-LED dual-cure inks and coatings. This facility enhances regional supply chain resilience and supports quick delivery of sustainable formulations to meet Canada’s stringent environmental standards, and growing e-commerce packaging needs.
Asia-Pacific is projected to expand at the highest rate in the global packaging inks and coatings market, driven by booming e-commerce, rapid urbanization, and rising disposable incomes in emerging economies. The food and pharmaceutical sectors in Southeast Asia fuel demand for high-barrier coatings and antimicrobial inks. Technological investments, especially in digital inkjet, UV/EB-curable, and solvent-free formulations, address local regulatory pushes toward low-VOC and bio-based chemistries. Additionally, government incentives for Industry 4.0 adoption accelerate integration of AI and IoT in packaging lines, boosting throughput and quality control.
Japan remains the largest Asia-Pacific packaging inks and coatings market, sustained by stringent food-contact regulations and consumer preference for premium packaging. Domestic producers have intensified development of direct-food-contact-compliant coatings. For example, DIC’s HYDRECT interior coatings, manufactured in Japan to meet high-quality direct-food-contact standards offer enhanced barrier properties and recyclability, supporting both food safety and circular-economy goals. This innovation underpins Japan’s leadership in sustainable packaging solutions.
South Korea’s is Asia Pacific packaging inks and coatings market’s fastest-growing country. Asia Pacific packaging inks and coatings market growth is fueled by a world-leading consumer electronics and automotive manufacturing base that demands high-performance, specialty formulations. Rapid expansion of premium cosmetics and pharmaceutical packaging further drives uptake of smart and barrier coatings. In April 2025, DuPont showcased silver nanowire, enhanced inks at Electronics Manufacturing Korea in Seoul addressing local converters’ need for ultra-clear, conductive coatings in high-value electronics packaging and accelerating the adoption of advanced formulations across the market.
The Middle East & Africa region is emerging consistently in the global packaging inks and coatings market due to rapid urbanization, infrastructure investment, and rising disposable incomes, especially in Gulf Cooperation Council states and North African economies. Retail expansion and growth in foodservice sectors are fueling demand for innovative, low-VOC packaging inks and coatings. Governments are offering incentives for industrial diversification, and converters are upgrading to water-based and UV/EB systems to meet environmental regulations. Collectively, these factors create a nascent market with significant room for expansion.
The UAE dominates Middle East & Africa’s packaging inks and coatings market, driven by its strategic trade hub status, robust logistics infrastructure, and ambitious sustainability agendas across free zones like Jebel Ali. Rapid retail and foodservice sector growth in Dubai and Abu Dhabi has spurred demand for high-performance, low-VOC coatings that meet stringent Gulf Cooperation Council environmental standards. Major converters are investing in water-based and UV-curable systems to cater to luxury goods and perishable exports. In May 2025, DELTA Coatings International broke ground on a new Dubai Industrial City facility—tripling capacity and integrating rooftop solar to advance decarbonization—further reinforcing the UAE’s position as a regional sustainable-coatings hub.
South Africa’s packaging inks and coatings market is rapidly expanding, buoyed by a diversified manufacturing base spanning automotive, pharmaceuticals, and fast-moving consumer goods. Converters are transitioning to water-based systems for paperboard and barrier coatings for flexible packaging, driven by national regulations favoring low-VOC formulations. Robust local chemical distribution networks and growing demand for sustainable packaging in retail and e-commerce further support growth. In June 2024, Azelis’ acquisition of CPS Chemicals bolstered regional supply chains and technical support, enhancing access to high-performance coatings and reinforcing South Africa’s role as a regional innovation hub.
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Rising Emphasis on Sustainability & Ecologically Friendly options
Establishment of E-Commerce and Customization Needs as the New Normal
Raw Material Price Volatility
High Capital Expenditure Requirements
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The competitive landscape of the global packaging inks and coatings market trends is defined by leading multinationals deploying targeted sustainability frameworks and strategic portfolio expansions. Sun Chemical’s “5Rs” approach Reuse, Reduce, Renew, Recycle, Redesign, directs its R&D into low-VOC, UV-curable systems and deep collaborations with brand owners to meet circular-economy mandates. DIC Corporation has broadened its specialty pigments and adhesives portfolio through marquee acquisitions (e.g., BASF’s Global Pigments business in 2021) and by inaugurating toluene-free liquid-ink plants in India to satisfy regional regulations and bolster global supply resilience.
The global packaging inks and coatings market is also experiencing a growing number of specialized startups, which are carving high-value niches with breakthrough coatings tailored to emerging performance and environmental demands. Earthodic, founded in 2022, offers “Paperbarc,” a bio-based waterproof coating for paper packaging, recently completing commercial-scale trials and securing USDA Biobased Product Label certification. Nfinite Nanotech, established in 2021, has raised $10 million to commercialize an ultrathin, high-performance barrier coating that maintains recyclability and extends shelf life, backed by pilot partnerships with North American converters.
SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
As per SkyQuest analysis, the global packaging inks and coatings industry is being propelled by stringent sustainability mandates, as brands and regulators demand low-VOC, bio-based, and recyclable formulations that minimize environmental impact. However, volatile raw-material costs, driven by fluctuating petrochemical prices and supply disruptions, pose significant margin pressures and hinder long-term planning.
North America remains the dominant region, leveraging its mature food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors alongside a strong push for eco-friendly chemistries and digital printing adoption. Within this landscape, the technology segment leads, with water-borne inks capturing the largest share due to their compliance with environmental regulations, excellent substrate compatibility, and alignment with, circular economy goals solidifying their position at the forefront of market innovation.
Report Metric | Details |
---|---|
Market size value in 2023 | USD 7.2 billion |
Market size value in 2032 | USD 11.86 billion |
Growth Rate | 5.7% |
Base year | 2024 |
Forecast period | 2025-2032 |
Forecast Unit (Value) | USD Billion |
Segments covered |
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Regions covered | North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA) |
Companies covered |
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Table Of Content
Executive Summary
Market overview
Parent Market Analysis
Market overview
Market size
KEY MARKET INSIGHTS
COVID IMPACT
MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK
Market Size by Region
KEY COMPANY PROFILES
Methodology
For the Packaging Inks and Coatings Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:
1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.
2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the Packaging Inks and Coatings Market.
3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.
4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.
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With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Packaging Inks and Coatings Market:
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Global Packaging Inks and Coatings Market size was valued at USD 25.19 billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 26.55 billion in 2024 to USD 40.44 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period (2025-2032).
The competitive landscape of the global packaging inks and coatings market trends is defined by leading multinationals deploying targeted sustainability frameworks and strategic portfolio expansions. Sun Chemical’s “5Rs” approach Reuse, Reduce, Renew, Recycle, Redesign, directs its R&D into low-VOC, UV-curable systems and deep collaborations with brand owners to meet circular-economy mandates. DIC Corporation has broadened its specialty pigments and adhesives portfolio through marquee acquisitions (e.g., BASF’s Global Pigments business in 2021) and by inaugurating toluene-free liquid-ink plants in India to satisfy regional regulations and bolster global supply resilience. 'Sun Chemical (United States)', 'DIC Corporation (Japan)', 'Flint Group (Switzerland)', 'Siegwerk (Germany)', 'INX International Ink Co. (United States)', 'Toyo Ink SC Holdings (Japan)', 'Fujifilm (Japan)', 'PPG Industries (United States)', 'The Dow Chemical Company (United States)', 'Clariant (Switzerland)', 'Huber Group (Germany)', 'Michelman (United States)', 'Nazdar (United States)', 'Chromaflo Technologies (United States)', 'ACTEGA (Germany)'
Increasing environmental regulations and rising consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging are driving innovation in low-VOC, bio-based, and recyclable inks and coatings. Brand owners and converters are under pressure to reduce carbon footprints and comply with strict air quality and waste management standards. This push fuels R&D into water-borne systems, UV/EB curable, and biodegradable formulations, accelerating adoption of greener chemistries across the value chain while enhancing corporate sustainability profiles.
Shift Toward Functional and Barrier Coatings: A major trend reshaping the packaging inks and coatings market is the rising demand for functional coatings that go beyond aesthetics. These include oxygen, moisture, grease, and aroma barriers; heat-seal layers; and re-closable systems. Driven by plastic-reduction goals and food safety regulations, converters are adopting multifunctional coatings to replace multi-layer films with recyclable mono-material structures. This transition supports circularity while maintaining product integrity, especially in food, pharmaceuticals, and perishable goods packaging.
How Does North America’s Demand Forces Allow it to Dominate the Global Packaging Inks and Coatings Market?
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