The report shows that the e-commerce packaging market, estimated at $77.4 billion in 2024, is set to grow at a steady pace, reaching $124.9 billion in 2029. This growth is largely fuelled by the increase in online sales, driven by the accessibility of e-commerce platforms, the widespread use of smartphones and increasingly widespread Internet connectivity. Packaging plays a central role in this dynamic, offering solutions tailored to the specific needs of each sector.
The report analyzes various materials used for packaging, and highlights the predominance of corrugated board and paper in packaging solutions. Their versatility, relatively low cost and compatibility with durability requirements make them particularly popular materials. Kraft paper, in particular, is used for protective packaging, while corrugated board remains a benchmark for boxes intended for bulkier or more fragile products.
Postal envelopes and cardboard boxes in the lead
The report also details the breakdown of market share by product type. In 2023, postal envelopes represented the second largest market share. This success is due to their light weight, low cost and ability to offer effective protection, particularly for small items such as clothing or small electronic accessories. Meanwhile, cardboard boxes, commonly used in the electronics sector, continue to dominate the market thanks to their robustness and ability to protect delicate or bulky items.
One of the main challenges identified by the report concerns the sustainability of packaging solutions. Although paper and cardboard are recyclable, the report highlights the lack of adequate infrastructure to process these materials on a large scale. This represents a major brake on the expansion of the e-commerce packaging market, in a context where consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions continues to grow.
One of the points raised by the report is the lack of recycling systems adapted to the massive increase in packaging use. While some countries already have high-performance infrastructures, most regions of the world, particularly in Asia and South America, are struggling to process these materials efficiently.
With the rapid growth of the electronics sector in e-commerce, the report highlights the need for bespoke packaging solutions to protect fragile and often expensive items. Companies innovating in the design of secure, durable packaging for these products are seeing their market share grow rapidly.
Asia-Pacific: driving global growth
The Asia-Pacific region plays a key role in the dynamics of the e-commerce packaging market. The report highlights the strong growth of e-commerce in countries such as China and India, driven by the rise of the middle class and improved Internet accessibility. In addition, the region benefits from significant production capacity and advanced logistics, making it a global hub for packaging manufacturing and export. Finally, the report indicates that companies in the region, to strengthen their market position, are relying on a variety of strategies such as mergers, acquisitions and new product development. These initiatives are aimed at meeting growing packaging needs, both locally and internationally.
