India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Outlook 

The India paper and paperboard packaging market size is estimated at USD 14.57 billion in 2026, up from USD 13.72 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach USD 19.66 billion by 2031, registering a CAGR of 6.18% over the 2026–2031 period. This steady expansion underscores the growing relevance of fiber-based packaging across India’s retail, logistics, and manufacturing sectors, supported by rising consumption, organized retail growth, and sustainability-driven packaging shifts. 

One of the key drivers supporting India paper and paperboard packaging market growth is the nationwide shift away from single-use plastics. Regulatory measures have encouraged manufacturers, retailers, and food brands to adopt recyclable and biodegradable packaging formats. Corrugated boxes, folding cartons, and liquid cartons are becoming common choices for both transit and retail packaging. 

At the same time, the expansion of online retail and quick-commerce delivery services is strengthening the India paper and paperboard packaging industry. These business models depend on durable and lightweight packaging that protects goods while maintaining cost efficiency. As a result, companies across the India paper and paperboard packaging industry are increasing production capacity, investing in recycled fiber, and improving packaging designs to meet growing demand. 

Key Trends in the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market 

Rising Demand from E-commerce and Quick Commerce 

One of the most visible India paper and paperboard packaging market trends is the rapid expansion of online retail and quick delivery networks. E-commerce platforms require corrugated boxes that provide product safety during transport while remaining lightweight and recyclable. The rise of regional fulfillment centers has increased demand for secondary packaging formats such as shipping cartons and protective inserts. 

Quick-commerce services have also increased packaging requirements due to frequent deliveries and high product turnover. These services depend on packaging that can be assembled quickly and withstand repeated handling. This shift is expanding India paper and paperboard packaging market share for corrugated packaging formats. 

Shift Toward Recyclable and Mono-Material Packaging 

Environmental awareness among consumers and businesses is encouraging the adoption of recyclable packaging. Many food and beverage brands are replacing plastic laminates with paperboard packaging combined with protective coatings that maintain product safety. 

Impact of Plastic Ban Regulations 

Government regulations restricting certain plastic products have created opportunities for fiber-based packaging. Paper and paperboard packaging is being used as alternatives in applications such as food containers, retail packaging, and delivery boxes. 

This regulatory environment is helping increase India paper and paperboard packaging market size by encouraging industries to shift toward fiber packaging solutions. As enforcement continues, demand for paperboard packaging is expected to remain strong. 

Expansion of Recycled Fiber and Domestic Production 

The India paper and paperboard packaging industry is expanding recycled fiber production capacity to reduce reliance on imported materials. Manufacturers are using agricultural residues and recovered paper to produce packaging materials. This approach supports sustainability goals while improving raw material availability. 

India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Market Segmentation 

By Product Type 

By End-User Vertical 

By Packaging Format 

By Material Grade 

Key Players in the India Paper and Paperboard Packaging Industry 

Conclusion 

The India paper and paperboard packaging market is expected to maintain steady progress due to strong demand from e-commerce, retail, food, and healthcare sectors. The shift away from plastic packaging and increasing focus on recyclable materials are supporting long-term demand. 

India paper and paperboard packaging market trends show that corrugated packaging, folding cartons, and recycled fiber packaging will continue to play an important role. The expansion of domestic manufacturing capacity and improvements in recycled fiber processing will help strengthen supply chains. 

Overall, the India paper and paperboard packaging market forecast remains positive, supported by strong demand across industries and continued investment in packaging production. As companies focus on sustainability, efficiency, and supply chain reliability, the India paper and paperboard packaging market will remain an important part of India’s packaging sector.