In this report, the Gravure Printing Ink Market has been segmented by Ink Type, End-Use Industry, Form, Substrate Type, Packaging Format, Color and Geography.

Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Ink Type

The Ink Type segmentation reflects evolving print quality requirements, press speeds, and sustainability mandates across packaging and publication value chains. Buyers evaluate inks on adhesion, viscosity control, curing speed, and regulatory compliance, while converters balance cost-in-use with uptime. Technology partnerships between ink formulators, photoinitiator suppliers, and press OEMs continue to optimize drying/curing efficiency and substrate versatility, guiding procurement strategies and multi-plant standardization.

Solvent-Based

Solvent-based gravure inks remain widely used for high-speed lines due to robust wetting, leveling, and anchorage across challenging films and foils. They enable consistent laydown for long runs and demanding graphics, supporting applications where scuff resistance and print fidelity are critical. Strategic priorities include VOC management, solvent recovery systems, and reformulation to meet changing food-contact and emissions standards without compromising productivity.

UV Curable

UV-curable gravure inks address fast-turn production with instant curing, enabling reduced work-in-progress and sharper dot gain control. Converters adopt these systems to minimize drying energy and improve substrate dimensional stability, especially on heat-sensitive films. Vendor collaboration focuses on photoinitiator packages, low-migration chemistries, and press retrofits that unlock higher throughput and consistent gloss across varied coverage areas.

• UV LED Curable

  UV LED-curable inks leverage narrow-spectrum lamps with lower heat, extending compatibility to thin films and reducing maintenance. Printers benefit from energy savings, long lamp life, and stable irradiance that supports uniform cure at speed. Development roadmaps emphasize low-migration formulations, optimized photo-initiator absorption, and improved surface cure on high-opacity colors.

• UV Mercury Curable

  Mercury-lamp UV inks are established for high-speed curing with broad spectral output that supports deep trough cure. Plants with legacy UV systems value predictable performance and proven recipes for complex jobs. Upgrades typically center on cooling management, reflector efficiency, and hybrid lines that gradually transition toward LED while maintaining validated results.

Water-Based

Water-based gravure inks align with sustainability and regulatory priorities by lowering VOCs and simplifying operator safety protocols. They are increasingly specified where odor and migration sensitivities are high, and where brand owners set clear environmental targets. Performance initiatives target faster drying kinetics, improved water resistance, and broader substrate latitude to match solvent-like press efficiency.

Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by End-Use Industry

End-use dynamics in Decorative, Labeling, Packaging, and Publication drive ink selection criteria around color strength, rheology, and regulatory conformance. Converters co-develop with ink suppliers to meet brand expectations for visual impact, durability, and shelf presence. Multi-site standardization, vendor-managed inventory, and application support are central to maintaining quality consistency and reducing changeover times across product families.

Decorative

Decorative printing emphasizes premium aesthetics and consistent finishes across complex materials. Buyers prioritize inks with controlled gloss, metallic effects, and lightfastness to preserve patterns over long runs. Supplier value propositions focus on design flexibility, repeatability, and compatibility with advanced coatings and lamination workflows.

• Gift Wrap

  In gift wrap, production scales demand inks with stable viscosity and uniform coverage on lightweight papers. Brands seek vibrant holiday palettes and metallic accents that retain clarity post-folding. Performance hinges on scuff resistance and converting speed for peak-season volumes.

• Textile Printing

  Textile gravure applications require soft handle and wash durability while preserving intricate repeats. Formulators tune penetration and fixation to different fibers and pre-treatments. Partnerships with finishers ensure colors withstand laundering and UV exposure in end-use scenarios.

• Wallpaper

  Wallpaper printing favors inks enabling rich tactile effects and clean edges on embossed substrates. Specifications stress lightfastness, stain resistance, and compatibility with topcoats. Supply programs emphasize batch-to-batch shade consistency and efficient color changeovers.

Labeling

Labeling workflows combine branding, compliance, and durability for diverse container shapes and application methods. Inks must maintain barcode readability, chemical resistance, and adhesion under fill-line stresses. Collaboration with film suppliers and adhesive vendors secures end-to-end performance across temperature and moisture extremes.

• Narrow Web

  Narrow web jobs require tight registration and fast setups, benefiting from inks with predictable rheology and minimal misting. Brands demand high color density on short runs, pushing converters to hybrid curing options. Service levels center on rapid technical support and on-press optimization.

• Sleeve

  Shrink-sleeve environments require inks with excellent flexibility and distortion resistance during shrink. Formulators tune systems to avoid blocking and maintain clarity through steam or dry heat tunnels. Brands value precise opacity control for 360-degree graphics.

• Wrap Around

  Wrap-around labels prioritize cost-efficiency for large beverage volumes while preserving gloss and scuff resistance. Inks must balance slip for high-speed application and strong adhesion post-fill. Vendor programs emphasize standardized color sets and streamlined approvals.

Packaging

Packaging dominates volume, where inks must meet food safety, migration, and process robustness requirements across complex laminations. Converters seek systems enabling high coverage solids and fine text while controlling curl and COF. Strategic initiatives include ink/substrate co-qualification and lightweighting compatibility to advance sustainability goals.

• Corrugated Packaging

  Corrugated applications require inks with strong fibre anchorage and controlled dot spread on absorbent liners. Brands demand bold graphics that survive distribution and humidity. Plants emphasize ink mileage and quick-dry behavior to sustain throughput.

• Flexible Packaging

  Flexible packaging needs inks compatible with solventless and solvent-based lamination, resisting retort and grease where specified. Low-odor, low-migration choices support food and personal care lines. Vendor support focuses on blocking control and heat resistance in multilayer structures.

• Rigid Packaging

  Rigid packs call for durable inks with excellent adhesion on containers and lids, resisting scuff through filling and logistics. Shade accuracy and gloss retention are vital for premium SKUs. Standardization programs reduce downtime and simplify color management across lines.

Publication

Publication printing values readability, ink holdout, and image fidelity at high speeds. Buyers balance pigment load with set-off control and drying. Supplier engagement targets smoother press stability and improved rub resistance for distribution cycles.

• Catalog & Brochure

  Catalog & brochure work requires crisp halftones, uniform solids, and controlled dot gain on coated stocks. Brands pursue consistent skin tones and fine detail across long pagination. Processes prioritize anti-set-off properties and predictable drying windows.

• Magazine

  Magazines demand vibrant images and smooth gloss with minimal mottle. Inks must support rapid bindery without smearing while retaining black density for text. Plant strategies favor standardized ink sets and shared profiles across titles.

• Newspaper

  Newspaper conditions emphasize fast set, clean trapping, and economical pigment choices for massive pagination. Readability and smudge resistance are primary KPIs. Continuous improvement targets linting control and water balance on varied stocks.

Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Form

Form factors influence handling, dosing, and consistency across plants, with trade-offs between flow behavior and storage stability. Procurement teams assess how form selection affects make-ready times, solvent balance, and waste reduction. Standard operating procedures emphasize repeatability and operator safety while meeting brand color targets.

Liquid

Liquid inks offer straightforward metering and rapid viscosity adjustments on press, facilitating tight control at scale. They enable efficient color matching and compatibility with automated supply systems. Focus areas include foam control, shelf-life stability, and predictable rheology over extended runs.

Paste

Paste inks provide higher body for specific gravure setups requiring controlled transfer and reduced misting. They support dense coverage with minimized set-off in constrained drying environments. Plants adopt them where substrate or artwork dictates thicker films and robust laydown characteristics.

Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Substrate Type

Substrate Type dictates anchorage chemistry, solvent choices, and surface treatments, shaping ink design for wettability and durability. Converters validate performance across glass, foil, paper & board, and plastic films with tests for rub, chemical resistance, and lamination. Supplier partnerships aim to expand substrate latitude while maintaining press speed and final appearance.

Glass

Glass requires inks with superior adhesion promoters and resistance to thermal cycling. Applications include premium décor and specialty packaging demanding crisp detail. Process control focuses on surface preparation and post-print curing to secure long-term durability.

Metal Foil

Metal foil applications emphasize opacity, flex-crack resistance, and clean edges on reflective surfaces. Inks are tuned for heat resistance and compatibility with downstream lamination. Quality programs monitor blocking and gloss uniformity under tight rewinding tensions.

Paper & Board

Paper & board demand balanced penetration and holdout to control feathering and sustain color strength. Brands require repeatable shade control across mills and seasons. Attention centers on rub resistance and converting efficiency for die-cut and folding operations.

Plastic Film

Plastic films such as BOPP, PET, and PE require tuned adhesion profiles and slip control to manage line speeds. Corona treatment compatibility and heat stability are key for sealing and shrink processes. Suppliers co-engineer primers and inks to broaden application windows.

Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Packaging Format

Packaging Format aligns ink delivery with plant logistics, affecting inventory turns, waste, and color consistency. Decisions weigh the economics of bulk supply against flexibility for short runs and frequent changes. Vendor programs often include returnable containers, dispensing hardware, and on-site services to stabilize operations.

Bulk

Bulk supply supports high-volume sites with centralized ink kitchens and tight process control. It reduces container handling and improves batch traceability. Success depends on robust pumping systems and real-time viscosity monitoring.

Cartridge

Cartridge formats enable clean changeovers, precise dosing, and reduced operator exposure. They are favored for short runs, high SKU variety, and color-critical work. Programs emphasize packaging recyclability and compatibility with automated dispensers.

Drum

Drum packaging balances scale with handling ease for multi-line plants. Standardization simplifies receiving and storage while ensuring consistent quality. Best practices include mixing protocols and seals that prevent contamination.

Pail

Pail units provide flexibility for trials, seasonal jobs, and specialty colors. They help control obsolescence while maintaining responsiveness to design refreshes. Plants focus on labeling accuracy and proper agitation to maintain stability.

Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Color

Color strategy balances brand guidelines with printability, covering process sets and spot colors for premium effects. Formulators manage pigment dispersion, opacity, and lightfastness to deliver consistent on-press behavior. Converters implement color management frameworks to reduce waste and ensure cross-plant uniformity.

Black

Black inks prioritize high density, crisp text, and stable trap in fine elements. They must avoid bronzing while delivering rapid set to support throughput. Controls focus on viscosity and solvent balance to keep edges sharp.

Cyan

Cyan provides core gamut extension with attention to hue angle and metamerism. Stable rheology across speeds supports predictable overlays. Plants monitor dot gain and tone value to maintain photographic detail.

Fluorescent

Fluorescent colors deliver standout visual impact for promotions and decorative work. They require careful opacity and overprint strategies to protect brightness. Supply considerations include lightfastness and handling protocols to avoid contamination.

Magenta

Magenta selection emphasizes chroma and balance with cyan/yellow to control skin tones and brand reds. Formulation stability ensures smooth gradation across vignettes. Plants track trap efficiency and gloss uniformity in mixed coverage.

Metallic

Metallic inks incorporate flake geometry for sparkle and leafing behavior that must survive converting. Clear coats and process settings preserve effect and rub resistance. Vendors provide guidance on anilox/engraving match and agitation to prevent settling.

White

White underprints set base opacity for film jobs, demanding high TiO₂ loading with controlled viscosity. Target outcomes include clean overprint and consistent coverage at speed. Plants manage foam and shear to keep film uniform.

Yellow

Yellow inks impact warmth and brand consistency, requiring stable hue and minimal dry-back shift. Process control maintains clarity in fine text and solids. Supplier focus remains on dispersant optimization and print stability.

Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Gravure Printing Ink Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

North America

North America features mature gravure infrastructure with a focus on food safety compliance, low-migration systems, and energy-efficient curing. Brand owners drive stringent color management and recycled-content packaging, influencing ink choices. Collaboration with substrate and equipment suppliers accelerates productivity gains and standardization.

Europe

Europe is shaped by advanced regulatory frameworks and rapid adoption of water-based and UV technologies in sensitive applications. Sustainability commitments push for recyclability and reduced VOC footprints while preserving premium print quality. Cross-border supply programs emphasize harmonized specifications and audited compliance.

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific combines fast-growing packaging demand with expanding converter capacity and technology upgrades. Investments in high-speed presses, LED UV, and quality systems elevate output consistency. Regional ecosystems foster partnerships that localize ink raw materials and service to support scale.

Middle East & Africa

Middle East & Africa sees steady development in flexible packaging and labeling, with attention to heat resistance and distribution durability. Converters prioritize inks that perform on diverse climates and supply chains. Supplier engagement focuses on technical training and reliable availability.

Latin America

Latin America balances cost-efficiency with upgrades to meet multinational brand quality standards. Plants introduce water-based and low-odor systems to serve food and personal care segments. Partnerships emphasize local support, inventory agility, and color consistency across regional hubs.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Gravure Printing Ink Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers:

• Rising demand for packaging and labels
• Growth in the e-commerce sector

• Advancements in printing technologies - Advancements in printing technologies are playing a pivotal role in driving the growth of the gravure printing ink market. The development of high-definition printing techniques has significantly enhanced the quality and precision of printed materials, particularly in packaging and labels. New technologies, such as digital gravure and rotary screen printing, are enabling faster production speeds and more intricate designs, allowing for better color reproduction and detail on various substrates. These innovations are meeting the increasing demand for high-quality prints, especially in industries such as food packaging, where clarity and visual appeal are crucial for consumer attraction.

  Moreover, the integration of automation and smart technologies in printing presses is improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime. Innovations like AI-driven color management systems and automated ink management are helping printers optimize their production processes and reduce waste. These technological advancements not only lower operational costs but also enhance the consistency of print quality, which is essential for maintaining brand identity and meeting regulatory standards in industries such as pharmaceuticals and consumer goods. As printing equipment becomes more intelligent and interconnected, manufacturers are able to streamline operations and increase productivity.

  The trend towards digitalization in the printing sector is also fostering the development of eco-friendly gravure inks. New advancements in ink formulations are focusing on reducing the environmental impact of the printing process. Water-based and UV-cured inks are gaining traction as alternatives to traditional solvent-based inks, aligning with sustainability goals and stricter environmental regulations. These innovations are driving growth in the gravure printing ink market, as businesses seek greener solutions to meet consumer demand for environmentally responsible products. The convergence of these technological and environmental advancements is poised to shape the future of the gravure printing ink market.

Restraints:

• High production costs
• Environmental concerns over solvent-based inks

• Stringent regulations on VOC emissions - Stringent regulations on volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions are significantly impacting the gravure printing ink market, driving the demand for environmentally friendly ink formulations. VOCs, which are found in many traditional solvent-based inks, contribute to air pollution and are linked to health issues such as respiratory problems and headaches. As awareness of these environmental and health risks grows, regulatory bodies worldwide have implemented stricter VOC emission standards. For example, the European Union's REACH regulations and the U.S. EPA have set limits on VOC content in inks, requiring manufacturers to adopt low-VOC or VOC-free alternatives. These regulations have pushed ink producers to innovate and transition toward more sustainable ink solutions.

  To comply with these regulations, the gravure printing industry has seen a shift toward water-based and UV-cured inks, which contain little to no VOCs. Water-based inks use water as a solvent instead of petroleum-based solvents, reducing harmful emissions. UV-cured inks, on the other hand, are cured with ultraviolet light, eliminating the need for solvents altogether. These ink technologies are gaining popularity as they offer not only environmental benefits but also improved print quality and faster curing times. As more regions adopt similar regulations, the demand for these eco-friendly ink solutions is expected to grow, creating new opportunities for innovation and market expansion.

  While these regulations are driving positive change in the industry, they also pose challenges for manufacturers, especially those reliant on traditional solvent-based inks. The transition to low-VOC or VOC-free inks requires investment in new technologies and equipment, which can increase production costs. Additionally, the performance characteristics of alternative inks may differ from those of solvent-based options, requiring adjustments in printing processes and materials. However, the regulatory push towards reduced VOC emissions also presents long-term opportunities for the gravure printing ink market. Companies that successfully develop compliant, high-performance inks will not only meet regulatory requirements but also position themselves as leaders in the growing market for sustainable printing solutions.

Opportunities:

• Development of eco-friendly and sustainable inks
• Expansion in emerging markets

• Increasing demand for high-quality prints in flexible packaging - The increasing demand for high-quality prints in flexible packaging is significantly driving the growth of the gravure printing ink market. Flexible packaging materials, such as films, pouches, and wraps, are widely used across industries like food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. These sectors require high-quality, visually appealing packaging to attract consumers and convey brand identity. Gravure printing, known for its ability to produce sharp, detailed images and consistent color reproduction, has become the preferred method for achieving the high standards expected in flexible packaging. As consumer preferences for attractive and functional packaging continue to evolve, the demand for advanced gravure printing inks that can deliver vibrant, durable prints is rising.

  Additionally, flexible packaging is increasingly used as a cost-effective solution that provides convenience and extended shelf life. This has prompted brands to invest in packaging that not only meets functional requirements but also offers superior aesthetics. The need for high-quality prints is particularly prominent in sectors like food and beverages, where packaging design plays a critical role in influencing consumer purchasing decisions. Gravure printing inks, with their ability to produce fine details and vibrant colors, are essential in delivering the premium quality that brands seek. As manufacturers strive to meet these demands, the innovation in gravure ink formulations to support such high-quality applications continues to grow.

  The expansion of flexible packaging in emerging markets is further contributing to the increasing demand for high-quality prints. As economic development accelerates and consumer markets expand in regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America, companies are investing more in packaging that stands out on the retail shelf. Gravure printing inks are being adapted to meet the specific needs of these growing markets, including factors such as cost-effectiveness, ink durability, and ability to withstand environmental conditions. As flexible packaging continues to evolve and dominate the packaging landscape, the gravure printing ink market is expected to witness continued growth, driven by the ongoing demand for high-quality prints and the push toward more sustainable and efficient printing technologies.

Gravure Printing Ink Market is experiencing heightened competition as established manufacturers and niche suppliers focus on innovation, growth, and sustainable solutions. Rising demand from packaging, publishing, and decorative applications accelerates industry adoption, while firms implement strategies including partnerships, merger activities, and cross-industry collaboration to strengthen product portfolios, enhance operational efficiency, and secure broader market presence.

Market Structure and Concentration

The market structure is moderately fragmented, with leading producers retaining significant influence through advanced technological advancements, extensive distribution networks, and diversified product lines. Smaller competitors intensify rivalry by focusing on eco-friendly formulations and regional expansion. Industry concentration is further shaped by collaboration between ink producers and packaging converters, balancing dominance of large firms with innovation-driven challengers.

Brand and Channel Strategies

Key players strengthen brand positioning through sustainability-driven messaging, emphasizing low-VOC and recyclable ink systems. Multi-channel strategies include direct sales to packaging firms, partnerships with distributors, and expansion into e-commerce platforms. Transparent supply practices and tailored solutions support growth, reinforcing trust and aligning competitive advantage with evolving customer expectations across diverse gravure applications.

Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements

Continuous innovation underpins competitiveness, with firms investing in bio-based solutions, water-based formulations, and advanced curing technologies. Technological advancements in ink chemistry enhance performance, color quality, and print durability. Strategic collaboration with packaging firms and equipment manufacturers accelerates expansion, while merger activities broaden capabilities, driving consistent growth in environmentally compliant and high-performance gravure printing inks.

Regional Momentum and Expansion

Regional expansion is driven by packaging and label demand, with some regions accounting for nearly 45% of industry adoption. Companies deploy localized strategies to meet regulatory requirements and customer preferences. Partnerships with regional converters, printers, and distributors strengthen market positioning, while investments in innovation centers enable adaptability, ensuring resilient growth in varied consumer and industrial segments.

Future Outlook

The future outlook points to sustained growth, driven by sustainable materials, advanced ink chemistries, and expanding packaging applications. Rising collaboration, merger activities, and adaptive strategies will reshape competition and accelerate adoption of eco-friendly inks. Firms prioritizing technological advancements and regional expansion are positioned to secure leadership, reinforcing long-term competitiveness in the evolving gravure printing industry.

Key players in Gravure Printing Ink Market include:

• Sun Chemical
• Mac-Mixu Coating & Chemicals
• Siegwerk Druckfarben
• CHEMICOAT
• DIC Corporation
• Wikoff Color
• Sakata
• Technocrafts India
• Dainichiseika Color & Chemicals
• Flint Group
• Worldtex Specialty Chemicals
• Hubergroup
• Mitsu Inks
• Tokyo Printing Ink MFG
• Shivasakhti Printing Ink

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Market Share Analysis
• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis