Global Kraft Liner Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Product;
GSM (Less than 80), GSM 80 to 160, and GSM (Greater than 160).By Application, Adhesives, Carbon Fiber Production, Animal Feed, Bioresins, Soil Conditioning.By End Use;
Construction, Agriculture, Food Beverage, Pharmaceutical, and Personal Care.By Source;
Softwood, Hardwood, and Hybrid.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Kraft Liner Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Kraft Liner Market was valued at USD 31,009.64 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 42,483.33 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.6%.
The global kraft liner market is a dynamic and essential segment of the packaging industry, primarily driven by the growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions. Kraft liner is a type of paperboard that is typically used as the outer layer in corrugated boxes, providing both strength and durability. It is made from wood pulp, a renewable resource, which gives it an advantage over synthetic alternatives that rely on petroleum-based products. The increasing focus on reducing environmental footprints and the need for recyclable, biodegradable packaging materials has propelled the adoption of kraft liner across various industries, including e-commerce, food and beverages, and consumer goods.
The market for kraft liner has been expanding due to the significant rise in e-commerce and online retail, which require robust and reliable packaging solutions. Kraft liner’s excellent printing quality, combined with its strength and recyclability, makes it a preferred material for shipping boxes and packaging solutions. The surge in global trade, along with the growing demand for packaged goods, has led to a consistent need for kraft liner products. This, coupled with the rise of sustainable consumer practices, has reinforced the market's positive outlook and encouraged businesses to invest in greener alternatives for their packaging needs.
In addition to e-commerce, other key applications of kraft liner include packaging for food products, electronics, and various consumer goods. The shift towards sustainable packaging practices in these sectors, driven by consumer preference and regulatory requirements, is expected to continue to boost demand for kraft liner in the foreseeable future. The market is also influenced by innovations in manufacturing processes, which are improving the quality and cost-effectiveness of kraft liner products, making them more accessible to a broader range of industries. With these trends, the global kraft liner market is poised for continued growth and development in the coming years.
Global Kraft Liner Market Recent Developments
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In May 2024, the development of fully recyclable kraft liners with water,resistant coatings gained traction among environmentally conscious packaging companies.
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In January 2023, a paper manufacturer expanded its kraft liner portfolio with enhanced strength grades to meet increasing demand from the e,commerce and retail packaging sectors.
Segment Analysis
The global kraft liner market can be segmented based on product GSM (grams per square meter), ranging from less than 80 GSM to more than 160 GSM. The GSM of kraft liner plays a critical role in determining its strength, durability, and the type of application it is suitable for. Lighter GSM kraft liners, typically less than 80 GSM, are commonly used in packaging for non-heavy-duty applications such as food wrappers, small boxes, and secondary packaging. Medium GSM kraft liners, ranging from 80 to 160 GSM, provide the perfect balance of strength and flexibility for medium-duty packaging applications, including shipping boxes and retail packaging. Higher GSM kraft liners, greater than 160 GSM, are used in heavy-duty applications such as industrial packaging, where additional strength is required to hold heavier goods during transportation.
In terms of application, the kraft liner market serves a diverse range of industries, including adhesives, carbon fiber production, animal feed, bioresins, and soil conditioning. The use of kraft liner in adhesives and carbon fiber production is primarily due to its excellent bonding properties and its role in reinforcing composite materials. In animal feed, bioresins, and soil conditioning, kraft liners are employed for their biodegradable nature and the ability to act as carriers for various additives. These applications align with the growing trend toward sustainable and eco-friendly products in industrial and consumer markets.
The end-use industries for kraft liners are equally varied, with major demand stemming from sectors such as construction, agriculture, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. In construction, kraft liners are used for packaging building materials and tools, while in agriculture, they are often used for packaging seeds, fertilizers, and chemicals. The food and beverage sector relies on kraft liner for packaging products such as dry food items and beverages, while the pharmaceutical and personal care industries utilize it for the packaging of medicines, creams, and cosmetics. The versatility and sustainability of kraft liners make them a popular choice across a broad spectrum of end-use industries. The source of the material, whether from softwood, hardwood, or hybrid sources, also influences the quality and environmental impact of the final product. Each source offers distinct advantages in terms of fiber strength, pulp yield, and sustainability, allowing manufacturers to choose the best material for their specific application.
Global Kraft Liner Market Analysis
In this report, the Global Kraft Liner Market has been segmented by Product, Application,End Use, Source, and Geography.
Global Kraft Liner Market, Segmentation by Product
The Global Kraft Liner Market has been segmented by Product into GSM (Less than 80), GSM 80 to 160 and GSM (Greater than 160).
The global kraft liner market is categorized based on the grams per square meter (GSM) of the product, with the primary categories being less than 80 GSM, 80 to 160 GSM, and greater than 160 GSM. Kraft liners with a GSM of less than 80 are typically used for light-duty applications, such as food packaging, small boxes, and secondary packaging. This category is favored for products that require flexibility and less structural integrity. The lighter GSM kraft liners are often chosen for their cost-effectiveness and sufficient strength for lightweight items. These are also commonly used in packaging for consumer goods that are not intended for heavy-duty handling.
The GSM range of 80 to 160 is considered medium-strength and is widely used for various packaging applications requiring a balance of durability and flexibility. Products in this GSM category are suitable for medium-duty applications such as shipping boxes, retail packaging, and corrugated products. Kraft liners in this range are often utilized for packaging products that require some level of protection from impacts during transportation but do not need the heavy reinforcement provided by higher GSM liners. The medium GSM kraft liners are highly valued for their ability to maintain cost-efficiency while providing reliable protection for a variety of goods.
Kraft liners with a GSM of greater than 160 are used in heavy-duty packaging applications, where extra strength and durability are critical. These high-GSM liners are commonly used for industrial packaging, such as crates, pallets, and packaging for heavy machinery or large goods. Their high strength makes them ideal for handling the weight and stress associated with heavy-duty transportation and storage. The thicker, higher GSM kraft liners are also used in applications where moisture resistance, tear resistance, and load-bearing capacity are essential. These products are designed to provide the maximum level of protection for goods that need to endure harsh conditions during handling, storage, and shipping.
Global Kraft Liner Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Kraft Liner Market has been segmented by Application into Adhesives, Carbon Fiber Production, Animal Feed, Bioresins, Soil Conditioning.
In the global kraft liner market, one key application is in adhesives. Kraft liner's natural fibers make it an ideal ingredient for producing biodegradable adhesives used in various industrial and consumer products. The use of kraft liner in adhesives has gained popularity due to its eco-friendly properties, as it offers a sustainable alternative to synthetic adhesives derived from petroleum-based materials. This application benefits industries such as packaging, automotive, and construction, where strong and environmentally friendly bonding solutions are essential. The increasing focus on sustainability in the adhesive industry is expected to drive continued growth in this segment of the market.
Another significant application of kraft liner is in carbon fiber production. Kraft liners, particularly those derived from hardwood sources, are used as a precursor for producing carbon fibers. The lignin content in kraft liner makes it an excellent candidate for this process, as it can be converted into carbon fiber through various chemical and thermal treatments. The demand for carbon fiber, due to its lightweight and high-strength properties, is growing across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy. The rising interest in carbon fiber composites for manufacturing lightweight yet durable components is expected to drive the demand for kraft liner as a raw material in carbon fiber production.
Kraft liner is also used in animal feed production. The fibers extracted from kraft liner are rich in nutrients and can be processed into a supplementary ingredient for animal feed. In addition to being a source of fiber, kraft liner-derived products are often used in feed formulations due to their low cost and sustainability. This application is particularly relevant for the agriculture and livestock industries, where the need for affordable, nutrient-rich feed is constant. The growing trend of sustainable agricultural practices and the increasing awareness of environmentally friendly feed options are likely to contribute to the expansion of kraft liner use in the animal feed sector.
Global Kraft Liner Market, Segmentation by End Use
The Global Kraft Liner Market has been segmented by End Use into Construction, Agriculture, Food Beverage, Pharmaceutical, and Personal Care.
In the construction industry, kraft liner is utilized primarily for its durability and strength. It is commonly used in the production of eco-friendly and sustainable building materials, such as packaging for construction components and insulation products. The renewable nature of kraft liner and its ability to be easily processed into various forms, including sheets and boards, make it an attractive choice for green building practices. As the demand for sustainable construction materials increases, the adoption of kraft liner in this sector is expected to grow, driven by the need for cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional materials.
In agriculture, kraft liner finds use in applications such as soil conditioning and animal feed. The organic matter derived from kraft liner is often incorporated into soil to improve its structure and water retention capabilities. This application is particularly beneficial for organic farming practices, where the focus is on reducing synthetic chemicals and using natural materials. Additionally, the lignin-rich content of kraft liner can be processed into organic fertilizers and soil conditioners, enhancing plant growth. The increasing emphasis on sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly farming practices is expected to drive the demand for kraft liner in this sector.
The food and beverage industry also benefits from the use of kraft liner, primarily in packaging applications. Kraft liner's strength and biodegradability make it a popular choice for creating sustainable food packaging materials, such as boxes, bags, and wrapping paper. With the growing consumer preference for environmentally friendly packaging, particularly in the context of single-use plastics, the demand for kraft liner-based packaging is on the rise. Additionally, kraft liner's ability to be easily recycled and composted aligns with the industry's push for reducing waste and adopting circular economy practices. This trend is expected to drive continued growth in the use of kraft liner in the food and beverage packaging sector.
Global Kraft Liner Market, Segmentation by Source
The Global Kraft Liner Market has been segmented by Source into Softwood, Hardwood, and Hybrid.
Kraft liner sourced from softwood is widely recognized for its strength and flexibility, making it a popular choice for applications that require durability. Softwood fibers, such as those from pine and spruce, have longer fibers that contribute to the robust characteristics of the kraft liner. These properties make it suitable for manufacturing packaging materials used in heavy-duty applications, such as shipping boxes and containers. As demand for sustainable packaging materials continues to rise, the use of softwood-based kraft liner is expected to grow, particularly in markets focused on eco-friendly and recyclable materials.
Hardwood-based kraft liner, derived from hardwood species like oak and birch, offers a more refined texture and smoother surface. This type of kraft liner is preferred in applications where high-quality, smooth, and printable surfaces are required, such as in premium packaging for luxury goods or food products. The shorter fibers of hardwood provide a more consistent texture, making it ideal for producing materials that need to maintain a neat appearance and functionality. As industries seek better performance in terms of printability and smoothness, the demand for hardwood-based kraft liner in specialized packaging applications is anticipated to increase.
Hybrid kraft liners, which are a blend of both softwood and hardwood fibers, combine the benefits of both types of raw materials. Hybrid liners are often designed to offer a balanced combination of strength, flexibility, and surface quality. These liners are suitable for a wide range of applications, from standard packaging to more sophisticated uses. The versatility of hybrid kraft liner makes it an attractive option for manufacturers who need materials that can meet diverse requirements across various industries. As sustainability trends push for a balance between performance and environmental impact, the hybrid kraft liner segment is expected to see steady growth, especially in the production of cost-effective and eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Global Kraft Liner Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Kraft Liner Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Kraft Liner Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
The North American region is a significant player in the global kraft liner market, driven by the region's well-established manufacturing and packaging industries. The demand for kraft liner in North America is largely supported by the growing focus on sustainable packaging solutions, especially in the food and beverage, e-commerce, and pharmaceutical sectors. As consumers and businesses alike seek eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic packaging, the shift towards recyclable and biodegradable materials such as kraft liner is becoming more prominent. North America's advanced infrastructure and strong regulatory frameworks for recycling further enhance the adoption of sustainable materials, making it a key market for kraft liner products from 2020 to 2030.
Europe is another major market for kraft liner, with a robust demand driven by the region's strict environmental regulations and a strong push for sustainable practices across industries. The European Union's focus on reducing plastic waste and promoting circular economies has significantly boosted the demand for recycled and eco-friendly materials, including kraft liners. Furthermore, the region's preference for premium, high-quality packaging in sectors like food, luxury goods, and pharmaceuticals supports the use of kraft liner made from both softwood and hardwood. As companies continue to adapt to sustainability goals, the European kraft liner market is expected to expand, with innovations in biodegradable and recyclable materials further driving growth.
The Asia Pacific region is poised for significant growth in the kraft liner market, fueled by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and an expanding consumer base. Countries like China, India, and Japan are key contributors to this growth, where the demand for packaging materials is surging due to increased manufacturing and retail activities. As the region's middle class continues to expand, so does the demand for consumer goods, which in turn drives the need for packaging solutions like kraft liner. The shift towards sustainable and cost-effective packaging options in emerging markets is expected to accelerate, creating new opportunities for the kraft liner market in Asia Pacific through 2030. Additionally, the region’s focus on improving waste management practices and reducing plastic consumption further bolsters the adoption of kraft liner products.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Kraft Liner Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions
- Increasing regulations on plastic usage and waste management
- Expansion of e-commerce and retail industries requiring efficient packaging
- Rising awareness about environmental impact and the need for recyclable materials -
The growing awareness about the environmental impact of packaging materials has led to an increased demand for sustainable alternatives. Consumers and businesses alike are becoming more conscious of the harmful effects of single-use plastics and non-recyclable materials, prompting industries to seek out more eco-friendly solutions. This shift in consumer preference is accelerating the adoption of recyclable materials, including kraft liners, which are seen as a more sustainable option for packaging.
As a result, industries across the globe are making concerted efforts to reduce their environmental footprint by investing in recyclable packaging. The pressure to meet regulatory standards and the demand for environmentally responsible practices is pushing companies to find alternatives to traditional packaging materials. Kraft liners, made from renewable sources like wood pulp, have gained significant traction due to their recyclability, making them a desirable choice for eco-conscious businesses.
In addition to consumer demand, governments and environmental organizations are implementing stricter regulations around waste management and packaging sustainability. These regulations are further encouraging industries to adopt recyclable packaging materials, with kraft liners being a leading option in many sectors. As sustainability becomes a key factor in consumer and corporate decision-making, the market for recyclable packaging solutions like kraft liners is expected to continue its upward trajectory.
Restraints:
- High production costs of kraft liner compared to traditional packaging materials
- Limited availability of raw materials, especially for premium kraft liner types
- Competition from alternative packaging materials like plastic and flexible packaging
- Fluctuations in the prices of wood pulp and other raw materials used in kraft liner production -
Fluctuations in the prices of raw materials, such as wood pulp, can significantly impact the production costs of kraft liners. Wood pulp is a key component in the manufacturing of kraft liners, and its price is influenced by various factors, including supply and demand dynamics, changes in forestry policies, and environmental regulations. When the cost of wood pulp rises, manufacturers may face increased production costs, which can lead to higher prices for kraft liners. This, in turn, may affect the profitability of companies in the kraft liner market and create challenges for price-sensitive industries.
Additionally, the volatility in raw material prices can also affect the overall supply chain for kraft liners. Disruptions in the supply of wood pulp, such as those caused by natural disasters, geopolitical issues, or changes in trade policies, can lead to delays in production and delivery times. Manufacturers may have to source wood pulp from different regions or suppliers, which may result in higher costs or lower-quality raw materials. These fluctuations can create uncertainty within the market, making it difficult for companies to accurately forecast prices and manage their budgets.
To mitigate the effects of raw material price fluctuations, businesses in the kraft liner market may seek alternative materials or explore cost-saving technologies that reduce their reliance on wood pulp. However, finding sustainable and cost-effective alternatives can be challenging, as kraft liners are valued for their strength, recyclability, and renewable nature. As the market continues to evolve, companies will need to balance the rising costs of raw materials with the growing demand for eco-friendly and cost-effective packaging solutions.
Opportunities:
- Growth in the adoption of kraft liner in emerging markets, especially in Asia Pacific
- Innovation in product formulations, such as the development of biodegradable kraft liners
- Expanding applications in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and personal care
- Increasing demand for high-quality, durable packaging solutions in luxury and premium goods markets -
The increasing demand for high-quality, durable packaging solutions is a significant trend in the luxury and premium goods markets. Consumers in these markets expect packaging that not only protects the products but also enhances the overall experience of purchasing high-end goods. Packaging plays a crucial role in communicating the value of luxury items, and it serves as an essential part of the brand's image. As a result, manufacturers are increasingly opting for kraft liners, which offer durability and a premium feel, making them suitable for packaging luxury products such as cosmetics, fine wines, electronics, and designer clothing.
In addition to providing strength and protection, the packaging for luxury and premium goods needs to reflect sophistication and sustainability. Consumers in this market are becoming more conscious of environmental issues, and there is growing pressure on brands to adopt eco-friendly packaging solutions. Kraft liners, with their recyclable properties and renewable raw materials, are becoming increasingly popular in this sector. They offer a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging materials while maintaining the high quality and aesthetic appeal that consumers expect from luxury goods packaging.
The growth of e-commerce has further fueled the demand for high-quality packaging solutions in the luxury and premium goods markets. With more consumers purchasing luxury products online, there is an increased need for packaging that ensures safe and secure delivery while preserving the product’s premium appearance. Kraft liners are well-suited to meet these requirements, offering a robust yet stylish option for shipping luxury items. As demand continues to rise, companies in the luxury goods sector are likely to invest more in advanced packaging technologies and sustainable materials to stay competitive in the market.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Kraft Liner Market include,
- NIPPON PAPER INDUSTRIES CO
- Papelera Carb
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Product
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By End Use
- Market Snapshot, By Source
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Kraft Liner Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers:
- Growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions.
- Increasing regulations on plastic usage and waste management.
- Expansion of e-commerce and retail industries requiring efficient packaging.
- Rising awareness about environmental impact and the need for recyclable materials.
- Restraints:
- High production costs of kraft liner compared to traditional packaging materials.
- Limited availability of raw materials, especially for premium kraft liner types.
- Competition from alternative packaging materials like plastic and flexible packaging.
- Fluctuations in the prices of wood pulp and other raw materials used in kraft liner production.
- Opportunities:
- Growth in the adoption of kraft liner in emerging markets, especially in Asia Pacific.
- Innovation in product formulations, such as the development of biodegradable kraft liners.
- Expanding applications in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and personal care.
- Increasing demand for high-quality, durable packaging solutions in luxury and premium goods markets.
- Drivers:
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Kraft Liner Market, By Product, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- GSM (Less than 80)
- GSM 80 to 160
- GSM (Greater than 160)
- Global Kraft Liner Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Adhesives
- Carbon Fiber Production
- Animal Feed
- Bioresins
- Soil Conditioning
- Global Kraft Liner Market, By Product, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Construction
- Agriculture
- Food Beverage
- Pharmaceutical
- Personal Care
- Global Kraft Liner Market, By End Use, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Softwood
- Hardwood
- Hybrid
- Global Kraft Liner Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Kraft Liner Market, By Product, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- NIPPON PAPER INDUSTRIES CO
- Papelera Carb
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market