Global Gravure Printing Ink Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

The resin type segment is a critical factor as it determines the ink’s quality, performance, and suitability for various substrates. Common resin types used in gravure inks include nitrocellulose, polyamide, polyurethane, and acrylic resins. Nitrocellulose-based inks are widely used for packaging due to their excellent adhesion properties, while polyurethane-based resins are preferred for their high resistance to abrasion and chemicals, making them suitable for packaging materials that require durability. Each resin type is selected based on its ability to meet specific printing needs such as fast drying times, resistance to environmental factors, and compatibility with various printing substrates.

The market is also segmented by type, with the primary categories being solvent-based, water-based, and UV-cured inks. Solvent-based inks are traditionally used in gravure printing due to their ability to provide high-quality prints on a variety of substrates, especially for flexible packaging. Water-based inks, which are gaining popularity due to their environmental benefits, are increasingly used in industries seeking to reduce VOC emissions and meet sustainability standards. UV-cured inks, which offer faster drying times and enhanced print durability, are particularly popular in applications requiring high-performance prints with minimal environmental impact. These types of inks are contributing to the growing demand for gravure printing solutions, driven by both performance and eco-consciousness.

In terms of application, the gravure printing ink market is primarily driven by the packaging, publication, and labeling industries. Packaging is the dominant segment, as gravure printing is ideal for producing high-quality, vibrant prints on a variety of packaging materials, including plastic films, paper, and foil. The food and beverage sector, in particular, relies heavily on gravure inks for producing attractive and informative packaging that appeals to consumers. Additionally, the publication industry, including newspapers and magazines, continues to use gravure printing due to its high-speed capabilities and cost-effectiveness for large print runs. The labeling industry also benefits from gravure printing due to its ability to produce detailed, high-resolution prints on a range of label materials. As demand for packaging continues to grow, especially in emerging economies, the application of gravure printing inks across these industries is expected to expand in the coming years.

Geographically, the gravure printing ink market shows significant growth in regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, and Europe. Asia Pacific leads the market, driven by the rapid growth of the packaging industry, particularly in China, India, and Southeast Asia. These regions are increasingly adopting gravure printing technology to meet the rising demand for high-quality packaging solutions. North America and Europe also represent substantial markets, with Europe focusing on sustainability and the adoption of eco-friendly inks, while North America experiences steady growth due to the demand for gravure printed materials in packaging and publication. Other regions, including the Middle East and Africa and Latin America, are anticipated to see growth driven by urbanization, industrialization, and the increasing demand for printed packaging in developing markets. Over the 2020-2030 forecast period, these geographical segments are expected to continue evolving as both technological advancements and changing consumer demands shape the gravure printing ink market.

Global Gravure Printing Ink Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Gravure Printing Ink Market has been segmented by Resin Type, Type, Application, and Geography.

Global Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Resin Type

The Global Gravure Printing Ink Market has been segmented by Resin Type into Nitrocellulose, Polyurethane, Polyamide, Acrylic and Others.

This resin provides fast drying times and good resistance to abrasion, making it ideal for high-speed printing applications. Nitrocellulose-based inks are commonly used in the food and beverage packaging sector, where quick turnaround and high-quality prints are critical. The versatility and reliability of this resin type have contributed to its dominance in the market, particularly in flexible packaging applications.

Polyurethane resins are another key component in gravure printing inks, known for their outstanding resistance to abrasion, heat, and chemicals. This makes them particularly suitable for applications that require long-lasting durability, such as industrial and outdoor packaging. Polyurethane-based inks are also favored in situations where high performance and resistance to wear and tear are required. The increased demand for durable packaging in sectors like automotive and electronics has driven the use of polyurethane gravure inks. Their versatility, especially for producing prints on various substrates, positions polyurethane as an essential resin type in the gravure printing ink market.

Polyamide and acrylic resins are also critical in the gravure ink market, offering distinct benefits for specific applications. Polyamide resins are known for their excellent adhesion to difficult substrates and high resistance to oil and water, making them ideal for packaging in the chemical, cosmetic, and personal care sectors. Acrylic resins, on the other hand, are popular for their excellent clarity and weather resistance, making them ideal for outdoor applications and packaging materials exposed to environmental factors. Acrylic-based inks provide bright, vibrant colors and are often used for high-quality prints on products requiring visual appeal and durability. These resins, along with other specialty resins, help diversify the range of applications that gravure printing inks can serve, ensuring high performance across various industries.

Global Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Gravure Printing Ink Market has been segmented by Type into Oil based, Solvent based, Water based and Others.

Oil-based inks are traditionally used in gravure printing due to their ability to deliver rich, high-quality prints with excellent adhesion and fast drying times. These inks are ideal for printing on a variety of substrates, including plastics, films, and paper, making them particularly popular in the packaging industry. Oil-based inks offer good flow properties and vibrant colors, which makes them a preferred choice for applications requiring detailed and consistent prints. However, their use is gradually declining due to environmental concerns regarding volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.

Solvent-based inks, which contain solvents like alcohols or ketones, are commonly used in gravure printing for applications that require durable and high-quality prints. These inks provide strong adhesion and can be applied to non-porous substrates such as films and foils, which are commonly used in flexible packaging. Solvent-based inks also offer good color intensity and excellent resistance to fading and weathering, making them ideal for outdoor and industrial applications. However, concerns over their environmental impact, particularly their VOC emissions, have prompted a shift toward more eco-friendly alternatives, leading to the increased adoption of water-based and UV-cured inks.

Water-based inks are gaining popularity in the gravure printing market as a more environmentally friendly alternative to solvent-based inks. These inks use water as a solvent instead of petroleum-based chemicals, significantly reducing VOC emissions and environmental impact. Water-based gravure inks offer good adhesion, excellent print quality, and are especially useful in applications where sustainability is a priority, such as in food and beverage packaging. They are also gaining traction in the textile and paper industries due to their eco-friendly properties. Despite these advantages, water-based inks can require longer drying times and more specialized equipment, which can present challenges in high-speed, high-volume printing operations. Other types of inks, such as UV-cured inks, are also emerging as alternatives that offer fast drying and lower environmental impact, further diversifying the options available in the gravure printing ink market.

Global Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Gravure Printing Ink Market has been segmented by Application into Publication, Packaging, Furniture and Others.

In the publication industry, gravure printing inks are commonly used for high-quality printing in newspapers, magazines, and books. Gravure printing is ideal for large-volume, high-speed printing due to its ability to produce consistent and detailed images. The inks used in publication applications are designed to offer high color fidelity and smooth finishes, ensuring that print materials are visually appealing and professional. The demand for gravure printing in publications continues to be strong, particularly in markets where mass production of printed materials is required.

Packaging is another key application segment for gravure printing inks. The demand for packaging materials, particularly flexible packaging, continues to grow, driven by the increasing need for visually attractive, durable, and functional packaging solutions. Gravure inks are often used in packaging applications for food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. They are ideal for printing on a variety of substrates such as plastic films, aluminum foils, and paper-based materials. Gravure printing provides high-resolution images, vibrant colors, and consistent quality, making it the preferred method for packaging design. Furthermore, with the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions, the gravure printing industry is adapting by using water-based inks to reduce environmental impact.

The furniture industry also utilizes gravure printing inks, particularly for decorative finishes on wood, plastic, and other materials. Gravure inks are used to print high-quality designs and patterns on furniture surfaces, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of products such as cabinets, flooring, and wall coverings. These inks can create intricate designs and textures, offering a superior finish that is both durable and visually striking. Gravure printing allows for the production of detailed, fine graphics that are essential for the modern furniture market, where design is a key factor. Additionally, the "Others" segment includes applications such as textiles, automotive, and electronics, where gravure printing inks are used for various decorative and functional purposes. This broad range of applications demonstrates the versatility of gravure printing, making it a crucial technology in multiple industries.

Global Gravure Printing Ink Market, Segmentation by Geography

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

Global Gravure Printing Ink Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America remains a significant player in the global gravure printing ink market, driven by the robust demand for high-quality printed materials in sectors like packaging, publication, and advertising. The region’s established infrastructure and technological advancements in printing, along with increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly inks, are contributing to market growth. Additionally, stringent environmental regulations are driving the shift toward water-based and low-VOC inks, influencing the market dynamics in this region. The timeline from 2020 to 2030 is expected to see steady growth in North America as businesses increasingly adopt advanced printing technologies and more environmentally responsible solutions.

Europe holds a considerable share of the global gravure printing ink market, with countries such as Germany, the UK, and France leading the way. The European market is characterized by strong demand from packaging industries, particularly in food and beverage sectors, where high-quality and sustainable packaging solutions are increasingly prioritized. Europe’s focus on environmental sustainability and the adoption of green technologies is fueling the demand for water-based and UV-cured gravure inks, which are less harmful to the environment. The region's advancements in printing technology, combined with consumer preferences for eco-friendly products, are expected to drive the gravure printing ink market in the coming years, particularly through 2030.

Asia Pacific is anticipated to experience the fastest growth in the gravure printing ink market during the 2020-2030 period. The region’s booming manufacturing sectors, rapid industrialization, and increasing demand for packaging materials are major factors contributing to the growth of gravure printing. China, India, Japan, and South Korea are among the leading countries in this market, with the growing popularity of flexible packaging, consumer goods, and electronics driving ink demand. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce and consumerism in the region is boosting the need for high-quality printed packaging, further contributing to the demand for gravure printing inks. The shift towards more environmentally friendly solutions is also prominent in Asia Pacific, as companies seek to comply with international environmental standards and meet consumer demand for sustainable products.

The Middle East and Africa and Latin America represent emerging markets for gravure printing ink, with both regions showing potential for growth due to expanding industrial sectors and an increasing need for packaging solutions. In the Middle East and Africa, the growing demand for packaging in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics is expected to drive market growth. Similarly, Latin America, particularly Brazil and Mexico, is witnessing increased demand for printed packaging as the consumer goods industry expands. While these regions face unique challenges, such as economic instability and infrastructure limitations, the rising demand for printed materials in both packaging and publication sectors offers significant growth opportunities through 2030.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global 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 global 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.

Key players in Global Gravure Printing Ink Market include :

• DIC Corp
• Flint Group
• InkTec Co. Ltd
• SAKATA INX Corp
• Siegwerk Druckfarben AG & Co. KGaA
• T&K TOKA Co. Ltd
• Tokyo Printing Ink Mfg Co.Ltd
• Toyo Ink SC Holdings Co. Ltd
• Wikoff Color Corp

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