Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Material;
Non-Biodegradable and Biodegradable.By Product;
Trash Bags, Rubble Sacks, and Woven Sacks.By Applications;
Retail & Consumer, Institutional Services, and Industrial.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market was valued at USD 21,855.40 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 24,677.41 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 1.8%.
The Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market is a large and expanding sector driven by increasing demand in industries such as retail, food packaging, agriculture, and consumer goods. Plastic bags and sacks are widely used for packaging and transporting goods due to their lightweight, durable, and cost-effective nature. The retail industry, particularly in supermarkets and hypermarkets, is one of the largest consumers of plastic bags for packaging groceries and other products. Additionally, the rising demand for e-commerce and online shopping has further increased the need for plastic bags for packaging shipments.
However, the market is facing growing environmental concerns regarding plastic waste and pollution. Many countries, especially in Europe and North America, are introducing regulations to reduce plastic usage by banning single-use plastic bags or encouraging alternatives like biodegradable bags. As a result, the market is witnessing a gradual shift toward eco-friendly alternatives such as paper bags, reusable bags, and compostable sacks. Despite these challenges, plastic bags continue to dominate the market due to their widespread availability and low cost, though the demand for sustainable packaging solutions is growing rapidly.
In Asia-Pacific, the market for plastic bags and sacks remains robust, driven by large-scale manufacturing industries and a booming retail sector. The region's rapid urbanization and growth in disposable income have spurred the demand for packaged goods, further fueling the use of plastic bags. In developing countries like India and China, the market is witnessing an increase in the use of plastic sacks for agricultural purposes, as they are essential for storing and transporting crops. Although the region is also becoming more aware of environmental issues, the plastic bags and sacks market is expected to remain strong in the near future due to the lack of stringent regulations and the continued use of plastic in everyday applications.
Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market Recent Developments
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In December 2023, Berry Global launched biodegradable plastic sacks compliant with new sustainability regulations for waste management.
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In April 2021, Novolex released reusable plastic bags made from recycled content, targeting retail and grocery stores.
Segment Analysis
The Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market has been segmented by Material, Product, Applications and Geography, each offering a comprehensive view of the market’s structure. The material segment includes various plastics used in manufacturing bags and sacks, such as LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene), HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), and LLDPE (Linear Low-Density Polyethylene). These materials are chosen for their specific properties such as flexibility, strength, and durability. LDPE is commonly used for lightweight and flexible bags, while HDPE offers high strength and resistance to tear, making it ideal for industrial and grocery bags. LLDPE is often used for its stretchability and higher tensile strength, which makes it suitable for heavy-duty sacks. The choice of material directly influences the performance, cost, and environmental impact of the final product, with more environmentally conscious consumers driving demand for biodegradable or recyclable plastic bags.
The product segment focuses on different types of plastic bags and sacks, including shopping bags, garment bags, t-shirt bags, vacuum bags, and biodegradable bags. Shopping bags dominate the market, as they are widely used in retail environments due to their low cost and convenience. T-shirt bags, also referred to as carry bags, are particularly popular in grocery stores and supermarkets for easy transport of goods. The increasing demand for biodegradable bags has been a significant trend in recent years, as environmentally conscious consumers and governments push for more sustainable alternatives to traditional plastic bags. This shift is expected to boost the market for eco-friendly plastic bags that are biodegradable or made from renewable resources.
The applications segment includes various industries that use plastic bags and sacks, such as retail, food packaging, industrial packaging, and agriculture. The retail sector remains the largest user, particularly for grocery shopping bags and packaging of goods in stores. The food packaging industry relies heavily on plastic bags and sacks for storing and protecting food items, with frozen food and produce packaging requiring high-quality, durable plastic materials. Industrial packaging utilizes larger sacks for bulk goods, while the agriculture industry uses plastic sacks for fertilizers, seeds, and other materials. Geographically, the demand for plastic bags and sacks varies, with North America and Europe pushing for stricter regulations on plastic usage, while regions like Asia-Pacific see high growth in demand due to increasing urbanization and retail activity. The combination of material selection, product variety, application range, and geographic trends highlights the complexity and growth potential of the global plastic bags and sacks market.
Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market has been segmented by Material, Product, Applications and Geography.
Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market, Segmentation by Material
The Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market has been segmented by Material into Non-Biodegradable and Biodegradable.
The Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market is segmented by material into Non-Biodegradable and Biodegradable categories, with non-biodegradable plastic bags currently holding a significant market share. Non-biodegradable plastic bags are primarily made from materials such as polyethylene, which is derived from petroleum. These bags are known for their durability, strength, and water resistance, making them ideal for a wide range of applications, particularly in retail, packaging, and industrial sectors. Despite their popularity, non-biodegradable bags pose environmental challenges due to their long decomposition time, contributing to plastic pollution, especially in oceans and landfills. As a result, regulatory measures are pushing industries to find alternatives or use non-biodegradable bags in a more sustainable manner, such as increasing recycling efforts.
The Biodegradable plastic bags and sacks segment is gaining traction due to rising environmental awareness and government regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste. These bags are typically made from plant-based materials like starch, polylactic acid (PLA), or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), which break down more quickly in the environment compared to traditional plastic. Biodegradable plastic bags are increasingly being adopted in both consumer and institutional applications as a sustainable alternative to their non-biodegradable counterparts. However, the high production cost of biodegradable plastics compared to conventional plastics remains a barrier to their widespread adoption. Despite this, consumer demand for eco-friendly products is driving growth in this segment, particularly in regions with strict environmental regulations.
The ongoing shift towards biodegradable plastics is further accelerated by the increasing number of brands and companies seeking to improve their environmental footprint and align with sustainability goals. Biodegradable plastic bags are finding more uses in industries such as food service, retail, and packaging. The adoption of biodegradable alternatives also extends to the institutional and industrial sectors, where environmental responsibility is becoming a key consideration in procurement decisions. While biodegradable plastic bags are still a relatively small segment compared to non-biodegradable bags, their market share is expected to grow as technology improves, costs decrease, and more countries enforce bans or taxes on traditional plastic bags.
Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market, Segmentation by Product
The Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market has been segmented by Product into Trash Bags, Rubble Sacks and Woven Sacks.
The Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market is segmented by product into trash bags, rubble sacks, and woven sacks, each serving distinct purposes and industries. Trash bags are one of the most widely used products in the market, essential for household, commercial, and industrial waste management. These bags are made from durable plastics, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), offering strength and puncture resistance to contain waste. Trash bags come in various sizes and thicknesses, catering to different needs, from small bags for home use to large industrial bags for heavy-duty waste collection. With growing urbanization and waste management concerns, the demand for trash bags is expected to remain strong across both residential and commercial sectors.
Rubble sacks, which are designed for construction and industrial applications, form another important segment within the plastic bags and sacks market. These bags are made from heavier-duty materials such as woven polypropylene (PP), which offers higher strength and tear resistance compared to standard plastic bags. Rubble sacks are primarily used for containing construction debris, such as rocks, sand, and rubble, and are increasingly popular in construction sites and demolition projects. These sacks are designed to withstand the rough handling associated with construction waste, offering a safe and convenient method for transporting and disposing of bulky materials. The construction boom in emerging economies, along with a rise in construction and demolition activities globally, is expected to drive significant demand for rubble sacks.
Woven sacks are another major segment, commonly used in agricultural and industrial applications. Made from woven polypropylene or polyethylene, these sacks are known for their durability and high tensile strength, making them ideal for storing and transporting bulk goods such as grains, fertilizers, and chemicals. Woven sacks are highly versatile, as they can be used for packaging a wide range of products, from foodstuffs to industrial materials. The agricultural sector, particularly in regions with high crop production, is a major consumer of woven sacks for storing harvested crops and seeds. Additionally, the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions has led to increased interest in woven sacks, as they are often reusable and recyclable, making them a more sustainable option compared to single-use plastic bags.
Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market, Segmentation by Applications
The Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market has been segmented by Applications into Retail & Consumer, Institutional Services and Industrial.
The Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market is broadly segmented by application into Retail & Consumer, Institutional Services, and Industrial sectors. In the Retail & Consumer segment, plastic bags are predominantly used for packaging groceries, clothing, and other consumer products. This segment remains the largest due to the widespread use of plastic bags in supermarkets, convenience stores, and shopping malls. Plastic bags are popular in this category because they are lightweight, affordable, and convenient for both retailers and consumers. However, growing environmental awareness and regulatory pressure in some regions are driving a shift towards more sustainable alternatives, although plastic bags continue to dominate this application.
The Institutional Services segment includes applications in hospitals, educational institutions, and government buildings. Here, plastic bags and sacks are used for waste disposal, storage, and packaging of medical supplies. In healthcare settings, specifically, plastic bags are essential for managing medical waste, storing sterile items, and packaging pharmaceuticals. The institutional sector's reliance on plastic bags is bolstered by their hygiene properties, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The demand for plastic bags in this segment is steady, but there is an increasing push for more eco-friendly alternatives, particularly in hospitals and institutions striving for sustainability in their operations.
The Industrial application segment covers a wide range of uses, including packaging, shipping, and storage in manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics. Plastic sacks, in particular, are heavily used in industries like construction, agriculture, and chemicals, where they are ideal for packaging bulk products like grains, fertilizers, and chemicals. These bags and sacks are valued for their strength and flexibility, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. In agriculture, for example, they are used for storing harvested crops. As industrial applications grow, the demand for plastic bags and sacks in this sector is likely to increase, particularly in regions with strong manufacturing and agricultural outputs, despite the rising demand for more sustainable materials in industrial packaging.
Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
The Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market exhibits diverse growth across various regions, with North America holding a substantial market share. The demand for plastic bags and sacks in North America is primarily driven by the retail and packaging sectors, with supermarkets, grocery stores, and e-commerce businesses being key contributors to the consumption of plastic bags. Additionally, regulatory measures in several states that aim to reduce plastic waste have led to a shift towards biodegradable alternatives. However, North America remains one of the largest consumers of plastic bags, despite growing concerns about environmental impacts. The market is also influenced by consumer preference for convenience and the low cost of non-biodegradable options.
In the Asia-Pacific region, the plastic bags and sacks market is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by the expanding retail industry, increased urbanization, and rising consumer demand for packaged goods. Countries like China, India, and Japan are major markets for plastic bags due to the high population density and strong demand from industries such as food packaging, logistics, and manufacturing. However, the region is also seeing a rising emphasis on sustainability, with governments beginning to enforce stricter regulations on plastic usage. As a result, while the market remains large, the trend towards biodegradable and eco-friendly plastic bags is gaining momentum, especially in environmentally conscious urban centers.
The European market has been seeing a shift towards reducing plastic consumption, driven by stringent regulations and growing environmental concerns. Several European countries have implemented plastic bag bans or taxes, which has led to a decline in the use of non-biodegradable plastic bags. In response, the demand for biodegradable alternatives and reusable bags is on the rise. As a result, the market share for non-biodegradable plastic bags in Europe is decreasing, and businesses are increasingly adopting sustainable packaging solutions. Countries such as Germany, France, and the UK are leading this shift, and the market in Europe is expected to continue evolving as more consumers and businesses prioritize sustainability.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis
Drivers:
- Convenience and Versatility
- Cost-effectiveness
- Durability and Protection
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Innovation in Material Science - Continual progress in material science has revolutionized the landscape of plastic films and resins, resulting in the creation of advanced solutions that redefine the capabilities of plastic bags and sacks. These innovations prioritize enhancing key attributes such as strength, flexibility, and sustainability, thereby addressing longstanding concerns within the industry. Through the application of cutting-edge technologies and research methodologies, manufacturers have succeeded in developing high-performance materials that surpass traditional plastic compositions. These modern formulations not only bolster the durability and resilience of plastic bags and sacks but also imbue them with newfound flexibility, enabling enhanced usability across a spectrum of applications.
One of the most notable breakthroughs in material science has been the emergence of biodegradable plastics and recycled materials. These sustainable alternatives offer a compelling solution to environmental challenges associated with conventional plastic products. Biodegradable plastics undergo decomposition through natural processes, minimizing their environmental impact and contributing to a more sustainable future. Similarly, the utilization of recycled materials in plastic bag production not only diverts waste from landfills but also conserves valuable resources. By integrating these eco-friendly materials into their manufacturing processes, companies are aligning with global efforts to mitigate plastic pollution and foster a circular economy, all while maintaining the functional integrity and performance of plastic bags and sacks.
Restraints:
- Environmental Concerns
- Ban and Regulation
- Shift Towards Sustainable Alternatives
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Volatile Raw Material Prices - Customizable and personalized plastic bags and sacks provide manufacturers with a unique opportunity to tailor their products to meet the diverse needs and preferences of customers. By offering customization options such as different sizes, colors, designs, and branding opportunities, manufacturers can cater to specific requirements across various industries and niche markets. This flexibility allows businesses to align their packaging solutions with their branding strategies and target audience preferences, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Whether it's a small boutique looking for branded packaging or a large retailer seeking unique designs, customizable plastic bags and sacks enable manufacturers to meet the individual demands of their customers effectively.
Moreover, personalized plastic bags and sacks not only serve functional purposes but also serve as powerful marketing tools. By incorporating logos, slogans, or promotional messages onto the packaging, businesses can effectively promote their brand and products to a wider audience. This branding opportunity extends beyond the point of sale, as customers become walking advertisements when they carry branded bags in public spaces. As a result, personalized plastic bags and sacks not only enhance customer satisfaction by meeting specific needs but also contribute to brand visibility and recognition, ultimately driving customer loyalty and repeat business.
Opportunities:
- Biodegradable Alternatives
- Technological Innovation
- Market Expansion
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Customization and Personalization -Customizable and personalized plastic bags and sacks provide manufacturers with a unique opportunity to tailor their products to meet the diverse needs and preferences of customers. By offering customization options such as different sizes, colors, designs, and branding opportunities, manufacturers can cater to specific requirements across various industries and niche markets. This flexibility allows businesses to align their packaging solutions with their branding strategies and target audience preferences, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Whether it's a small boutique looking for branded packaging or a large retailer seeking unique designs, customizable plastic bags and sacks enable manufacturers to meet the individual demands of their customers effectively.
Moreover, personalized plastic bags and sacks not only serve functional purposes but also serve as powerful marketing tools. By incorporating logos, slogans, or promotional messages onto the packaging, businesses can effectively promote their brand and products to a wider audience. This branding opportunity extends beyond the point of sale, as customers become walking advertisements when they carry branded bags in public spaces. As a result, personalized plastic bags and sacks not only enhance customer satisfaction by meeting specific needs but also contribute to brand visibility and recognition, ultimately driving customer loyalty and repeat business.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market include.
- Novolex.
- T.S.T Plaspack.
- Unistar Plastics.
- Advance Polybag.
- Olympic Plastic Bags.
- Superbag.
- Xtex Polythene.
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 Material
- Market Snapshot, By Product
- Market Snapshot, By Applications
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Convenience and Versatility
- Cost-effectiveness
- Durability and Protection
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Innovation in Material Science
- Restraints
- Environmental Concerns
- Ban and Regulation
- Shift Towards Sustainable Alternatives
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Volatile Raw Material Prices
- Opportunities
- Biodegradable Alternatives
- Technological Innovation
- Market Expansion
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Customization and Personalization
- 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 Plastic Bags & Sacks Market, By Material, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Non-Biodegradable
- Biodegradable
- Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market, By Product, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Trash Bags
- Rubble Sacks
- Woven Sacks
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Global Plastic Bags & Sacks Market, By Applications, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Retail & Consumer
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Institutional Services
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Industrial
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- Global Plastic Bags & Sacks 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 Plastic Bags & Sacks Market, By Material, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Novolex
- T.S.T Plaspack
- Unistar Plastics
- Advance Polybag
- Olympic Plastic Bags
- Superbag
- Xtex Polythene
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market