Japan Paper Bag Market Overview, 2029

The paper bag market in Japan has gained significant momentum in recent years, largely due to the country’s increasing focus on environmental sustainability and reducing plastic waste. Historically, Japan has embraced paper packaging, rooted in traditional values of simplicity and a deep connection to nature. However, the modern push for paper bags has been catalyzed by governmental regulations aimed at curbing the use of plastic. In July 2020, Japan introduced a nationwide charge on plastic bags, a pivotal move that marked a significant shift in consumer behavior. The introduction of this charge encouraged consumers to adopt more environmentally friendly alternatives, including reusable and paper bags. Alongside this, Japan’s "Resource Circulation Strategy for Plastics" aims to reduce the use of plastic by 25% by 2030, a bold target that aligns with global sustainability efforts. This shift is further supported by Japan's advanced waste management and recycling policies, which make paper bags an even more attractive option due to their recyclability. As consumer awareness about ecological issues grows, industries such as retail, food service, and luxury goods are increasingly adopting paper bags as part of their broader sustainability initiatives. This shift not only meets regulatory requirements but also aligns with changing consumer expectations for sustainable packaging.

According to the research report "Japan Paper Bag Market Overview, 2029," the market is anticipated to add USD 130 Million from 2024 to 2029. A combination of factors is driving this growth, including strong governmental support for environmental initiatives, stricter regulations on plastic use, and an increasing preference for sustainable packaging among consumers. The retail sector, in particular, has embraced the use of paper bags, especially in department stores and high-end fashion brands, where sustainability has become a key aspect of brand identity. Consumers are now more inclined to support businesses that demonstrate environmental responsibility, and this has encouraged companies to shift away from plastic in favor of eco-friendly packaging. Major players in Japan’s paper bag market, including domestic companies like Nippon Paper Industries and Oji Holdings Corporation, as well as international firms such as Smurfit Kappa, have invested heavily in developing innovative, sustainable packaging materials. These companies are leveraging advanced manufacturing techniques to enhance the functionality and durability of paper bags, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, from retail and food service to industrial uses. The growth of e-commerce and food delivery services has also spurred demand for durable, versatile paper bags, creating new opportunities for manufacturers.

Japan’s paper bag market offers a wide variety of product types, each tailored to the needs of different industries. For example, Pasted Valve bags are commonly used in agriculture, chemicals, and construction industries, where their durability and dust-proof properties make them ideal for packaging bulk materials like grains, cement, and fertilizers. Sewn Open Mouth bags are widely used in the food and beverage industry, as well as in the pet food sector. These bags are known for their strong construction and secure closures, making them perfect for packaging products such as flour, pet food, and powdered goods. Pinched Bottom Open Mouth bags are popular in industrial sectors for packaging fine materials like cement, chemicals, and minerals, thanks to their quick-filling capabilities and high durability. Pasted Open Mouth bags, another common choice, are used in both food and non-food industries for bulk packaging, offering ease of filling and secure sealing to maintain product integrity. Meanwhile, Flat Bottom bags are gaining traction in retail and food packaging due to their stability and space-efficient design. These bags are particularly favored by premium brands, as their ability to stand upright on store shelves enhances product visibility and overall consumer appeal.

The end-user industries for Japan’s paper bag market are varied, each with specific needs that paper bags can effectively address. The food and beverage sector is a major consumer of paper bags, especially for takeout, groceries, and specialty food packaging. As sustainability becomes a growing focus for both consumers and businesses, there is an increasing demand for biodegradable and compostable packaging options in this industry. In the retail sector, particularly among high-end department stores and luxury brands, paper bags play a vital role in creating a sustainable brand image. These businesses often opt for high-quality, customizable paper bags that not only serve functional purposes but also align with environmental goals. The agriculture industry relies on durable paper bags for packaging products like seeds, fertilizers, and animal feed, where strength and protection from moisture are crucial. The building and construction industry uses paper bags for packaging materials like cement and mortar, where durability and ease of handling are essential. In the chemicals and pharmaceuticals sector, paper bags are used for lighter materials and powders, with a strong focus on dust-proof and secure packaging. The market is segmented by thickness, with 1-ply, 2-ply, and 3-ply options available to cater to different packaging needs. Material choice also plays a significant role, with Brown Kraft Paper being the most common due to its durability and eco-friendliness, and White Kraft Paper preferred for high-quality printing and branding applications.

Looking ahead, Japan’s paper bag market is well-positioned for sustained growth, driven by stringent environmental regulations, evolving consumer preferences for eco-friendly packaging, and ongoing innovation within the paper bag manufacturing industry. Companies are increasingly focusing on developing sustainable materials that not only meet regulatory and environmental goals but also enhance the durability and visual appeal of their packaging solutions. Japan’s government continues to push for a reduction in plastic waste and an increase in recycling efforts, which aligns with broader global sustainability trends. As a result, paper bags will continue to play an essential role in the country’s packaging industry. Moreover, consumer purchasing decisions are increasingly influenced by sustainability considerations, prompting businesses across various sectors, from retail to construction, to adopt eco-friendly packaging alternatives. The rise of e-commerce and the food delivery sector further boosts the demand for paper bags, as these industries require durable and environmentally sustainable packaging solutions. As Japan continues to prioritize environmental sustainability, the paper bag market is set to expand, with key players leading the charge in innovation and environmental responsibility. This market will be a crucial element in Japan’s broader sustainability strategy, contributing significantly to reducing the country’s reliance on plastic and enhancing its global standing in eco-friendly practices



Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• Paper Bag market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Pasted Valve
• Sewn Open Mouth
• Pinched Bottom Open Mouth
• Pasted Open Mouth
• Flat Bottom
• Others

By End-User Industry
• Food & Beverage
• Retail
• Agriculture
• Building & Construction
• Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals
• Others

By Thickness
• 1 Ply
• 2 Ply
• 3 Ply or More

By Material Type
• Brown Kraft Paper
• White Kraft Paper

By Distribution Channel
• Offline
• Online

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Paper Bag industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.