Middle East & Africa Biodegradable Packaging Market Outlook, 2028

Biodegradable packaging materials have gained significant importance in the Middle East and Africa due to growing environmental awareness and the need for sustainable solutions in these regions. In the Middle East, where plastic pollution has been a pressing concern, biodegradable packaging materials offer a promising alternative to traditional plastics. These materials often made from renewable resources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, or potato starch, break down naturally over time, reducing the burden of non-biodegradable waste in the region's arid landscapes and oceans. The MEA region has a significant potential for the development and manufacturing of biodegradable packaging materials. The region has access to a variety of renewable raw materials, such as agricultural waste products and algae. Additionally, the region is home to a growing number of companies that are investing in the development of sustainable packaging solutions. Researchers and manufacturers in the region have been working on developing new biodegradable materials that are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective and efficient. These materials often leverage nanotechnology and bioengineering to enhance their properties, making them more suitable for various packaging applications. Integration of smart packaging technologies like QR codes, RFID tags, and sensors has enabled better tracking and monitoring of products throughout the supply chain, thus increasing the awareness among consumers and promoting the use of these packaging materials.

According to the research report "Middle East & Africa Biodegradable Packaging Market Overview, 2028," the market is anticipated to reach approximately at USD 3 Billion by 2028. The market for biodegradable packaging materials in MEA is expanding significantly, which reflects the region's rising dedication to environmental sustainability and its understanding of the urgency of mitigating the negative effects of conventional plastics. Moving toward more environmentally friendly and sustainable methods is crucial as MEA aims to diversify its economy and lessen its dependency on fossil fuels. The development of the market for biodegradable packaging has been greatly aided by government efforts and policies. To reduce the use of single-use plastics and encourage the adoption of biodegradable substitutes, regulatory frameworks and incentives have been put in place. As a result, businesses and industries in MEA are proactively incorporating biodegradable packaging materials into their strategies. The growth of the biodegradable packaging material market is also being driven by advancements in technology and research. Ongoing research and development efforts are producing innovative biodegradable materials that are both eco-friendly and capable of meeting the stringent quality and performance requirements of modern packaging applications, including in the food and beverage, healthcare, and retail sectors; such as nanotechnology is being employed to enhance the properties of biodegradable materials. Nanoparticles improve the strength, barrier properties, and durability of biodegradable packaging, making it a more viable option for various applications. To improve the shelf life of perishable goods, advanced barrier coatings are applied to biodegradable materials. These coatings protect against moisture, oxygen, and UV light, extending the product's freshness. These all factors are overall contributing to the growth of biodegradable packaging material in Middle East and Africa.

In the dynamic landscape of biodegradable packaging materials in the Middle East and Africa, South Africa has emerged as a dominant force, spearheading the adoption of sustainable packaging solutions in the region. As a nation keenly attuned to environmental concerns and committed to reducing plastic waste, South Africa has made significant strides in embracing biodegradable packaging across various sectors. The government's supportive policies, stringent regulations against single-use plastics, and incentives for eco-friendly alternatives have propelled South Africa to the forefront of the market. The country's robust agricultural and forestry sectors provide a steady supply of raw materials for biodegradable packaging, further fueling its growth. Following South Africa, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have also made noteworthy strides in incorporating biodegradable packaging solutions. Both nations, driven by their economic affluence, are actively investing in sustainable packaging research and technology, contributing to the growing regional market. The UAE, in particular, with its strategic position as a trade and business hub, is becoming a pivotal player in the promotion of biodegradable packaging within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. These countries are paving the way for the adoption of advanced materials, smart packaging technologies, and waste-to-energy solutions to not only meet their sustainability goals but also influence neighboring nations in the Middle East and Africa. Their proactive approach, coupled with evolving consumer preferences for environmentally responsible products, solidifies their positions as key drivers of the burgeoning biodegradable packaging materials market in the region.

With a primary focus on biodegradable paper, biodegradable plastics, and bagasse, the market for biodegradable packaging materials in MEA is distinguished by a considerable segmentation based on material types. Biodegradable paper becomes the dominating and most popular material on the market, demonstrating MEA's growing dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly packaging options. Biodegradable paper is sought for a variety of uses, from food packaging to consumer goods, where it serves as a symbol of environmentally responsible activities. It is also preferred for its renewable sourcing, recyclability, and versatility. Following closely in the market landscape are biodegradable plastics, which represent a significant share of the market, attesting to the advancements in technology and innovation that are enabling the development of more eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics. These biodegradable plastic materials are designed to decompose more readily in natural environments, aligning with global concerns related to plastic pollution. Bagasse, derived from the residue of sugarcane processing, also holds its place in the market, typically employed for specific packaging needs and celebrated for its renewable and biodegradable characteristics. MEA’s preference for these materials, with biodegradable paper leading the way, underscores the nation's dedication to sustainability and reducing environmental impact, reflecting a pivotal role in embracing and promoting eco-friendly packaging solutions.

The biodegradable papers market demonstrates a robust segmentation, with a diverse range of categories, including corrugated fiberboards, kraft paper, paperboards, flexible paper, box board, and various other variations. Notably, corrugated fiberboards emerge as the frontrunners in this market, showcasing their versatility and significance in the packaging landscape. Characterized by a robust, layered structure, corrugated fiberboards are extensively favored for their exceptional protective capabilities, making them a preferred choice for safeguarding products during transit and storage, thus addressing the diverse packaging needs of a wide range of industries. Following closely in the market hierarchy are kraft papers, highly regarded for their durability and eco-friendly attributes. Kraft paper has garnered its own niche as a versatile and sustainable packaging solution in the MEA. The others category, encompassing a variety of biodegradable paper materials catering to specific packaging requirements, further contributes to the market's diversification. In MEA, the biodegradable packaging materials market is meticulously segmented based on the types of biodegradable plastics utilized, encompassing various categories such as cellulose-based plastics, polylactic acid (PLA), starch-based bioplastics, poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and other innovative bioplastics like protein-based and genetically modified bioplastics. Remarkably, cellulose-based plastics exert a dominant presence within the market, reflecting their sustainability and environmentally friendly attributes. These plastics, derived from renewable cellulose sources, are highly favored for their biodegradability and minimal ecological footprint, making them a preferred choice for a wide range of applications. Following cellulose-based plastics, PLA, a versatile bioplastic manufactured from renewable resources like corn starch, holds a significant market share, known for its sustainable nature and diverse applications.

Based on the applications, the biodegradable packaging materials holds the significant roles in Food Packaging, Beverage Packaging, Personal/Homecare Packaging, Healthcare/Pharmaceutical, Logistic, Others (Agriculture). With a sizable market share, biodegradable packaging materials have become a revolutionary force in the packaging business, especially in the food packaging sector. The push for sustainability and environmental awareness has increased demand for packaging options that leave a less environmental footprint. In the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, where the necessity for sterile, secure, and environmentally responsible packaging is of the utmost significance, biodegradable packaging materials have found appealing applications. Single-use medical items and devices, such as disposable syringes, bandages, and surgical tools, are subject to strict hygiene regulations in the healthcare industry. By offering a sterile and compostable substitute to conventional plastics, biodegradable materials provide an important option. They reduce the risk of contamination and the environmental burden associated with medical waste. In the beverage packaging sector, biodegradable materials are used in the production of bottles, caps, and labels, offering a greener solution to the plastic pollution crisis. These materials also ensure that beverages remain uncontaminated while being environmentally responsible. In the personal care industry, biodegradable packaging materials are employed for items like shampoos, soaps, and cosmetics, contributing to reducing plastic waste and promoting a circular economy. This shift towards biodegradable packaging materials is a testament to the growing global commitment to environmental preservation, as they not only reduce the carbon footprint but also align with consumer demands for sustainable products, making them an integral component of a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible packaging industry.

The market is segmented on the basis of Distribution Channels into Wholesalers, Retailers, and Others. Wholesalers occupy center stage in the distribution network for biodegradable packaging materials, acting as the main route for these environmentally friendly products to reach different businesses and consumers. As key linkers in the supply chain, wholesalers procure biodegradable packaging products from producers and distribute them to a variety of shops, companies, and even other specialized suppliers. They frequently have the size and infrastructure to handle large orders and meet the demands of a variety of industries, including food and hospitality, retail, and healthcare. Additionally, retailers constitute a significant distribution channel, particularly as the demand for eco-friendly products and packaging materials continues to grow among consumers. Retailers include supermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms that directly provide biodegradable packaging options to end-users, capitalizing on the increasing consumer awareness of environmental issues and their preference for sustainable choices. Apart from these two prominent distribution channels, other channels also contribute to the dissemination of biodegradable packaging materials, such as specialized suppliers who focus exclusively on serving specific industries or clients with unique requirements. The multifaceted distribution landscape reflects the MEA's commitment to adopting more sustainable packaging solutions, in line with global trends towards environmental consciousness, and positions the nation as a pivotal player in promoting eco-friendly alternatives in the region.

Companies covered in the report:

WestRock Company, BASF SE, Amcor Plc, Mondi Group, Sealed Air Corporation, DuPont, Stora Enso Oyj, Huhtamaki Group.

Start-ups:

• Back to Nature is a Dubai-based start-up that produces biodegradable packaging products from plant-based materials such as sugarcane and bamboo. The company's products include food service packaging, food wraps, and retail packaging.
• A Saudi Arabian initiative for specialised food packaging costing an estimated SR1 billion ($266 million) is being planned by the UAE-based Hotpack Global in order to provide environmentally friendly goods.

Considered in this report:

• Geography: Middle East & Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report:

• Middle East & Africa Biodegradable Packaging market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Biodegradable Packaging market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Country covered in the report:

• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

By Material Type:

• Paper
• Plastic
• Bagasse

By Paper:

• Corrugated Fiberboard
• Kraft Paper
• Paperboard
• Flexible Paper
• Boxboard
• Others (Greaseproof paper, Corrugated BubbleWrap)

By Plastic:

• Cellulose-based plastics
• Polylactic acid (PLA)
• Starch Based
• Poly-3-Hydroxybutyrate (PHB)
• Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)
• Others (protein-based bioplastics, genetically modified bioplastics)

By Application:

• Food Packaging
• Beverage Packaging
• Personal/Homecare Packaging
• Healthcare/Pharmaceutical
• Logistic
• Others (Agriculture)

By Distribution Channel:

• Wholesalers
• Retailers
• Others

Intended audience:

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organisations related to the Biodegradable Packaging 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.