Africa’s paper sacks and bags market poised for steady growth, expected to hit US$115.8B by 2035 – IndexBox

AFRICA – Africa’s paper sacks and bags market is set to experience consistent expansion, fueled by rising demand for sustainable and versatile packaging solutions across the continent.

According to a new market report from IndexBox, the industry is projected to grow with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.2% in volume and 3.0% in value, reaching a market size of 49 million tonnes and US$115.8 billion by 2035.

The growth is underpinned by increased consumption across key African economies. In 2024, Africa’s total consumption of paper sacks and bags hit 43 million tonnes, a 2.6% increase from the previous year.

The market’s value also rose to US$83.4 billion in 2024, reflecting a 4% year-on-year increase.

Nigeria, Ethiopia, and DR Congo lead the way

Nigeria (5.8 million tonnes), Ethiopia (5.2 million tonnes), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (4.3 million tonnes) emerged as the top consumers, collectively accounting for 36% of total demand.

Ethiopia stood out as the largest market in value terms, reaching US$22.3 billion, driven by a strong CAGR of 8.6% over the past decade.

Tanzania, South Africa, and Uganda also demonstrated strong growth, with Madagascar posting the highest consumption growth rate at 7.9% annually.

In terms of per capita consumption, the Democratic Republic of the Congo led with 42 kg per person, followed closely by Ethiopia (41 kg) and Uganda (40 kg).

Africa’s paper bag production reached 43 million tonnes in 2024, matching consumption levels, valued at US$82.8 billion.

Although production peaked in 2022 at 44 million tonnes, it slightly declined afterwards. Angola recorded the fastest growth among leading producers, with a production CAGR of 8.5% between 2013 and 2024.

Imports and exports show modest growth

While imports of paper sacks and bags remained steady at 584,000 tonnes in 2024, their value increased modestly to US$1.2 billion.

Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco dominated the import value, accounting for 28% of total imports. Egypt also posted the highest import price at US$3,562 per tonne.

On the export front, Africa shipped 302,000 tonnes of paper bags in 2024, valued at US$550 million. South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt led the continent’s exports, with Zambia showing the most rapid growth, achieving a CAGR of 24.6% over the past decade.

Despite some market fluctuations, Africa’s shift toward sustainable packaging and rising industrial activity supports a positive long-term outlook for the paper sacks and bags sector.

As demand strengthens, especially in large economies like Nigeria and Ethiopia, the continent’s market is expected to become increasingly competitive and innovation driven.

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