Jordan’s packaging and paper sector hits US$1.55B in local sales in 2025, strengthening domestic industrial value chains

JORDAN – Jordan’s packaging, paper and cardboard industries recorded robust performance in 2025, achieving JD1 billion (US$1.55 billion) in domestic sales and maintaining a strong foothold in the local market, according to a new report issued by the Jordan Chamber of Industry (JCI).

The sector sold 88% of its output locally, meeting 77% of the Kingdom’s total consumption and reinforcing its role as a major contributor to national self-sufficiency.

The JCI report highlights the industry’s dual function as both a supplier of finished packaging goods and a key source of intermediate inputs for a wide range of manufacturing segments.

These include food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, cosmetics, and fast-moving consumer goods, all sectors that rely heavily on consistent supply of cardboard, paper pulp, printing services, and packaging components.

Exports performed strongly as well, increasing 6% in the first 10 months of 2025 to reach nearly JD119 million (US$167.84m), up from JD112 million (US$157.97m) in the same period of 2024.

Jordan’s paper and packaging products currently reach 58 international markets, led by Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, India, Iraq, and the United States.

The sector comprises 812 establishments, with total capital investment of JD269 million (US$379.41m), and employs around 11,000 workers, 89% of whom are Jordanian.

Annual production reached JD1.14 billion (US$1.61bn), representing 7% of total manufacturing output, underscoring the industry’s strategic role as a supplier of essential inputs and its importance to domestic industrial value chains.

The study identifies untapped export opportunities valued at approximately US$81 million, particularly in paperboard products, cardboard boxes and containers, and printed books and brochures, segments where Jordanian manufacturers possess competitive production capabilities but face market access and scale constraints.

JCI noted that the sector supplies JD160 million (US$225.67m) in production inputs to other industrial branches, with packaging materials accounting for 14% of industrial production requirements.

Stationery and printed materials contribute 2%, while overall the sector represents 16% of total industrial production costs.

Regional packaging markets continue to evolve rapidly, driven by rising demand for e-commerce packaging, sustainability requirements, and new investments in recycling.

In neighbouring Saudi Arabia, for example, ongoing expansion in corrugated and folding carton capacity under Vision 2030 is reshaping regional supply chains.

Meanwhile, Egypt’s recent push to localize paper production has intensified competition in North Africa, prompting manufacturers to upgrade equipment and pursue export opportunities in high-value segments such as hygiene paper and printed packaging.

With steady growth, expanding export potential, and strong domestic integration, Jordan’s packaging and paper sector remains well-positioned to support national manufacturing competitiveness and regional market connectivity.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE