how's going on the packaging material?

In the rapidly expanding e-commerce market, an increasing number of businesses are joining the wave of cross-border e-commerce. It is anticipated that by 2033, the global packaging automation solutions market will reach $155 billion, growing at an annual rate of 7.5%. With the swift development of e-commerce, the demand for packaging is continuously on the rise. According to market research provider Smithers, packaging demand is expected to grow steadily at 2.8%, reaching ¥10.5 trillion by 2024.

Packaging goes beyond simply wrapping and protecting products; it encompasses the processes of design, assessment, and production. Packaging serves various functions such as protection, preservation, transportation, information conveyance, and sales. For top manufacturers, packaging represents their brand value in the market. They view packaging as a crucial component of marketing strategy and an integral part of the business model. Hence, packaging is as important as the product itself. Consumer buying habits and packaging industry trends are key drivers propelling the rapid growth in packaging demand.

Sustainable development and environmentally friendly packaging are gaining increasing attention from consumers and major cross-border e-commerce platforms. In 2017, major e-commerce platforms pledged not only to provide protective packaging but also to focus on environmental protection and sustainability. However, by 2021, the situation had changed. With the global climate protest movements erupting in 2019, many young people, especially millennials and Gen Z, took to the streets demanding environmental protection. These consumers consider the environmental impact of products from design and production to transportation when making purchasing decisions.

This shift in consumer mindset has made environmental protection and recycling issues crucial. People are advocating for zero-waste packaging, and there is a growing interest in plant-based packaging materials, including those made from mushrooms, sugarcane, coconut, corn starch, and plant-based paper.

The diversification of packaging materials is also a key factor in the success of cross-border e-commerce. As different countries and regions have varying requirements for logistics and storage, businesses should choose packaging materials that best suit the demands of their target markets. For instance, some countries emphasize high moisture and waterproof performance, while others prioritize tear resistance and durability. Understanding the characteristics and needs of the target market and selecting appropriate packaging materials can enhance product transportation efficiency and safety.