Recycled Paper Bags Market

Recycled Paper Bags Market Size and Share Forecast Outlook 2025 to 2035

The global recycled paper bags market is projected to grow from USD 5 billion in 2025 to USD 7 billion by 2035, advancing at a CAGR of 3.4% during the forecast period. The governmental ban on single-use plastic helps to support demand and move to the use of environmentally responsible packaging. The increased implementation in foodservice and retail businesses continues to support the growth of markets as companies emphasize sustainable options.

Quick Stats of the Recycled Paper Bags Market

• Recycled Paper Bags Market Size (2025): USD 5 billion
• Projected Recycled Paper Bags Market Size (2035): USD 7 billion
• Forecast CAGR of Recycled Paper Bags Market (2025 to 2035): 3.4%
• Leading Paper Type Segment of Recycled Paper Bags Market: Kraft (Virgin)
• Leading Application Segment of the Recycled Paper Bags Market: Foodservice
• Key Growth Regions of Recycled Paper Bags Market: China, India, Germany, U.K.
• Prominent Players in the Recycled Paper Bags Market: Mondi Group, Novolex, Smurfit Kappa, International Paper, DS Smith, and others.

Metric	Value
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 5 billion
Industry Size (2035F)	USD 7 billion
CAGR (2025-2035)	3.4%

The global recycled paper bags market is expected to expand from approximately USD 5 billion in 2025 to about USD 7 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of around 3.4%. The increase in environmental consciousness and plastic bans by the government are the main factors driving this change.

Global policies governing recycled paper bags have a lot of influence on the adoption of recycled paper bags. The UNEP has reported that over 127 nations have put in place laws prohibiting or limiting the use of plastic bags. This has forced the retailers and manufacturers to consider recycled options, as paper bags become a feasible alternative in the packaging systems, as a way of being sustainable.

In India, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change introduced the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021, which prohibited a range of single-use plastic products. This has led to an increase in the use of paper bags by supermarkets, restaurants, and e-commerce companies, resulting in a new market in the use of paper bags that are recycled.

The European Union’s Single-Use Plastics Directive (2019/904) obliges member states to cut plastic bag consumption and promote eco-friendly packaging. According to the European Paper Recycling Council, the rate of paper recycling in Europe was 79.3% in 2022, which is one of the highest globally. Having this closed-loop system guarantees a steady supply of raw materials to achieve the recycled paper bags on a large scale.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an agency in the United States, in 2018, paper and paperboard containers and packaging generated more than 17.2 million tons of municipal solid waste. Since that time, recycling efforts have increased, with states such as California, New York, and Oregon issuing plastic bag bans, hastening the shift to paper-based carry solutions.

Key Recycled Paper Bags Market Dynamics

The Recycled Paper Bags Market is growing with more retailers and brands adopting increasing environmental standards and consumer demands for sustainable packaging. Firms are turning away to recyclable paper materials instead of single-use plastics to achieve their waste minimization goal and improve their sustainable brand.

The retail and foodservice markets, as well as the e-commerce markets, are leading the pack in adoption, as bans on plastic bags and corporate sustainability initiatives are driving change. Nevertheless, increased manufacturing expenses, lower wear life than plastics, and supply chain hurdles in sourcing recycled fiber remain to impede market expansion.

Rising Environmental Regulations Promoting Sustainable Packaging

The need to incorporate environmentally friendly packaging is also practiced across the globe due to increasing green rules. Governments are introducing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, which require producers to take care of the lifecycle of their packaging. As an example, the PPWR of the European Union dictates that every packaging, by 2030, is to be recyclable and meet the Design for Recyclability (DfR) requirements.

In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) in March 2025 revised its packaging regulations and permitted the use of recycled PET in food packaging, subject to strict safety standards. Also, the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules 2024 provided the use of recycled plastics and digital EPR certificates as mandatory to increase traceability.

Growing Consumer Preference for Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Environmental awareness and the urge to curb climate change have increased consumer preference for eco-friendly alternatives. PwC 2024 Voice of the Consumer Survey states that 85% of consumers have noticed the disruptive impact of climate change in their lives, which makes them focus on sustainable consumption. Consumers are prepared to pay on average 9.7% more for goods that have been produced or sourced sustainably, despite the inflationary pressure.

This is seen in a number of areas. In the example, 54% of U.S. consumers have intentionally bought products with sustainable packaging within the last six months, 90% said that they are more likely to buy a brand with environmentally-friendly packaging. Also, 67% of consumers hold that sustainability, as the default of companies, and 44% support eliminating unsustainable offerings in the market.

Retail and E-Commerce Adoption Driven by Plastic Bag Bans

Plastic bag bans are transforming the operations of retail and e-commerce to make businesses use sustainable practices. An example is that Kroger has removed single-use plastic bags in more than 700 stores and replaced them with paper or reusable options, and is trying new bag systems through efforts such as the Beyond the Bag Consortium.

Equally, Walmart is shifting to single-use plastic use in the various states with a goal of 100% recyclable, reusable, or compostable single-brand packaging by 2025.

E-commerce websites are evolving as well; firms are investing in the use of biodegradable or recyclable packaging materials to conform to the regulations and satisfy consumers. Such changes are more than environmental because they are also in line with consumer needs concerning sustainability, which affects their buying behavior and brand loyalty.

Higher Production Costs Compared to Plastic Bags

Paper bags are pricier to make because of variations in raw materials and production. Plastic bags are designed using polyethylene, which is the byproduct of petroleum and can be manufactured at a cheaper price in the range of between 2 to 5 cents per bag.

Paper bags, on the contrary, demand wood fibers, which entail the resource-intensive procedure of pulping and drying and, therefore, increase the cost of production. Moreover, more water and energy are used to manufacture paper bags, which adds to their costs.

The production cost of paper bags is usually transferred to the consumers. To compensate for these costs, retailers can impose fees on paper bags, and the prices vary between 5 to 25 cents per bag. Although paper bags are biodegradable and recyclable, the advantages that they pose in the environment should be contrasted with the increased amount of resources and costs involved in their production.

Limited Durability Impacting Large-Scale Usage

Poor durability of paper bags poses a great challenge to the viability of using the bags on a large scale. Although paper bags are biodegradable and recyclable, they tear easily, are easily damaged by water, and collapse easily due to weight, as opposed to plastic bags.

Research suggests that the reuse of paper bags should be multiple times to counter the increased environmental degradation during manufacture, but due to the weak nature of the paper, such reuse is not always feasible in practice. As an example, paper bags of good quality can withstand everyday handling and moderate rough usage, but if it is overloaded or handled with sharp tools, they can break.

This reduced longevity causes high expenses to retailers and consumers. Retailers can pay the cost of the increased production costs and reduced life span by either charging more costs to the consumer on the paper bag or motivating consumers to buy reusable alternatives. Also, the necessity of periodically replacing paper bags increases the total costs of both businesses and consumers.

Supply Chain Constraints in Recycled Fiber Sourcing

The limitations of a supply chain in sourcing recycled fiber to manufacture paper bags are becoming particularly obvious, affecting the supply and quality thereof. The major issue is the pollution of recovered paper, which requires a lot of cleaning and separation. These pollutants damage the fibers, making them weaker, and reusing them in production is no longer possible.

There are significant drawbacks in sourcing recycled fiber to make paper bags. Pollution of collected paper lowers the quality of fibers, and the process consumes a lot of sorting and cleaning; this process is costly and adds up financially.

Moreover, the scarcity of post-consumer waste in some areas presents bottlenecks; thus, manufacturers have to battle over raw materials. Sourcing is further complicated by transportation and logistics issues such as erratic collection times and seasonal changes in demand.

Analyzing the Recycled Paper Bags Market by Key Regions

North America sees strong adoption due to strict regulations on plastic usage and a retail sector increasingly favoring sustainable packaging. This trend is being backed by government measures and corporate pledges to cut plastic waste. Bans and corporate sustainability promises.

Asia Pacific has experienced a booming growth, especially in China and India, which is due to increasing environmental awareness and urbanization, which has increased demand. Growing e-commerce and retail industries are further raising demand for environmentally friendly packaging.

Europe has a stable market as a result of a well-developed recycling infrastructure and EU regulations that favor biodegradable and recyclable materials. In this case, consumers are becoming more and more refined in using paper bags as opposed to plastic counterparts.

Emerging markets, Latin America, and Middle East, and Africa are slowly but surely embracing the recycling of paper bags because of increasing regulatory requirements and environmental consciousness.

Country-Wise Outlook

Country	CAGR (2025-35)
India	5.9%
Germany	5.6%
China	4.4%
U.K.	3.8%

India’s Government Initiatives Driving Adoption of Recycled Paper Bags

India's commitment to reducing plastic waste has led to significant policy shifts favoring sustainable packaging. The nationwide ban on single-use plastics has compelled businesses to seek eco-friendly alternatives, with recycled paper bags emerging as a viable solution.

A notable example is the Khadi and Village Industries Commission's (KVIC) initiative. In 2019, the Kumarappa National Handmade Paper Institute (KNHPI) in Jaipur produced over 7,000 handmade paper bags made from 20% recycled single-use plastic waste. These bags were distributed at a high-profile event, showcasing the integration of recycled materials into traditional paper products.

Furthermore, government schemes like the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) and the Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Enterprises (PMFME) offer financial support to small-scale manufacturers. These programs provide subsidies and loans, enabling entrepreneurs to establish or expand paper bag production units, thereby fostering local employment and promoting sustainable practices.

Collectively, these initiatives illustrate India's proactive approach in promoting recycled paper bags, aligning environmental goals with economic development.

• Plastic bans are pushing businesses to adopt recycled paper bags.
• KVIC produces paper bags using recycled plastic, promoting sustainability.
• Government schemes support small manufacturers, boosting employment and eco-friendly production.

Germany’s Regulatory Framework and Consumer Awareness Boosting Recycled Paper Bags

Germany's Packaging Act (VerpackG), effective since 2019, mandates that companies register packaging in the LUCID portal and participate in a dual recycling system. This legislation aims to reduce packaging waste and promote recycling, with penalties up to €200,000 for non-compliance.

Consumer awareness in Germany is also increasing, with 63% of consumers preferring paper bags for their compostability and recyclability. This preference drives demand for sustainable packaging options, including recycled paper bags.

The combination of stringent regulations and growing consumer demand is fostering a market for recycled paper bags in Germany. Companies are adopting these products to comply with regulations and meet consumer expectations for sustainability.

• VerpackG mandates LUCID registration, promoting compliance and recycling of packaging materials.
• Rising consumer preference for recyclable paper bags drives sustainable market adoption.
• The foodservice industry must offer reusable alternatives, reinforcing recycled paper bag usage.

China’s Urbanization and Environmental Policies Fueling Demand for Recycled Paper Bags

Rapid urbanization in China has increased retail and e-commerce activity, raising demand for convenient and sustainable packaging solutions. Recycled paper bags are gaining traction as businesses seek alternatives to conventional plastics in urban centers.

Environmental policies, such as the 2008 ban on ultra-thin plastic bags and the 2017 waste import restrictions, are pushing companies to adopt eco-friendly packaging. Compliance with these regulations ensures reduced plastic waste and aligns with government sustainability targets.

Consumer awareness is also rising, with shoppers increasingly preferring recyclable and compostable packaging. This shift encourages retailers to provide recycled paper bags, reinforcing green practices across foodservice and retail sectors.

China's urbanization and environmental policies are driving the demand for recycled paper bags. Manufacturers are enhancing bag durability, design, and production capacity to meet this demand. Government incentives, such as VAT deductions and tax preferences for recycling businesses, further encourage investments in sustainable packaging.

• Urbanization drives demand, encouraging manufacturers to enhance bag durability and design.
• Environmental policies, including plastic bans, push businesses toward sustainable packaging adoption.
• Government incentives, like VAT deductions for recycling businesses, promote production investments.

U.K.’s Government-Led Transformation in Recycled Paper Bag Adoption

The commitment of the U.K. government to reduce its plastic waste has been significant in the adoption of recycled paper bags. Sales of single-use plastic bags in supermarkets have decreased by 95% due to programs like the 5p carrier bag charge implemented in 2015.

Consumers are shifting to recycled paper bags, sustainable packaging solutions due to environmental awareness and pressure on the environment. It can be observed that this trend is present in many areas, such as retail and food services.

There are a number of policies introduced in the U.K. to help reduce plastic consumption, such as the prohibition of plastic single-use products, including knives and dishes. As well, the Plastic Packaging Tax promotes the use of recycled material since plastic packaging less than 30% recycled is subject to taxes.

It offers businesses the opportunity to become more sustainable in their packaging by using recycled paper bags, which comply with the governmental policies and the demand of consumers for an eco-friendly product.

• The charge on 5p carrier bags has greatly lowered the use of plastic bags, advocating the use of other alternatives such as recycled paper bags.
• The use of sustainable materials is promoted through regulatory policies, such as the prohibition of single-use plastics and the Plastic Packaging Tax.
• There is an increase in consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions of packaging and it creates opportunities for businesses.

Category-wise Analysis

Kraft (Virgin) Paper Dominates the Recycled Paper Bags Market

Kraft (Virgin) paper has the largest market share of 33.36%, which has been mainly attributed to its high strength, tear resistance, and ability to resist tearing. These attributes have made it perfect for transporting heavier things, especially in applications in retail and foodservice.

The natural brown color of the material also allows the material to meet the sustainability and environmental friendliness perceptions of consumers, which promotes brand image among eco-friendly businesses.

Kraft (Virgin) paper is common and can be used in printing and branding, thus businesses can use the bags with logos and designs. The regulative pressure to decrease plastic consumption has also applied more pressure on strong and recyclable alternatives, such as Kraft paper. Manufacturers are also enhancing production processes and trying to streamline manufacturing processes at the lowest cost and to achieve high-quality standards.

• High strength and durability support heavy-load applications.
• Natural appearance enhances eco-friendly branding.
• Regulatory support boosts demand in retail and foodservice.

Foodservice Segment Leading the Recycled Paper Bags Market

Consumers are increasingly becoming conscious about the sustainability of the environment, and this is compelling foodservice providers to use recyclable options instead of disposable single-use plastic bags. Government regulations on plastic reduction also intensify this change and promote the use of biodegradable and recycled paper materials by the establishment.

Growth is also achieved through operational benefits, whereby the recycled paper bags can be tailor-made in branding and promotions to increase customer interest. Besides that, the supply chain enhancements have facilitated the availability of paper bags that are cheaper to foodservice operators.

High pedestrian areas and delivery operations are increasingly in demand, particularly the eco-conscious consumers interested in sustainable packaging options.

• Government policies on plastic reduction support adoption.
• Customization and branding opportunities enhance usage.
• Urban and high-traffic areas drive higher demand.

Competitive Analysis

Major players in the recycled paper bags market include Mondi Group, Novolex, Smurfit Kappa, International Paper, and DS Smith, and are becoming highly competitive. The companies are strategic in their partnerships, acquisitions, and ongoing innovation of their products in terms of durability, sustainability, and customization.

Increased use of green packaging, consumer legislation on the use of single-use plastics, and increased consumption of sustainable items have increased competition in this market.

A competitive advantage is achieved through the provision of high-strength, tailor-made, and green-certified paper bags. The competition between vendors is based on the quality of materials, bag design, and the possibility of incorporating recycled materials without losing the durability level. Multi-layered coated and kraft paper bags are taking the multi-layered kraft paper bags as their favorite choice for retail/foodservice usage.

Important differentiators are sustainability and supply chain management. Players capable of delivering a regular stream of recycled fibers and having a robust logistics network are able to serve the needs of large-scale industrial and retail demand better.

Additionally, innovations in water-resistant coatings, compostable inks, and lightweight designs provide a competitive advantage by enhancing product performance while aligning with environmental goals.

Cloud-based digital management tools and production automation are also shaping competition. Companies that leverage technology to optimize production, track material sourcing, and reduce waste can operate more efficiently, improving margins while responding to rising global demand for recycled paper packaging solutions.

Key Players in the Market

• Mondi Group
• Novolex
• Smurfit Kappa
• International Paper
• DS Smith
• Stora Enso
• Oji Holdings Corporation
• Atlantic Packaging
• Langston Companies
• Ronpak

Recent Developments

• In July 2025, EP Group initiated the campaign, Bag as Brand that targeted fashion retailers. The project advertises their RePapaPac paper bag as a reusable and high-performance alternative to the regular one-use carriers. Intended to last long and be identified with the brand, the bag itself is completely recyclable and fits the sustainability objectives.
• In June 2025, Mondi introduced the re/cycle PaperPlus Bag Advanced, a sustainable, high-barrier paper bag for humidity-sensitive items, cutting plastic usage by up to 60 per cent, which can fit in existing production lines, and won a Bronze award at the EUROSAC Grand Prix.
• In April 2025, Mondi collaborated with Evonik to launch a ready-made and recyclable paper bag to store chemical powders. This partnership is designed to decrease the amount of plastic and make the packaging solutions more sustainable in the chemical sector.

Segmentation of the Recycled Paper Bags Market

• By Paper Type :

  • Kraft (Virgin)
  • Coated Paper
  • Bleached Paper
  • Recycled Kraft
  • Others

• By Application :

  • Foodservice
  • Retail
  • Industrial
  • Others

• By Region :

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • East Asia
  • South Asia & Pacific
  • Middle East & Africa