1. Introduction
The global demand for sustainable and recyclable materials has reached unprecedented levels in 2025, placing the paper packaging industry at the forefront of packaging innovation. As governments implement stricter environmental regulations and brands aim to reduce plastic usage, paper-based alternatives are rapidly gaining market share across sectors like e-commerce, food and beverage, and personal care.
This article provides an up-to-date ranking of the top 10 largest paper packaging companies in the world in 2025, based on publicly reported revenue, global production scale, and industry influence. These companies are not only leaders in output, but also play a key role in driving forward sustainable packaging practices. Whether you’re a buyer, distributor, or sustainability strategist, understanding who leads the market offers valuable insight into current supply chains and future developments.
2. Global Paper Packaging Market Overview
The paper packaging industry continues to expand steadily in 2025, fueled by a shift toward eco-friendly materials and rising global consumption. According to industry research, the global paper packaging market is projected to exceed USD 420 billion by the end of 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 4% from 2020 to 2025.
Growth is particularly strong in corrugated boxes, folding cartons, and paper-based flexible packaging, driven by the surge in e-commerce logistics and changing consumer preferences.
Key market dynamics include:
- Asia-Pacific remains the largest production and consumption region, led by China, Japan, and India.
- Europe continues to prioritize regulation-driven sustainability, especially with initiatives like the EU Green Deal.
- North America leads in automation and innovation, particularly in smart packaging and recyclable materials.
These factors collectively support the rising influence of the companies featured in this ranking.
3. Ranking Methodology
To maintain transparency and accuracy, the rankings in this article are based on multiple verifiable data sources, including:
- 2024–2025 annual revenue (USD)
- Total paper packaging output volume (tonnage)
- Global manufacturing footprint and supply capabilities
- Publicly available ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reports
- Industry reports from Packaging Gateway, Statista, and IBISWorld
This list focuses specifically on companies with a significant portion of their operations dedicated to paper packaging — including containerboard, corrugated boxes, cartons, and paper bags. Companies involved heavily in plastics or other materials are excluded unless paper packaging is a dominant business segment.
Where exact 2025 revenue data is unavailable, the most recent fiscal year data (2024) is used along with reasonable projections based on growth trends and corporate disclosures.
4. 2025 Ranking: Top 10 Largest Paper Packaging Companies Worldwide
Here are the leading global players in paper‑packaging by scale, footprint and relevance.
4.1 International Paper (USA)
- Website: internationalpaper.com
- In FY 2024, International Paper reported net sales of US$18.6 billion. 国际纸业+3PR Newswire+3国际纸业+3
- Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the company is a major global producer of containerboard, corrugated packaging and other fibre‑based packaging solutions.
- Explanation: Its large scale, broad geographic footprint across North America, Latin America, Europe and North Africa, and its strong position in containerboard and corrugated packaging place it clearly among the top.
- Recent note: Though the revenue dipped slightly from 2023 to 2024 (US$18.9 billion in 2023) inkworldmagazine.com+1, the company remains one of the largest pure‑paper‑packaging oriented firms.
4.2 Smurfit Westrock (Ireland/USA)
- Website: smurfitwestrock.com
- This is the combined entity of Smurfit Kappa Group and WestRock (merged 2024/2025). For full‑year 2024 the combined net sales are reported as approx US$21.1 billion. Recycling Today+3investors.smurfitwestrock.com+3investors.smurfitwestrock.com+3
- The merger creates one of the largest paper packaging companies in the world.
- Explanation: With the combination of WestRock’s strong US corrugated packaging footprint and Smurfit Kappa’s European/Latin America presence, the scale and scope increase significantly.
- Note: The financials reflect a newly combined entity and integration phase; the full impact for 2025 is yet to be fully published.
4.3 Oji Holdings (Japan)
- Website: ojiholdings.co.jp
- According to a company overview, Oji’s consolidated revenue for FY 2024 was approximately ¥1,849 billion (~US$12 billion) in total. pdf.irpocket.com+1
- The company is strong in Asia‑Pacific, producing a wide range of paper and packaging materials including containerboard, corrugated, and folding carton.
- Explanation: Its strong regional dominance in Asia, especially Japan and across Asia‑Pacific, plus its focus on paper‑packaging materials, make it a top contender globally.
4.4 Mondi Group (UK/South Africa)
- Website: mondigroup.com
- While full 2024 revenue figures dedicated purely to paper packaging weren’t located in my search, Mondi is repeatedly cited among the top global paper & packaging firms. Future Market Insights
- Explanation: Mondi has a diversified packaging portfolio (paper, flexible packaging) and a strong European/Eurasian footprint; within pure paper packaging it ranks high.
4.5 DS Smith Plc (UK)
- Website: dssmith.com
- DS Smith focuses largely on corrugated packaging and is strong in Europe and North America. It is among the “next five” in the global rankings. Future Market Insights
- Explanation: Its specialization in fibre‑based packaging (especially corrugated) and focus on the circular economy reinforce its ranking among top 10.
4.6 Stora Enso Oyj (Finland)
- Website: storaenso.com
- Stora Enso is a major European firm emphasizing renewable and bio‑based packaging. While exact 2024 revenue dedicated to packaging is not specified here, it is cited among leading firms. Future Market Insights
- Explanation: Its strategic shift toward renewable packaging and large production capacity across Europe support its placement.
4.7 Lee & Man Paper Manufacturing Ltd (China)
- Website: leexman.com
- Lee & Man is a large China‑based recycled paper packaging and containerboard group. While detailed public revenue figures were limited in my search, the company is commonly referenced among large global paper packaging players.
- Explanation: Given China’s dominant share in paper‑based packaging production, a major Chinese player such as this naturally ranks into the top tier.
4.8 Nine Dragons Paper (HD) Ltd (China)
- Website: ndpaper.com
- Nine Dragons is one of the world’s largest containerboard producers and is highly active in recycled fibre packaging. Mordor Intelligence
- Explanation: The large installed capacity, especially in Asia, and high allocation of revenue to packaging grades place it among the largest.
4.9 Packaging Corporation of America (USA)
- Website: packagingcorp.com
- Packaging Corp. is a major North American containerboard and corrugated packaging producer. While exact global ranking data wasn’t pulled here, it is sufficiently large to make the top 10 list.
- Explanation: Its North American dominance and pure packaging‑paper focus justify its inclusion.
4.10 Smurfit Kappa Group (Ireland) (stand‑alone prior to merger)
- Website: smurfitkappa.com
- Prior to merger, Smurfit Kappa’s 2023 revenue was ~€11.3 billion. smurfitkappa.com
- Explanation: As part of the combined Smurfit Westrock entity, Smurfit Kappa’s own scale already ranked it among the top; historically it qualifies as a major player in paper‑based packaging globally.
Summary Table
| Rank | Company | Approx. Scale / Note | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | International Paper | US$ 18.6 bn (FY 2024) | internationalpaper.com |
| 2 | Smurfit Westrock | Combined ~US$ 21+ bn (2024) | smurfitwestrock.com |
| 3 | Oji Holdings | ~US$ 12 bn (FY 2024) | ojiholdings.co.jp |
| 4 | Mondi Group | Large Europe/Global player | mondigroup.com |
| 5 | DS Smith Plc | Strong corrugated specialist | dssmith.com |
| 6 | Stora Enso Oyj | Renewable‑packaging emphasis | storaenso.com |
| 7 | Lee & Man Paper | Major Chinese packaging player | leexman.com |
| 8 | Nine Dragons Paper (HD) | Large containerboard + recycled packaging | ndpaper.com |
| 9 | Packaging Corporation of America | North America containerboard & corrugated | packagingcorp.com |
| 10 | Smurfit Kappa Group | Pre‑merger entity, strong global footprint | smurfitkappa.com |
Notes for Readers
- The ranking is based on latest available fiscal year figures and may evolve as more 2025 data become public.
- Some companies combine paper packaging with other materials; for this list we emphasize firms where paper‑based packaging is a major focus.
- Currency conversions, regional segments and accounting differences may affect comparability—thus figures should be interpreted as approximate.
5. Honorable Mentions
While the top 10 companies lead the global market, several emerging or regionally dominant players are worth watching due to their innovation, sustainable practices, or rapid expansion. These honorable mentions are poised to climb the global rankings in the coming years:
Pratt Industries (USA / Australia)
- A major player in recycled corrugated packaging with a strong presence in the U.S. and expanding operations in Australia. Known for its closed-loop recycling system and commitment to 100% recycled paper packaging.
- Website: prattindustries.com
Klabin S.A. (Brazil)
- Brazil’s largest paper producer and exporter, with integrated operations across pulp, paper, and paper packaging.
- Focused heavily on renewable energy and sustainable forestry practices.
- Website: klabin.com.br
Rengo Co., Ltd. (Japan)
- One of Japan’s leading packaging companies, with operations spanning corrugated packaging and folding cartons.
- Known for its packaging innovation and steady expansion in Southeast Asia.
- Website: rengo.co.jp
These companies may not yet match the global scale of the top 10 but are gaining influence in specific regions and market segments.
6. Industry Trends and Analysis (2025)
The global paper packaging industry in 2025 is shaped by a complex mix of regulatory, technological, and consumer-driven trends. Some key themes include:
Sustainability as a Strategic Imperative
Governments and major brands continue to phase out single-use plastics, placing paper-based packaging in high demand. Companies that offer recyclable, compostable, or FSC-certified solutions have a competitive edge. Circular economy models, such as fiber recovery and closed-loop recycling, are becoming industry standards.
Regional Shifts and Production Hubs
- Asia-Pacific is still the fastest-growing market due to its manufacturing base and rising middle class.
- Europe leads in eco-regulations and innovation in fiber-based packaging alternatives.
- North America is investing heavily in automation, AI in supply chain logistics, and energy-efficient paper mills.
E-commerce and Food Packaging Growth
The e-commerce boom continues to drive demand for protective paper packaging, while the food industry increasingly seeks biodegradable, grease-resistant alternatives to plastic.
Smart Packaging and Digital Integration
Companies are exploring RFID, QR codes, and moisture indicators embedded in packaging, creating opportunities for value-added features in otherwise traditional materials.
Overall, innovation and environmental responsibility are no longer optional — they are prerequisites for survival and growth in the 2025 packaging landscape.
7. Conclusion
In 2025, the global paper packaging industry continues to evolve — and scale matters more than ever. The top 10 companies highlighted in this report are not only revenue leaders but also critical drivers of innovation, environmental reform, and supply chain resilience.
While legacy giants like International Paper and Smurfit Westrock dominate through global reach and vertical integration, emerging players in Asia and Latin America are challenging the landscape with cost-effective and sustainable alternatives.
As demand for plastic-free packaging increases, businesses that align with eco-conscious practices and invest in innovation will be best positioned for long-term success. Whether you’re sourcing packaging materials or seeking a long-term supplier, understanding the market leaders helps guide strategic decisions.
8. For New and Growing Brands
If your brand is just getting started—or you’re scaling into new markets—working with a mid-sized packaging manufacturer can offer the flexibility that larger suppliers may not.
These suppliers often support:
- Lower minimum order quantities (MOQs)
- Custom sizing and printing
- Faster turnaround times
They’re ideal for businesses launching new product lines or testing seasonal packaging without overcommitting to large production runs.
Popular options include:
- Custom printed boxes and folding cartons
- Kraft paper bags with branding
- Premium rigid boxes for retail display
As an experienced paper packaging supplier, we’ve helped many small and medium-sized brands turn their packaging ideas into reality. If you’re exploring options, contact us to discuss your needs or request a quote.