Market Trends of Middle East And Africa Flexible Packaging Industry
Food Industry to be the Largest End User
- The Middle East packaged food market is experiencing growth due to advancements in food processing techniques and changing consumer lifestyles. These factors are expected to increase product demand, driving the growth of flexible packaging during the forecast period.
- Further, the rising Middle Eastern population and a growing appetite for meat, seafood, and poultry fuel the demand for flexible plastic packaging. Innovations in packaging materials and designs also contribute to this trend, as manufacturers seek to meet consumer preferences for convenience and extended shelf life.
- In addition, the growth of e-commerce in Middle Eastern countries, such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, is driving demand for convenience food. This trend is reshaping the flexible packaging landscape, including films, wraps, pouches, and bags, which help maintain food freshness and warmth for extended periods.
- The food industry in the GCC region, a major chunk of Middle East and Africa, recovered after the pandemic. The growing population, coupled with the increasing number of working professionals and many expatriates, is a major driver for the region’s food industry. Growing awareness of healthy eating habits of consumers in the region seeking high nutritional value has led to rising demand for fresh and organic food items. The use of plastic bags and pouches for food packaging, as pouches are low in weight and strength, drives the demand for flexible plastic packaging.
- According to a report by Alpen Capital, food consumption in GCC countries is estimated to grow to 56.2 million metric tons in 2027, driven by the increase in per capita income and growing population. Saudi Arabia is estimated to be the largest country in the region in terms of food consumption, followed by the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.
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Saudi Arabia Holds Major Market Share
- Saudi Arabia's strategic location at the intersection of three continents positions it as a critical access point to markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The country's well-developed infrastructure, efficient transportation networks, and advanced logistics facilities provide significant advantages for global trade and investment opportunities.
- Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as an attractive destination for businesses seeking new opportunities and growth. The Kingdom's ambitious economic reforms, strategic initiatives, and evolving business landscape transform it into a potential global business center. This transformation has garnered increasing attention from packaging businesses worldwide, reflecting Saudi Arabia's growing importance in the international market.
- With the demand for flexible packaging solutions rising in sectors like food, retail, consumer goods, and pharmaceuticals, businesses are increasingly eyeing Saudi Arabia. The country's strategic positioning will make it a key player in shaping regional and international trade, investment, and innovation.
- The Ready-to-Eat Meals and Frozen Food segment offers prepared food that requires minimal or no preparation before consumption. This segment is gaining popularity in Middle Eastern countries, particularly in Saudi Arabia, due to the fast-paced urban lifestyle and diverse cultural influences.
- The Saudi Arabian market for processed meat, seafood, and meat alternatives is experiencing growth. In 2023, the market volume was approximately 1,499.10 metric tons. Projections indicate an increase to about 1,839.50 metric tons by 2027, reflecting the country's changing and growing consumer preferences for processed meat.
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