Japan FIBC Industry Outlook from 2023 to 2033

Sales of FIBC in Japan are estimated to be valued at USD 405 million in 2023 and are anticipated to reach USD 655.1 million by 2033. Over the forecast period, FIBC demand in Japan is anticipated to increase at a CAGR of 4.9%. The revenue generated by FIBC in 2022 was USD 387.9 million and will likely exhibit a y-o-y growth of 4.4% in 2023.

Top Segments and their Statistics

  • Food products and agriculture segment by end-use is expected to account for about 38% of value share by 2033.
  • The four-side panel segment by design type is anticipated to account for around 1/4th of the share by 2033, thriving at a CAGR of 4.7% over the forecast period.
  • Type A FIBC bag segment will likely hold a value share of 40.6% in 2023 and 39.1% by 2033.
  • FIBCs with a capacity of 250 to 700 kgs are set to total USD 282.8 million by 2033.
Attributes Key Insights
Base Value (2022) USD 387.9 million
Estimated Japan FIBC Business Revenue (2023) USD 405.0 million
Projected Japan FIBC Business Revenue (2033) USD 655.1 million
Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.9%

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Key Report Highlights

Revenue in Japan to Expand Over 1.6X through 2033

As per the latest report, FIBC revenue in Japan is predicted to expand over 1.6X through 2033, amid a 2.9% increase in estimated CAGR compared to the historical one. This is attributable to the robust growth of sectors, including food, agriculture, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, and the rising demand for bulk flexible packaging solutions.

Other Factors Driving FIBC Demand in Japan Include

  • Growing usage of FIBCs in the logistic sector
  • Rise in construction activities
  • High adoption of FIBCs in industrial bulk material handling
  • Cost-effectiveness and environmentally friendly nature of FIBCs
  • Increase in import and export activities
  • Booming e-commerce sector
  • Innovations in FIBC design
  • Rising demand for food-grade FIBC bulk bags in Osaka and other cities
  • Increasing sales of FIBCs in the chemical and fertilizer businesses

Key Trends in Japan FIBC Business Include

  • Rising inclination toward sustainable packaging solutions
  • Surging demand for lightweight and durable FIBCs
  • Growing popularity of custom-made FIBCs
  • Increasing awareness about the benefits of flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBC) in Tokyo and other cities across Japan

Factors that Can Negatively Impact FIBC Sales in Japan

Sales of Type D FIBC Bags Will Likely Outpace Other Bag Types

As per the latest report, the type A FIBC bags segment will retain its dominance in Japan during the forecast period. It is expected to hold a value share of 39.1% by 2033. This is due to the increasing usage of these bags for packaging and transporting non-hazardous materials.

Emerging trends, however, predict sales of type D FIBC bags to outpace other bag types during the assessment period.

The target segment is set to thrive at a CAGR of 5.9% through 2033. This is attributable to the rising adoption of type D FIBC bags for storing and transporting flammable powders, hazardous materials, and combustible specks of dust.

Type D FIBC bags are gaining immense traction across several sectors. This is because they are vital in preventing accidents and protecting workers.

These antistatic or static dissipative bags are designed to prevent the accumulation and discharge of static electricity, thereby encouraging their usage for transforming flammable and other dangerous substances.

Type D FIBC bags do not need to be grounded to be effective. This makes them a much safer alternative to type C FIBC bags that are conductive and must be grounded to prevent static discharge.

Japan FIBC Business Overview

Flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) are considered a versatile and economical way to store and transport dry, flowable materials. They are set to be increasingly used in a wide range of sectors and applications due to their several advantages, contributing to sales growth.

FIBCs are relatively lightweight and inexpensive compared to other types of bulk containers. This is driving their demand in diverse verticals.

They can save space and time owing to their stackable nature, which is estimated to aid demand. These packaging solutions can also be customized to meet the specific needs of end users, thereby augmenting demand.

The rising usage of FIBCs in the food and pharmaceutical sectors is further expected to boost sales across Japan. These bulk packaging solutions are set to be widely used in these sectors to transport and store a variety of products, including rice, flour, grains, and pharmaceuticals. To benefit from this, companies are expected to develop novel FIBCs for food and pharmaceutical businesses.

The growing need to reduce the overall weight of bulk packaging is anticipated to fuel the demand for flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs). This is because these packaging solutions can significantly reduce the weight of bulk packaging, leading to lower transportation costs. They are becoming ideal alternatives to drums, sacks, and others.

Ismail Sutaria
Ismail Sutaria

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2018 to 2022 Japan FIBC Industry Outlook Vs. 2023 to 2033 Demand Forecast

FIBC sales in Japan recorded a CAGR of 2.0% during the historical period. Total revenue in the country reached around USD 387.9 million in 2022. From 2023 to 2033, demand for FIBCs in Japan is set to thrive at a steady CAGR of 4.9%.

Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) 2.0%
Forecast CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.9%

The FIBC business in Japan is anticipated to witness steady growth over the forecast period. This is due to factors such as the rising demand for flexible packaging solutions, robust growth of end-use industries, and innovation in FIBCs.

Different kinds of specialized FIBCs are gaining traction across end-use industries, contributing to sales growth in Japan. These packaging solutions are widely used to store and package distinct goods such as food products, agro products, chemicals, polymers, and building materials.

The rapid growth of the chemical business in Japan is expected to bolster sales of FIBCs during the assessment period. This is because these containers are increasingly employed for storing and supplying a wide range of basic ingredients or chemicals.

In Japan, the total value of shipments in the chemical business accounted for USD 426.1 billion in 2020. This figure will likely increase amid the expansion of the chemical sector in Japan and will create growth prospects for manufacturers of FIBC.

Manufacturers in Japan are investing in sustainable packaging solutions, which has generated the need for developing sustainable FIBC. Implementation of rules and initiatives taken by the government of Japan for promoting sustainable packaging will likely create future growth parameters in the FIBC business. These include the reduction of plastic waste by 25% by 2030.

Understanding Crucial Drivers Impacting Japan FIBC Sales

Automation in Bulk Bag Production and Handling to Boost Growth

Flexible intermediate bulk containers are significantly used packaging formats for storing and transporting dry or solid materials. Their usage and demand are rising significantly, thereby prompting companies to employ automation as manual filling and removal processes are very time-consuming and labor-intensive.

In Japan, where there is a shortage of labor and a high proportion of elderly citizens, automation in manufacturing and production lines is very crucial. Automated FIBC packaging lines would aid in better handling and streamlining the process.

Automated processes such as automatic unstacking and delivery of pallets to bulk bag filling stations, automation slip sheet dispensers, and automated bag removal by conveyers can influence the FIBC business growth, especially in Japan.

End users of FIBC can adopt this mechanization in the packaging sector to stay ahead and reorganize the workflow, contributing to revenue growth.

Rising Penetration of FIBC Bags in Packaging Business

Rapid economic growth and industrialization have resulted in an increasing need for solutions to transport goods that are cost-effective and efficient in protecting materials. Textile is being preferred by companies, including bulk bags, polyolefin woven sacks, jute bags, and others.

Several companies are shifting toward using FIBC as it offers better protection of material being transported and allows the ease of procurement in empty FIBCs. The flexibility of bulk bags allows transportation without pallets that too at a lower cost when compared to rigid IBCs, which are set to drive demand.

Packaged bulk bags have a low package-to-product weight ratio, while emptied bags are compact and lightweight, reducing transportation costs and space as they can be easily stacked.

The availability of several FIBCs, including loop design, top and bottom design, bag style options, and fabric options, is impacting the growth of the FIBC business in Japan.

Semi-annual Update

The table presents the expected CAGR for the Japan FIBC business over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2022 to 2033. In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2022 to 2032, the business is expected to surge at a CAGR of 4.7%, followed by a slightly lower growth rate of 4.3% in the second half (H2) of the same decade.

Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2023 to H2 2033, the CAGR is projected to increase slightly to 4.4% in the first half and remain average at 3.9% in the second half. These values offer insights into the anticipated growth trends for the Japan FIBC business, aiding stakeholders and investors in making informed decisions regarding investments & strategies.

Particular Value CAGR
H1 (2022 to 2032) 4.7%
H2 (2022 to 2032) 4.3%
H1 (2023 to 2033) 4.4%
H2 (2023 to 2033) 3.9%

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Category-wise Insights

Based on capacity, the 250 to 750 kg segment is expected to dominate Japan during the forecast period. It is projected to thrive at a 4.8% CAGR through 2033. The type A FIBC bag segment is set to hold a prominent value share throughout the projection period. It will likely expand at a 4.6% CAGR between 2023 and 2033.

Usage in Japan Remains High for 250 to 750 Kgs FIBCs

Capacity Value CAGR
Up to 250 Kgs 3.9%
250 to 750 Kg 4.8%
Above 750 Kgs 6.1%

FIBCs having a capacity of 250 to 750 kgs are prominently preferred by the end-use industries due to ease of handling. The use of these bags aligns with global packaging standards and allows efficient transportation and storage of bulk goods. They can hold a significant amount of material, reducing the need for additional storage space.

The 250 to 750 kg segment is poised to maintain its leading share, holding about 43.2% by 2033. It will likely exhibit a CAGR of 4.8% through 2033. This is attributed to the rising usage of these FIBCs for storing and transporting a wide range of materials, including food, chemicals, sand, cement, fertilizers, grains, and rice.

Bag Type Value CAGR
Type A 4.6%
Type B 4.5%
Type C 5.5%
Type D 5.9%

Type A FIBC Bags Remain Highly-sought After Type in Japan

As per the latest Japan FIBC industry analysis, type A FIBC bags will likely remain a popular bag type across Japan, thriving at 4.6% CAGR. This is due to the rising usage of these bags to package and transport non-hazardous materials such as sand and cement on account of their inexpensive nature.

Type A FIBC bags are set to be widely favored in Japan as they comply with industrial standards, ensuring they meet safety requirements for transportation and storage. Companies are projected to make these bags mainly from plain woven polypropylene and other non-conductive fabrics.

Type A FIBC bags are designed for easy handling, featuring lifting loops or handles facilitating their movement. Their ease of use contributes to improved productivity and operational efficiency.

Type A bag is envisioned to hold a leading revenue share of 40.6% in 2023. This is attributed to their reusability. They are expected to help in reducing the amount of waste generated from packaging materials. They are estimated to be one of the most affordable solutions for packaging, which brings significant cost savings.

Competitive Landscape

FIBC manufacturing companies in Japan are focusing on offering high-quality products that meet industry standards. They are investing heavily in research and development activities for developing or improving the material, design, and construction of FIBCs.

Key players are also differentiating themselves by offering customized solutions for the unique needs of sectors and applications by working with their customers and understanding their requirements.

Recent Activities of FIBC Manufacturers

  • In September 2023, LC Packaging International BV announced that they joined Starlinger, the PET recycling team, and Velebit to close the loop with big bags made from recycled bags.
  • In April 2023, Grief Inc. announced the acquisition of Centurion Container LLC by increasing its ownership up to 80%, expanding its presence in North America.
  • In February 2023, Rengo Co. Ltd. announced the acquisition of Nitto Danboru Co., Ltd. to enhance future business operations.

Scope of the Report

Attribute Details
Estimated Value (2023) USD 405.0 million
Projected Value (2033) USD 655.1 million
Estimated Growth Rate (2023 to 2033) 4.9% CAGR
Historical Data 2018 to 2022
Forecast Period 2023 to 2033
Quantitative Units Revenue in USD million
Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis
Segments Covered Capacity, Bag Type, Design, End-use, Sub-region
Key Sub-regions Covered Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kansai, Chugoku, Shikoku, Kyushu & Okinawa
Key Companies Profiled Grief, Inc.; Berry Global Inc.; Intertape Polymer Group; LC Packaging International BV; Mitsubishi Corp.; Nihon Matai Co. Ltd. (Rengo Group); Kohsei Co., Ltd.; SHIBATA INDUSTRIAL CO. LTD.; Media International Co. Ltd.; Yamanaka Shokai Co. Ltd.; Hagihara Industries Inc.; SHIOYA Co. Ltd.; SMC CO. LTD.; Taiyo Kogyo Corporation

Japan FIBC Industry Outlook by Category

By Bag Type:

  • Type A
  • Type B
  • Type C
  • Type D

By Capacity:

  • Up to 250 Kgs
  • 250 Kgs to 750 Kgs
  • Above 750 Kg

By Design:

  • U Panel Bag
  • Four Side Panel
  • Baffle
  • Circular/ Tabular
  • Cross Corner

By End-use:

  • Building and Construction
  • Chemicals and Fertilizers
  • Food Products and Agriculture
  • Pharmaceutical Products
  • Mining

By Sub-region:

  • Hokkaido
  • Tohoku
  • Kanto
  • Chubu
  • Kansai
  • Chugoku
  • Shikoku
  • Kyushu & Okinawa

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the FIBC business in Japan?

Japan FIBC business revenue totaled USD 387.9 million in 2022.

What is the sales forecast for FIBCs in Japan?

FIBC sales in Japan are estimated to total USD 405.0 million in 2023.

At what rate will FIBC demand expand from 2023 to 2033 in Japan?

Demand for FIBCs in Japan is set to rise at a 4.9% CAGR through 2033.

What is the expected valuation for Japan FIBC business in 2033?

Total revenue in Japan is anticipated to reach USD 655.1 million by 2033.

Who are the top FIBC players in Japan?

Nihon Matai (Rengo Group), LLC, Hagihara Industries Inc., and Mitsubishi Corp. are the top players.

What sectors would extensively use FIBC bags?

Building & construction, food, and chemicals are key sectors that use FIBC bags.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Overview
	3. Key Trends
	4. Key Success Factors
	5. Demand Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	6. Pricing Analysis
	7. Demand (in Value or Size in USD million) Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	8. Business Background
	9. Industry Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Bag Type
		9.1. Type A
		9.2. Type B
		9.3. Type C
		9.4. Type D
	10. Industry Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Capacity
		10.1. Up to 250 Kgs
		10.2. 250 Kgs to 750 Kgs
		10.3. Above 750 Kgs
	11. Industry Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Design
		11.1. U Panel Bag
		11.2. Four Side Panel
		11.3. Baffle
		11.4. Circular/ Tabular
		11.5. Cross Corner
	12. Industry Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End-use
		12.1. Building and Construction
		12.2. Chemicals and Fertilizers
		12.3. Food Products and Agriculture
		12.4. Pharmaceutical Products
		12.5. Mining
	13. Structure Analysis
	14. Competition Analysis
		14.1. Grief, Inc.
		14.2. Berry Global Inc.
		14.3. Intertape Polymer Group
		14.4. LC Packaging International BV
		14.5. Nihon Matai Co., Ltd. (Rengo Group)
		14.6. Kohsei Co., Ltd.
		14.7. SHIBATA INDUSTRIAL CO.LTD.
		14.8. Media International Co. Ltd.
		14.9. Yamanaka Shokai Co. Ltd.
		14.10. Hagihara Industries Inc.
		14.11. SHIOYA co., ltd.
		14.12. SMC CO. LTD.
		14.13. Taiyo Kogyo Corporation
	15. Assumptions and Acronyms Used
	16. Research Methodology
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