The container liner market refers to protective material or container used for packaging goods that are transported via ships in intermodal containers or other cargo containers. These liners help prevent container walls from corrosion and damage caused due to heavy loads and harsh environmental conditions during transit. The most common types of liners used are made from thermoplastics like polypropylene and polyethylene that offer protection, corrosion resistance, moisture resistance and durability. With increasing globalization and demand for low-cost logistics, maritime transport has gained tremendous popularity over the years for trade of bulk commodities and manufactured goods worldwide.
The global container liner market is estimated to be valued at US$ 7.82 billion in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 5.4% over the forecast period 2024-2029.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the container liner market are Berry Global Inc., Greif Inc., International Paper Company, Eagle Manufacturing Company, BillerudKorsnäs AB, Bulk Handling Australia (BHA), Svensson Ltd, Nordic Tankers, Big 6 Pty LTD, and Falcon Autotech.
With the surging for Container Liner Market Growth trade volumes especially between developing Asian economies and North America/Europe, the demand for container liners is increasing steadily. Rapid growth of industries like automotive, electronics, food and beverages that rely heavily on sea shipments for import and export is a key factor fueling consumption.
Technological advancements in liner material from traditional jute, wood and plywood to more durable thermoplastics like polypropylene and polyethylene that provide longer lifespan and prevent corrosion better are enhancing operational efficiencies for logistics companies. Continuous R&D in material properties to keep optimizing characteristics like load bearing strength and recyclability is expanding application potential.
Market Trends
Growing popularity of reusable and returnable container liners: With sustainability becoming a key priority, liner manufacturers are innovating return logistics and recyclability features to promote circular economy. Reusable linen bags and inflatable airbags are gaining traction.
Increased automation in liner application and installation: Adoption of robotics, computer vision and IoT sensors help automate liner loading/unloading and optimize material usage through real-time quality monitoring during production and shipments. This improves throughput and brings down operational costs.
Market Opportunities
Rising preference for eco-friendly liners: Demand is expected to rise for liners made from recycled plastic resins and plant-based bioplastics to reduce dependency on virgin plastics and lower carbon footprint.
Growing transshipment traffic in emerging ports: Container transshipment hubs in Southeast Asia, Middle East and Africa offer opportunities to establish local liner production facilities and distribution networks to capture rising volumes.
Impact of COVID-19 on Container Liner Market Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the growth of the container liner market. During the initial phase of the pandemic, global trade was disrupted due to lockdowns imposed across countries. This led to a decline in the demand for container liners as shipping volumes reduced significantly.
However, with economies restarting operations gradually, demand is reviving slowly. Increased focus on ensuring safety and hygiene is boosting demand for single-use container liners. Manufacturers are designing liners incorporating antimicrobial properties to allay fears regarding virus transmission through containers.
The shipping industry is also opting for less congested ports and adopting calibrated sailing schedules in compliance with safety protocols. This has resulted in container detention costs going up, benefiting liner suppliers. As international trade gains pace supported by large-scale vaccination drives worldwide, the container liner market is anticipated to return to the growth trajectory through 2021 and beyond. However, future outbreaks can mar the steady recovery process.
Geographical Regions with Highest Container Liner Market Value
The Asia Pacific region accounts for the largest share of the global container liner market in terms of value. This is due to the presence of major shipping lanes and the highest concentration of container traffic worldwide. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea are the global manufacturing hubs facilitating extensive trade flows requiring container linings on a large scale.
North America is the second largest regional market supported by the busy shipping routes between the US and Asia. Major ports on the west coast and gulf coast handle large export-import container volumes. Europe is another lucrative geographical marketDue to extensive maritime trade within the EU and with other economies.
Fastest Growing Regional Market for Container Liners
The container liner market in Middle East and Africa is projected to expand at the fastest rate during the forecast period. This is attributed to the rising consumerism, rapid urbanization and growing industrial activity in the region. Countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa offer incentives for logistics and manufacturing sector development.
Mega infrastructure projects are boosting regional construction activity demanding building materials and equipment shipments. Increased trade agreements with Asian countries are favoring two-way container traffic. Development of modern port facilities and trade zones in the region also augur well for container liner suppliers.
Get More Insights on Container Liner Market
About Author:
Vaagisha brings over three years of expertise as a content editor in the market research domain. Originally a creative writer, she discovered her passion for editing, combining her flair for writing with a meticulous eye for detail. Her ability to craft and refine compelling content makes her an invaluable asset in delivering polished and engaging write-ups.
(LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaagisha-singh-8080b91)