1. Paper consumption growth (2020–2025)
Aggregated data on paper consumption over the past five years shows the following growth trajectory.
| Year | Total amount (million of tons) | YoY |
| 2020 | 5.08 | – |
| 2021 | 5.55 | +9.06% |
| 2022 | 5.94 | +7.02% |
| 2023 | 6.28 | +5.72% |
| 2024 | 6.46 | +2.86% |
| 10 months of 2025 | 6.53 | +23.2% |
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Total paper consumption for printing and packaging reached 6.53 million tons in the first 10 months of 2025, marking a +23.2% increase year-on-year, the strongest growth in the past five years.
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The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for 2020–2025 is estimated at 7–8%, significantly outperforming the global average of 2–3%.
2. Structural shift – carton packaging dominates
Packaging paper accounts for over 80% of total paper consumption and continues to increase its share, confirming its role as the core pillar of Vietnam’s printing and packaging industry.
Consumption structure (2024–2025):
This data clearly indicates that carton packaging is expanding not only in volume but also in strategic importance.
3. Key drivers behind packaging paper growth
The report identifies three main drivers accelerating demand for carton packaging:
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Global supply chain relocation from China to Vietnam and ASEAN, increasing export-oriented packaging demand.
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Strong export growth in electronics, textiles, and agricultural products, driving higher carton box usage.
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Global shift from plastic to paper-based packaging, supported by sustainability policies.
Vietnam’s packaging paper growth rate (~10–12%) far exceeds regional (4–6%) and global averages (2–3%).
4. 2026 outlook – steady but sustainable growth
Forecasts by paper segment:
Total paper consumption for printing and packaging in 2026 is projected at 7.9–8.1 million tons, with growth stabilizing after the 2025 surge.
5. Industry conclusion
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Vietnam’s printing industry is clearly shifting from commercial printing toward packaging and labeling.
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Paper-based packaging, especially corrugated carton, is the primary growth engine of the industry.
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Vietnam is strengthening its position in the global packaging supply chain, creating opportunities for investment in automation, advanced converting technologies, and sustainable packaging materials.
Source: Prima
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