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The packaging industry outlook for 2026
The packaging industry enters 2026 under multiple pressures from sustainability regulations, consumer affordability, and tariff policies. Industry experts expect U.S. recycled content requirements to tighten, M&A activity to concentrate in specific segments, supply-demand adjustments in the containerboard market, and extended producer responsibility regulations to become the most closely watched policy variable.
The packaging industry outlook for 2025
At the start of 2025, the packaging industry landscape has already shifted significantly: major players in the paper and plastics sectors have joined forces with key competitors through a series of large-scale mergers and acquisitions; President Trump seeks to reshape relations with trading partners; and U.S. producers will, for the first time, face compliance obligations under packaging EPR programs in multiple states simultaneously. This article further explores core topics such as annual M&A decisions, factors influencing EPR policy development, sustainable investments, and changes in target timelines.