Refuse Bags Market Set to Reach USD 5.8 Billion by 2035, Driven by Sustainability and Innovation

The global refuse bags market is entering a new era of growth and innovation, as rising demand for waste management solutions intersects with sustainability goals. Valued at USD 3.1 billion in 2025, the market is projected to nearly double and reach USD 5.8 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 6.5%. Both established players and emerging manufacturers are racing to capture opportunities in this essential yet evolving industry.

Market Dynamics Fueling Growth

The surge in global refuse bag demand is being shaped by rising urbanization, stricter waste management regulations, and consumer demand for hygiene-focused solutions. Households, businesses, and public institutions alike rely heavily on refuse bags to ensure cleanliness and safe disposal of waste.

In recent years, governments have tightened environmental regulations and encouraged the use of biodegradable or recyclable refuse bags. This has pushed manufacturers to innovate and invest in eco-friendly materials. At the same time, the hospitality, healthcare, and retail sectors are generating higher waste volumes, increasing the need for durable, puncture-resistant, and odor-controlling refuse bags.

With polymer technology advancing, producers are now able to design stronger yet lightweight bags that minimize material usage, reducing environmental impact while maintaining performance.

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Segmental Highlights

Polyethylene (PE) Leads the Way

By 2025, polyethylene (PE) is expected to account for 47.6% of the market, making it the leading material. Known for its strength, affordability, and versatility, PE remains the backbone of refuse bag manufacturing. What is changing, however, is the shift toward recycled and bio-based PE. Manufacturers are increasingly using these alternatives to align with sustainability goals, ensuring PE bags retain their dominance while responding to environmental concerns.

Medium-Sized Bags in High Demand

Refuse bags with a capacity of 11 to 25 gallons are forecasted to contribute 34.2% of global revenue in 2025. Their adaptability makes them the preferred choice for households, small businesses, and retail outlets. Medium-capacity bags strike the right balance between practicality and affordability, ensuring widespread use in both residential and commercial settings.

Commercial Segment Remains Dominant

The commercial sector is expected to capture 52.1% of market share in 2025, underscoring its role as the leading end-use category. Restaurants, offices, hotels, and healthcare facilities all depend on high-capacity, leak-resistant refuse bags to meet strict hygiene and regulatory requirements. Partnerships between waste management companies and commercial businesses are reinforcing bulk procurement, further driving growth in this segment.

Regional and Country-Level Insights

United States: Driving Innovation

The United States is projected to maintain strong demand for refuse bags, expanding at a CAGR of 4.2% through 2035. With a high standard of living, robust manufacturing sector, and large waste volumes, the country relies heavily on reliable waste solutions. The U.S. also benefits from advanced research and development infrastructure, enabling continuous progress in eco-friendly and durable bag technologies.

Japan: Low-Cost Advantage

Japan’s refuse bag market is set to create an incremental opportunity of USD 3.1 billion between 2025 and 2035. With over 90% of its population living in urban areas, refuse bags have become essential household products. Low production and labor costs give Japan a competitive edge, enabling mass production at scale.

India and China: Rapidly Expanding Demand

Emerging economies such as India and China are witnessing accelerated demand due to growing urbanization and the expansion of organized waste collection systems. By 2035, India’s share is projected to rise from 5.0% in 2025 to 6.8%, while China is set to increase from 6.8% to 7.7%. These countries represent critical growth hubs for global manufacturers.

Sustainability at the Core of Strategy

Consumer preference for sustainable products is reshaping industry strategies. Surveys indicate that over 65% of global consumers now prioritize eco-friendly purchases, a trend that refuse bag manufacturers cannot ignore.

To meet this demand, companies are increasingly focusing on:

• Biodegradable refuse bags made from plant-based materials.
• Recyclable PE bags that reduce plastic waste.
• Innovative features such as odor control, antibacterial protection, and easy-tie handles to enhance convenience.

Governments worldwide are promoting biodegradable alternatives as part of broader anti-plastic measures, creating a fertile ground for manufacturers to launch green innovations.

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Competitive Landscape

The global refuse bags market is highly competitive, featuring both well-established industry giants and innovative newcomers.

Key players include Berry Global Inc., The Clorox Company, The Glad Product Company, Four Star Plastics, Mirpack TM, Primax D.O.O, International Plastics Inc., NOVPLAST S.R.O, DAGOPLAST AS, Terdex GmbH, Kemii Garbage Bag Co. Ltd, Novolex, Luban Packing LLC, and Cosmoplast Industrial Company LLC.

These companies are heavily investing in research and development to meet evolving customer needs. For example:

• In May 2025, Berry Global introduced its “Ruffies” line of refuse bags in the UK, made from repurposed agricultural plastic waste, showcasing a step toward circular economy practices.
• In November 2024, Cedo Ltd launched Good Karma Antibac, a 100% recycled and recyclable antibacterial refuse bag, responding to growing hygiene demands in healthcare and commercial sectors.

Such innovations highlight the shift from traditional disposable plastics toward value-added, sustainable solutions.

Looking Ahead

The refuse bags market has already proven its resilience, growing at a 5.4% CAGR between 2020 and 2022 despite global disruptions. Looking forward, the combination of sustainability, regulatory support, and technological innovation is expected to unlock new opportunities for manufacturers.

Commercial buyers will continue to drive bulk demand, while households and small businesses seek cost-effective and versatile mid-sized bags. Meanwhile, emerging economies will fuel market expansion as they improve waste collection infrastructure.

As global waste generation increases and consumers demand greener solutions, the industry stands at the crossroads of responsibility and profitability. Established players and startups alike are poised to benefit from this transformation—whether by investing in biodegradable alternatives, strengthening supply chains, or introducing user-friendly product features.

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