Water Soluble Films Market size is estimated to be valued at USD466.7 Mn in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 744.5 Mn in 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of6.9% from 2025 to 2032.
The global Water Soluble Films Market outlook is experiencing strong growth due to the rise in use of water soluble films, the increase in applications of water soluble films, and the rise in demand for detergent and disinfectant across the world. Moreover, an increase in the use of single-and unit-dose packaging in various end-use industries is expected to boost the growth of the market.
By Type, the Cold Water-Soluble Films segment is projected to account for the highest Water Soluble Films Market demand share in 2025, primarily driven by its growing adoption in pharmaceutical applications. These films are increasingly used in the production of water-soluble laundry bags, which play a vital role in infection control by dissolving completely and eliminating contaminated packaging waste.
The demand for cold water-soluble films is gaining momentum, especially in the single- and unit-dose packaging sector. As the pharmaceutical industry increasingly moves towards sustainable, hygienic, and convenient packaging formats, the preference for cold water-soluble films continues to rise due to their functionality and environmental compatibility.
By Dissolution Rate, the Fast Soluble Films segment is anticipated to lead the Water Soluble Films Market growth in 2025, attributed to its expanding usage across multiple end-user industries, particularly pharmaceuticals. These films offer rapid dissolution properties, which are especially critical in drug delivery systems and unit-dose packaging, where timely solubility ensures product efficacy.
Meanwhile, the Medium Soluble Films segment is poised for substantial growth during the forecast period. These films, characterized by relatively higher molecular weight polymers, are widely used across industrial and consumer applications due to their balanced solubility and mechanical properties. Their versatility makes them the most commonly adopted category for varied use cases including detergents, agrochemicals, and more.
By End-User Industry, the Packaging segment is expected to dominate the global market by 2025, driven by increasing demand for eco-friendly and single-dose packaging solutions. The packaging industry remains the largest consumer of water-soluble films, owing to their convenience, complete solubility—even in cold water—and ability to minimize environmental impact.
The Pharmaceuticals segment is also projected to witness robust growth over the forecast period. As the demand for secure, safe, and hygienic drug packaging escalates, pharmaceutical manufacturers are turning to water-soluble films for precise unit-dose packaging. Their application ensures product stability, user safety, and waste reduction—making them an integral part of pharmaceutical packaging strategies.
To learn more about this report, Download Free Sample
North America is projected to hold the largest share of the global water soluble films market forecast in 2025, driven by rising adoption across pharmaceutical, food, and agricultural industries. The region benefits from strong demand for single- and unit-dose packaging formats, especially within healthcare and chemical handling sectors, where safety, precision, and hygiene are paramount.
The U.S. and Canada lead the region's growth, supported by advanced manufacturing capabilities and increasing investment in sustainable packaging technologies. In February 2025, Bioplastics International introduced a water soluble alternative to petroleum-based plastic, which dissolves in water within minutes without leaving microplastic residues—marking a major innovation in environmentally responsible packaging. The region’s focus on reducing plastic waste, coupled with strict environmental regulations and consumer preference for eco-friendly materials, continues to propel market demand.
Asia Pacific is anticipated to be the fastest growing region in the global water soluble films market trend over the forecast period. Rapid industrialization, growing environmental awareness, and a booming pharmaceutical sector, particularly in India, are key growth drivers. Increasing applications in unit-dose packaging across pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and detergents further support market expansion.
India, in particular, stands out as a major contributor to regional growth. According to the Economic Survey 2020–21, the Indian pharmaceutical industry is projected to reach US$ 65 billion by 2024 and US$ 130 billion by 2030. Moreover, data from the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) indicates that Indian pharmaceutical exports were valued at US$ 2.1 billion in June 2022 alone. These trends, alongside rising environmental policies and cost-effective production capabilities, make Asia Pacific a highly attractive market for water soluble film manufacturers.
The U.S. represents the primary growth engine within North America’s water soluble films market share. Its dominance stems from well-established pharmaceutical and chemical industries, heightened demand for sustainable packaging, and proactive environmental regulation. Major innovations—such as the launch of biodegradable, water soluble films that leave no microplastic waste—position the country at the forefront of green packaging solutions. Robust investment in R&D, coupled with collaboration between government bodies and eco-conscious packaging firms, is expected to further strengthen the U.S.'s position in the global market.
India is emerging as a key growth hub in the Asia Pacific water soluble films market value, bolstered by strong pharmaceutical output, favorable policy support, and growing environmental consciousness. The government’s Digital India and Make in India initiatives, alongside increasing export activity, create a fertile ground for market adoption. As Indian pharmaceutical and agrochemical sectors continue to expand, the demand for safe, efficient, and dissolvable packaging formats is growing rapidly. These trends are expected to solidify India’s role as a leading consumer and producer of water soluble films in the region.
| Report Coverage | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Year: | 2024 | Market Size in 2025: | USD 466.7 Mn |
| Historical Data for: | 2020 To 2024 | Forecast Period: | 2025 To 2032 |
| Forecast Period 2025 to 2032 CAGR: | 6.9% | 2032 Value Projection: | USD 744.5 Mn |
| Geographies covered: |
|
||
| Segments covered: |
|
||
| Companies covered: |
Mondi Group, Kuraray Co. Ltd., Cortec Corporation, Arrow GreenTech Ltd., AMC (UK) Ltd., Aicello Corporation, Sekisui Chemical Co. Ltd., Neptun Technologies GmbH, and Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, among others |
||
| Growth Drivers: |
|
||
| Restraints & Challenges: |
|
||
Uncover macros and micros vetted on 75+ parameters: Get instant access to report
*Definition: Water soluble films, both cold water soluble film and hot water soluble film, is a synthetic polymer that is soluble in water. These films are widely used for unit dose packaging of detergents, agrochemicals, water treatment chemicals, food ingredients, and others. Thus, there is an increasing demand for water soluble films.
*Definition: Water soluble films, both cold water soluble film and hot water soluble film, is a synthetic polymer that is soluble in water. These films are widely used for unit dose packaging of detergents, agrochemicals, water treatment chemicals, food ingredients, and others. Thus, there is an increasing demand for water soluble films.
Share
Share
About Author
Vidyesh Swar is a seasoned Consultant with a diverse background in market research and business consulting. With over 6 years of experience, Vidyesh has established a strong reputation for his proficiency in market estimations, supplier landscape analysis, and market share assessments for tailored research solution. Using his deep industry knowledge and analytical skills, he provides valuable insights and strategic recommendations, enabling clients to make informed decisions and navigate complex business landscapes.
Missing comfort of reading report in your local language? Find your preferred language :
Transform your Strategy with Exclusive Trending Reports :
Frequently Asked Questions
Joining thousands of companies around the world committed to making the Excellent Business Solutions.
View All Our Clients
Schedule a meeting with report Author
