---

Market Overview

---

The Middle East and Africa paper cups market is projected to grow from USD 668.3 million in 2023 to USD 845.2 million by 2028, at a CAGR of 4.81% during the forecast period.

Paper cups, designed with synthetic or bioplastic polymer linings or coatings, are a convenient and disposable solution for serving hot and cold beverages like coffee, tea, as well as food items such as ice cream and soup. The recyclability of paper cups is a significant driver for market growth. Because they are made of paper, these cups can be recycled indefinitely, aligning with environmental regulations and contributing to sustainability goals.

The demand for disposable cups in quick-service restaurants and their increasing use in commercial and residential settings for serving water are expected to drive market growth. Additionally, the popularity of on-the-go beverages and the growth of the food and beverage industry in the region contribute to the expansion of the paper cup market. With the dynamic nature of the industry, packaging producers are presented with opportunities to meet innovative packaging needs in the food and beverage sector.

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a shift in focus towards market disruptions and their impact on the packaging industry. Sustainability has become a paramount concern, with discussions revolving around the use of plastics, recycling, and the development of bio-materials, driven by consumer pressure and intense debates.

The fast food and quick service restaurant sector in the Middle East is expected to experience significant growth, driven by changing consumer preferences and an increase in the working population. Eating out is a popular activity in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where limited entertainment options exist. Disposable paper cups are widely used in quick-service restaurants, contributing to the overall demand for paper cups. The establishment of new infrastructures such as roads, airports, malls, parks, and entertainment centers further supports the growth of food and beverage chains. Moreover, the demand for fast and ready-to-eat food and beverages is fueled by frequent travel in the region.

Notably, international companies such as Domino’s Pizza Inc., McDonald’s Corp., and KFC Inc. have substantial operations and revenues in the Middle East. The rise of quick-service restaurants directly increases the demand for beverages, consequently driving the need for paper cups in the region. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes in restaurant operations, including curbside pickup and carryout options, resulting in increased demand for paper cup solutions to maintain hygiene standards.

The café and tea shop industry in the region shows potential for expansion, driven by the preferences of young urbanites and foreigners who seek cafés with a Western aesthetic. These establishments provide spaces for socializing, working, and enjoying free Wi-Fi, similar to full-service and fast-food restaurants.

---

Market Segmentation

---

The market is segmented based on various factors, including cup type, application, and country.

Segmentation by Cup Type
Hot Paper Cup
Cold Paper Cup

Segmentation by Application
Quick Service Restaurants
Institutional
Other Applications

Segmentation by Country
United Arab Emirates
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
Nigeria
Rest of Middle East and Africa

The hot paper cup segment accounted for the largest share, 58.28%, of the Middle East and Africa paper cup market in 2022. It is projected to experience the highest CAGR of 5.01% during the forecast period (2023-2028). The demand for hot paper cups is fueled by factors such as population growth, rapid commercial and institutional infrastructure development, and high individual spending capacity in the Middle East. Additionally, the fast-paced lifestyle in the region has led to an increase in the consumption of hot paper cups. Branded coffee shops, such as Starbucks, have also gained popularity in the Middle East, further contributing to the demand for hot paper cups.

In terms of application, the quick service restaurants segment held the largest share, 69.43%, of the market in 2022, with a value of USD 439 million. It is expected to reach USD 600.3 million by 2028, exhibiting the highest CAGR of 5.21% during the forecast period. The Middle-Eastern fast food and quick service restaurant industry is projected to expand significantly, propelled by evolving consumer preferences and a growing working population. Dining out is a common activity in the GCC, where entertainment options are limited. Disposable paper cups are extensively used in these establishments, leading to a high demand for paper cups. The construction of new roads, airports, malls, parks, and entertainment centers in the Middle East has also created opportunities for various food and beverage chains. Moreover, frequent travel contributes to the increased demand for convenient and ready-to-eat food and beverages.

In terms of geography, Saudi Arabia held the largest share, 24.22%, of the market in 2022, with a value of USD 153.1 million. It is projected to reach USD 208.9 million by 2028, demonstrating the highest CAGR of 5.18% during the forecast period. The paper cup market in Saudi Arabia is expected to witness significant growth due to increased travel and exposure to Western culture through social media. This, coupled with technological advancements and shifting social norms, has led to an expanding consumer base and increased sales in the food service industry. The demand for prepared foods and beverages has also risen in sectors such as the airline industry, labor camps, military facilities, hospitals, universities, schools, and during religious pilgrimages and celebrations. The growing preference for unique experiences among consumers has resulted in a shift from fast food to fast casual formats, where quality experience holds greater significance than mere convenience. Furthermore, the high demand for home delivery, particularly to workplaces, and the increasing number of entertainment and sporting venues as part of Vision 2030 will further drive the market’s growth.

---

Competitive Landscape

---

The Middle East and Africa paper cup market is characterized by fragmentation, primarily due to the significant presence of regional and local vendors offering paper cups. Among the key players in this market are ENPI Group, Huhtamaki Group, Gulf East Paper & Plastic Group, and several others.

HotpackGlobal unveiled a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Qatar in November 2022. This specialized factory is dedicated to producing a diverse range of Hotpack’s paper products, including folding and corrugated cartons, paper bags, and cups. Located in Doha’s new industrial region, the facility is equipped with advanced technology and infrastructure.

Detpak introduced their latest innovative product, the Detpak paper lid, in October 2022. The Detpak paper lid is manufactured using the same paper material commonly found in coffee cups, with an added thin polymer lamination that ensures secure containment of liquids. This development is part of Detpak’s commitment to Responsible by Design, a guiding principle behind their leading line of paper-based products. By utilizing the Detpak paper lid, take-out coffees significantly reduce their consumption of single-use plastic, with a reduction as high as 83%.

Key companies profiled in this report include Enpi Group, Huhtamaki Group, Gulf East Paper & Plastic Group, Golden Paper Cups Manufacturing LLC, MAIMOON Papers Industry LLC, Hotpack Packaging Industries LLC, Graphic Packaging International, Saqr Pack, Arkan Mfg Paper Cup Company, Saham Group, Ultracare LLC, Bony Packaging, Pack- Zone, Detpak South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Alfa Pack, Falcon Pack.

---

Recent Industry Developments

---

In November 2022, HotpackGlobal, a leading UAE-based company specializing in disposable food packaging products, announced the inauguration of its manufacturing plant in Qatar. This facility marks the 15th factory owned and operated by HotpackGlobal worldwide, showcasing the company’s ambitious global vision of becoming a leader in the international food packaging industry by 2030. The manufacturing plant is situated in Doha’s new industrial area and focuses on producing a diverse range of Hotpackpaper products, including folding and corrugated cartons, paper bags, and cups.

In September 2022, Huhtamaki and StoraEnso launched an initiative aimed at recycling paper cups. The program, known as the Cup Collective, strives to facilitate the industrial-scale recycling of used paper cups and provide both consumers and businesses with convenient access to receptacles for collecting these cups. The collected cups are then transformed into valuable recycled raw materials through an innovative process, contributing to the sustainability of paper cup disposal and utilization.

---

Key Questions Answered

---

What is the study period for the Middle East and Africa Paper Cups Market?
The study of the Middle East and Africa Paper Cups Market covers the period from 2018 to 2028.

What is the growth rate of the Middle East and Africa Paper Cups Market?
The Middle East and Africa Paper Cups Market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.81% over the next five years.

What is the size of the Middle East and Africa Paper Cups Market?
The Middle East and Africa Paper Cups Market is projected to reach USD 668.26 million in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.81% to reach USD 845.20 million by 2028.

Who are the key players in the Middle East and Africa Paper Cups Market?
The major companies operating in the Middle East and Africa Paper Cups Market include Enpi Group, Huhtamaki Group, Gulf East Paper & Plastic Group, Golden Paper Cups Manufacturing LLC, and MAIMOON Papers Industry LLC.