Packaging in 2024: The big picture
In 2024, packaging volume in Argentina experienced a significant decline, driven by the country’s ongoing economic instability, shifting consumer priorities and evolving sustainability expectations. Flexible packaging continues to be the dominant pack type in packaged food, while, in soft drinks, PET bottles remained dominant, although metal beverage cans stood out as the only growing pack type, with penetration doubling since 2019. In alcoholic drinks, glass bottles continued to lead due to their premium perception and barrier properties, although metal beverage cans were gaining share over the review period, driven by their convenience and affordability as well as their appeal to younger consumers.
2024 key trends
In 2024, persistent inflation and rising production costs were driving both producers and consumers to seek more cost-efficient alternatives. In alcoholic drinks, the bag-in-box format offers larger volumes at lower unit prices, while cutting packaging, transportation and storage costs. In wine, a cornerstone of Argentina’s alcoholic drinks industry, climate disruptions and higher costs for traditional materials like glass have accelerated the move towards alternative packaging formats. In home care, consumers increasingly sought value options, such as bulk packs or refills, and, in some cases, reduced purchasing frequency altogether.
Shaped liquid cartons gain share in dairy due to their perceived sustainability and alignment with consumer values
Flexible packaging remained the dominant pack type in food packaging, accounting for 71% of the total retail unit volumes. Confectionery is the biggest user of flexible packaging, making up 30% of total unit volumes of this pack type in food. Confectionery packaging volume declined in 2024, with this mainly associated with the economic crisis causing people to prioritise what they buy as well as the labelling law. The implementation of Argentina’s labelling law led to a temporary decline in packaging volume for confectionery products, as manufacturers were required to redesign and replace existing packaging to comply with new nutritional labelling standards. Under Law No 27,642, packaging for confectionery – often high in sugar, fat and calories – was required to display prominent front-of-pack warning labels, along with precautionary notes for caffeine and sweeteners commonly found in these products. These rules, paired with restrictions on advertising to children, significantly impacted the category, prompting brands to overhaul existing designs.
Rigid plastic continues to dominate soft drinks packaging but metal beverage cans double their share
PET bottles continued to dominate soft drinks packaging in 2024. Their popularity is driven by affordability, durability and convenience, especially when compared with glass bottles, which carry higher logistical and transportation costs. In 2024, Argentina’s PET recycling sector experienced significant growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable packaging and stronger regulatory frameworks.
Glass bottles continue to dominate alcoholic drinks packaging but metal beverage cans are gaining ground
In 2024, glass bottles remained the preferred packaging for alcoholic drinks in Argentina. Their superior barrier properties protect the product from moisture, air and light, helping preserve carbonation and prevent oxidation. Because glass is chemically inert, it eliminates any risk of flavour alteration or contamination. In beer, leading brands such as Brahma, Quilmes Cristal and Schneider continue to use glass bottles, reinforcing their strong appeal among consumers. In wine, glass bottles are also widely associated with a premium, higher-quality drinking experience.
Inflation drives shift towards lightweight and polarised pack sizes
Argentina’s prolonged macroeconomic instability, characterised by persistent inflation, currency volatility and rising import costs, have reshaped both supply and demand dynamics, compelling manufacturers to adopt lightweight materials and smaller pack formats to mitigate input costs, optimise logistics and maintain price accessibility in an inflationary market. On the consumer side, packaging preferences are diverging into two distinct trends. On the one hand, demand is increasing for small, portable and single-use packs in categories such as deodorants, facial care and fragrances, in which consumers prioritise affordability per unit, convenience and flexibility, despite higher per-litre prices. On the other hand, large-format economy packs in categories like shampoo, shower gels and family-size lotions are gaining popularity as households seek to secure better unit value and reduce purchase frequency in response to eroding purchasing power.
HDPE bottles remain popular but are losing ground as refill pack types gain traction in home care
In 2024, HDPE bottles remained the dominant packaging format in home care in Argentina, but performed worse than space-efficient alternatives such as flexible pouches. HDPE bottles remain prevalent across multiple categories, particularly in bleach and liquid detergents, with leading examples including Ayudín bleach and Ala liquid laundry detergent, as well as Magistral hand dishwashing liquids. These packs are valued for their durability, chemical resistance and recyclability, although rising production costs, competition from refill formats and growing sustainability pressures have reduced demand. The competitive landscape is further intensifying as brands experiment with concentrated formulas in smaller pack sizes and refill pouches, offering consumers cost savings and reducing environmental impact, which has, in turn, contributed to HDPE’s gradual decline.
Flexible packaging dominates pet food as metal cans continue lose share
Flexible packaging continued to lead dog and cat food packaging in 2024, accounting for 96% of overall unit volumes. Metal food cans continue to lose share in cat food packaging in Argentina, primarily due to changing consumer preferences and economic constraints. With inflation and economic instability affecting disposable incomes, Argentinian pet owners are increasingly opting for more affordable alternatives, such as flexible packaging. Another factor contributing to this decline is the growing emphasis on sustainability. Although metal cans are recyclable, their energy-intensive production process and heavier weight compared to flexible packaging make them less appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Flexible options, such as plastic pouches, are easier to store and handle, making them more suitable for busy lifestyles.
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Overview:
Understand the latest market trends and future growth opportunities for the Packaging industry in Argentina with research from Euromonitor International's team of in-country analysts – experts by industry and geographic specialisation.
Key trends are clearly and succinctly summarised alongside the most current research data available. Understand and assess competitive threats and plan corporate strategy with our qualitative analysis, insight and confident growth projections.
Data and analysis in this report provides further detailed coverage dedicated to a comprehensive range of packaging types.
If you're in the Packaging industry in Argentina, our research will help you to make informed, intelligent decisions; to recognise and profit from opportunity, or to offer resilience amidst market uncertainty.
The Packaging in Argentina report includes:
- Analysis of key supply-side and demand trends
- Detailed segmentation of international and local products
- Historic volume and value sizes, company and brand market shares
- Five year forecasts of market trends and market growth
- Robust and transparent research methodology, conducted in-country
This report answers:
- What is the market size of Packaging in Argentina?
- Which are the major pack types and how are they performing in Argentina?
- Have there been any packaging legislative changes in the past 12 months?
- How are consumption trends impacting the packaging landscape?
- What are the key trends and latest product developments in packaging?
- How important are sustainability and recycling to consumers in Argentina?
- Where is future growth expected to be most significant?
Packaging Industry in Argentina
Packaging in 2024: The big picture
2024 key trends
Shaped liquid cartons gain share in dairy due to their perceived sustainability and alignment with consumer values
Rigid plastic continues to dominate soft drinks packaging but metal beverage cans double their share
Glass bottles continue to dominate alcoholic drinks packaging but metal beverage cans are gaining ground
Inflation drives shift towards lightweight and polarised pack sizes
HDPE bottles remain popular but are losing ground as refill pack types gain traction in home care
Flexible packaging dominates pet food as metal cans continue lose share
New regulations redefine “excessive” nutrients and advertising limits
New regulations standardise labelling for plant-based food
Warning labels influence purchasing decisions under Argentina’s FOPL law
Soft drinks packaging embraces sustainability with increased use of rPET in 2024
Sustainability pressures driving decline in flexible aluminium/plastic
Beauty and personal care packaging shifts towards sustainability
DISCLAIMER
The following categories and subcategories are included:
Packaging
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- Baby and Child-specific Products Packaging
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- Bar Soap
- Bath Additives
- Body Powder
- Body Wash/Shower Gel
- Hand Sanitisers
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- Intimate Washes
- Intimate Wipes
- Liquid Soap
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- Eye Liner/Pencil
- Eye Shadow
- Mascara
- Other Lash and Brow Make-Up
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- BB/CC Creams
- Blusher/Bronzer/Highlighter
- Foundation/Concealer
- Powder
- Other Facial Make-Up
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- Lip Gloss
- Lip Liner/Pencil
- Lipstick
- Other Lip Products
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- Nail Polish
- Nail Treatments/Strengthener
- Polish Remover
- Other Nail Products
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- Deodorant Creams
- Deodorant Pumps
- Deodorant Roll-Ons
- Deodorant Sprays
- Deodorant Sticks
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- Hair Removers/Bleaches
- Women's Pre-Shave
- Women's Razors and Blades
- Fragrances Packaging
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- 2-in-1 Products
- Colourants
- Conditioners and Treatments
- Perms and Relaxants
- Salon Professional Hair Care
- Standard Shampoos
- Styling Agents
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- Men's Post-Shave
- Men's Pre-Shave
- Men's Razors and Blades
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- Men's Bath and Shower
- Men's Deodorants
- Men's Hair Care
- Men's Skin Care
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- Dental Floss
- Denture Care
- Mouth Fresheners
- Mouthwashes/Dental Rinses
- Tooth Whiteners
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
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- Body Care
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- Face Masks
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- Liquid/Cream/Gel/Bar Cleansers
- Facial Cleansing Wipes
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- Basic Moisturisers
- Anti-Agers
- Lip Care
- Toners
- Hand Care
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- Adult Sun Care
- Baby and Child-specific Sun Care
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- Dark Beer
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- Flavoured/Mixed Lager
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- Domestic Lager
- Imported Lager
- Non/Low Alcohol Beer
- Stout
- Cider/Perry
- RTDs
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- Brandy and Cognac
- Liqueurs
- Rum
- Tequila (and Mezcal)
- Whiskies
- White Spirits
- Other Spirits
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- Fortified Wine and Vermouth
- Non-Grape Wine
- Sparkling Wine
- Still Light Grape Wine
- Non Alcoholic Wine
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- Fresh Coffee Beans
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- Fresh Ground Coffee Pods
- Standard Fresh Ground Coffee
- Instant Coffee
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- Black Tea
- Green Tea
- Fruit/Herbal Tea
- Instant Tea
- Other Tea
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- Flavoured Powder Drinks
- Other Plant-based Hot Drinks
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- Asian Speciality Drinks
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- Carbonated Bottled Water
- Flavoured Bottled Water
- Functional Bottled Water
- Still Bottled Water
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- Cola Carbonates
- Non-Cola Carbonates
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- Liquid Concentrates
- Powder Concentrates
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- 100% Juice
- Juice Drinks (up to 24% Juice)
- Nectars (25-99% Juice)
- Coconut and Other Plant Waters
- Energy Drinks
- Sports Drinks
- RTD Coffee
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- Carbonated RTD Tea and Kombucha
- Still RTD Tea
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- Cat Treats and Mixers
- Dry Cat Food
- Wet Cat Food
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- Dog Treats and Mixers
- Dry Dog Food
- Wet Dog Food
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- Dried Baby Food
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- Liquid Milk Formula
- Powder Milk Formula
- Prepared Baby Food
- Other Baby Food
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- Dessert Mixes
- Frozen Baked Goods
- Packaged Bread
- Packaged Cakes
- Packaged Pastries
- Dessert Pies and Tarts
- Breakfast Cereals Packaging
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- Chocolate Pouches and Bags
- Boxed Assortments
- Chocolate with Toys
- Countlines
- Seasonal Chocolate
- Tablets
- Other Chocolate Confectionery
- Gum
- Sugar Confectionery
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- Butter and Spreads
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- Processed Cheese
- Packaged Hard Cheese
- Soft Cheese
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- Flavoured Milk Drinks
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- Fresh Milk
- Shelf Stable Milk
- Goat Milk
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- Powder Milk
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- Sour Milk Products
- Yoghurt
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- Chilled and Shelf Stable Desserts
- Chilled Snacks
- Coffee Whiteners
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- Condensed Milk
- Cream
- Fromage Frais and Quark
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- Plant-based Milk
- Plant-based Yoghurt
- Plant-based Cheese
- Edible Oils Packaging
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- Frozen Yoghurt
- Impulse Ice Cream
- Plant-based Ice Cream
- Take-Home Ice Cream
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- Frozen Fruit
- Frozen Processed Potatoes
- Frozen Processed Vegetables
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- Shelf Stable Beans
- Shelf Stable Fruit
- Shelf Stable Tomatoes
- Shelf Stable Vegetables
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- Chilled Processed Meat
- Frozen Processed Meat
- Shelf Stable Meat
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- Chilled Processed Seafood
- Frozen Processed Seafood
- Shelf Stable Seafood
- Meat and seafood substitutes inc Tofu
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- Dried Ready Meals
- Shelf Stable Ready Meals
- Chilled Ready Meals
- Frozen Ready Meals
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- Chilled Pizza
- Frozen Pizza
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- Meal Kits
- Quick Recipe Kits
- Chilled Lunch Kits
- Prepared Salads
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- Dry Soup
- Shelf Stable Soup
- Chilled Soup
- Frozen Soup
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- Noodles
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- Chilled Pasta
- Dried Pasta
- Rice
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- Bouillon
- Gravy Cubes, Powders and Pots
- Herbs and Spices
- Monosodium Glutamate
- Tomato Pastes and Purées
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- Liquid Recipe Sauces (excl pasta sauces)
- Dry Recipe Sauces
- Pasta Sauces
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- Barbecue Sauces
- Chili Sauces
- Fish Sauces
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Oyster Sauces
- Salad Dressings
- Soy Sauces
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- Dips
- Pickled Products
- Other Sauces and Condiments
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- Nuts, Seeds and Trail Mixes
- Popcorn
- Pretzels
- Salty Snacks
- Savoury Biscuits
- Meat Snacks
- Seafood Snacks
- Other Savoury Snacks
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- Chocolate Spreads
- Honey
- Jams and Preserves
- Nut and Seed Based Spreads
- Yeast-based Spreads
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- Fruit Snacks
- Snack Bars
- Sweet Biscuits
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- Candle Air Fresheners
- Car Air Fresheners
- Electric Air Fresheners
- Gel Air Fresheners
- Liquid Air Fresheners
- Spray/Aerosol Air Fresheners
- Other Air Care
- Bleach
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- Automatic Dishwashing Liquids
- Automatic Dishwashing Powders
- Automatic Dishwashing Tablets
- Dishwashing Additives
- Hand Dishwashing
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- Electric Insecticides
- Insecticide Baits
- Insecticide Coils
- Spray/Aerosol Insecticides
- Other Home Insecticides
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- Carpet Cleaners
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- Dryer Sheets
- Liquid Fabric Softeners
- Laundry Aids
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- Powder Detergents
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- Compact Powder Tablet Detergents
- Liquid Tablet Detergents
- Liquid Detergents
- Other Detergents
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- Floor Polish
- Furniture Polish
- Metal Polish
- Shoe Polish
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- Cleaning Solution
- Starter Kits/Sweepers/Sticks (Excluding Wipes)
- Wipes (Excluding Starter Kits/Sweepers/Sticks)
- Bathroom Cleaners
- Descalers
- Drain Openers
- Floor Cleaners
- Home Care Disinfectants
- Kitchen Cleaners
- Multi-Purpose Cleaners
- Oven Cleaners
- Scouring Agents
- Window/Glass Cleaners
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- In-Cistern Devices
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- Rim Blocks
- Rim Liquids
- Toilet Care Tablets/Powders
- Toilet Cleaning Systems
- Toilet Liquids/Foam
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This report originates from Passport, our Packaging research and analysis database.
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