Packaging in 2024: The big picture
Total packaging volumes in Colombia increased in 2024, driven by several factors. Firstly, this growth was driven by Colombia’s record-breaking tourism performance in 2024, which saw 6.7 million international visitors and USD40 billion in tourism revenue, surpassing traditional exports like coffee and coal. The surge in tourism boosted demand for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as packaged food in bars, restaurants and hotels, particularly favouring premium products in glass packaging in alcoholic beverages. In addition, Colombia’s economic recovery supported increased consumer spending, with GDP growing by 1.7% and private consumption rising by 1.6%. The rebound in social and entertainment activities, along with improved consumer confidence, higher disposable incomes, and strong remittance inflows, further fuelled demand for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as packaged food, leading to a rise in packaging volumes. In the case of beauty and personal care packaging, the growth was primarily being driven by increased consumer interest in self-care and rising demand across key categories, such as sun protection, make-up, personal care and skin care. This trend is reinforced by climatic and socioeconomic factors, which have increased the importance of personal care within daily routines.
2024 key trends
In a significant advancement for the Colombian beverages industry, co-packer Celema partnered with SIG, a leading player in the global packaging industry, to introduce the SmallBloc 200ml aseptic carton system in the fourth quarter of 2024. This innovative carton is part of SIG’s Small 12 Aseptic platform, designed to offer shelf stable, single-serve packaging solutions for a variety of beverages, including flavoured milk and plant-based dairy alternatives, such as oat, almond or soy drinks. The pack is lightweight, made from renewable paperboard, and offers a compact, convenient pack ideal for on-the-go consumption. Its aseptic design eliminates the need for refrigeration, reducing distribution costs and expanding access to health-focused beverages in remote or infrastructure-limited regions. The launch marks the first deployment of this technology in Colombia, creating new opportunities for both domestic and international companies to scale up ambient, clean-label plant-based drinks in modern, recyclable packaging aligning with global health, sustainability and convenience trends.
Small and on-the-go formats gain ground across food packaging
Flexible packaging continues to be the most popular packaging in the food industry, owing to its cost-effectiveness, lightweight nature and wide applicability. Confectionery is the leading user of flexible packaging, accounting for almost 30% of the total flexible packaging unit volumes used in the food industry. However, in 2024, other plastic jars were recording very dynamic growth in Colombian confectionery, particularly evident in the chewing gum category, in which compact, resealable jars offered both convenience and portability, appealing to on-the-go consumers. The 56g pack size gained strong traction, striking a balance between value and portion control ideal for desk drawers, car cup holders and backpacks
PET bottles remain the dominant format in non-alcoholic beverages
In 2024, PET bottles remained the leading pack type in non-alcoholic drinks due to their lightweight, resealable and portable nature, ideal for on-the-go consumption. The cost-effectiveness of PET, compared with other materials like glass or aluminium, helps make soft drinks more affordable to a wide range of consumers. In addition, PET bottles come in a number of sizes, catering to individual and family needs, while their transparency allows consumers to see the product, enhancing its appeal. Simultaneously, shaped liquid cartons and plastic pouches gained traction in 2024. These pack types appeal to younger consumers and families due to their easy handling, unique shapes and efficient storage. Thin wall plastic containers, although less common for carbonated drinks, were increasingly used for chilled soft drink mixes and flavoured syrups. This diversification in packaging formats allowed companies to better target specific consumer needs, while also aligning with sustainability efforts through recyclable and lighter packaging materials, contributing to the overall rise in packaging volumes
Metal beverages cans gain ground on glass bottles in alcoholic drinks
Despite glass bottles continuing to lead sales of alcoholic drinks packaging, metal beverage cans outpaced the glass bottle performance in both the beer and RTDs categories over the review period, driven by convenience, faster chilling and suitability for outdoor consumption in a warm climate. Their lighter weight and resistance to breakage reduce logistics costs, while the 360-degree printable surface supports creative limited-edition designs. Cans also align strongly with environmental objectives due to their high recyclability. For RTDs, their portability, durability and adaptability for small-batch or seasonal flavours further enhance their appeal, giving metal cans an edge over glass as consumer preferences and brand innovation trends evolve. Furthermore, expansion is also driven by significant investment and increased local production. Canpack’s new “1-billion-can” plant in Colombia expanded domestic manufacturing capacity, reducing reliance on imports, cutting costs and improving supply chain resilience. This allowed breweries and distillers to switch to metal cans more easily and efficiently, supporting the format’s rapid growth.
Sustainability and new labelling rules reshape beauty and personal care packaging
Sustainability has become a priority, with Colombian brands adopting biodegradable, recyclable and monomaterial options in response to increased environmental awareness. In addition, starting in December 2024, all cosmetic products sold in Colombia had to feature Spanish-language labelling from origin, requiring brands to adapt their designs during the production phase without compromising aesthetics or functionality. Krika Cosmetics has incorporated sustainability criteria into its business strategy, with a particular emphasis on packaging design. Over 30% of the brands it distributes utilise biodegradable or recyclable materials as part of their environmental initiatives of the brand. Krika Cosmetics also launched its own skin care line called Kura, which utilises reusable glass containers and recyclable cardboard boxes, reinforcing its commitment to more responsible and sustainable packaging solutions.
Innovation and refills drive home care packaging growth
Brand innovation in convenient and value-added formats, such as concentrated refills, larger pack sizes for cost efficiency and sustainable packaging alternatives contributed to higher unit volumes in home care packaging in 2024. Promotional campaigns and wider product availability in modern retail channels further supported sales, helping to sustain the upward momentum in home care packaging. Flexible aluminium/plastic was the most dynamic packaging type in Colombia’s home care market in 2024, recording strong volume growth due to its combination of durability, light weight and barrier properties that protect product integrity. This pack type was gaining ground in gel air fresheners, in which it is widely used for refill pouches and moisture-resistant formats. Leading brands, including Rey, Blancox, Dersa, Fab, Raid, Ariel or 3D, increasingly adopted flexible aluminium/plastic to offer cost-effective packaging, extend product shelf life and support affordability through larger refill sizes and promotional offers.
Flexible paper/plastic the dominant pack type in dynamic cat treats and mixers category
Flexible paper/plastic is the dominant packaging format in cat treats and mixers in Colombia, with this category seeing strong growth in 2024. This pack type offers a combination of convenience, cost-effectiveness and versatility, making it a popular choice among both manufacturers and consumers. Flexible packaging provides excellent protection for products, ensuring freshness and extending shelf life, which is especially important for treats and mixers. Advances in eco-friendly plastic and paper options are driving demand, as more environmentally conscious consumers seek sustainable packaging without compromising on quality. In addition, the 75g pack size continues to be the preferred choice for the category in Colombia, as it offers a convenient portion size that caters to the daily feeding needs of pet owners, while also providing an affordable option for those looking to purchase smaller quantities without compromising on quality. This pack size aligns well with practicality and cost-effectiveness, ensuring that treats remain fresh and easy to store.
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Overview:
Understand the latest market trends and future growth opportunities for the Packaging industry in Colombia 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 Colombia, 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 Colombia 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 Colombia?
- Which are the major pack types and how are they performing in Colombia?
- 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 Colombia?
- Where is future growth expected to be most significant?
Packaging Industry in Colombia
Packaging in 2024: The big picture
2024 key trends
Small and on-the-go formats gain ground across food packaging
PET bottles remain the dominant format in non-alcoholic beverages
Metal beverages cans gain ground on glass bottles in alcoholic drinks
Sustainability and new labelling rules reshape beauty and personal care packaging
Innovation and refills drive home care packaging growth
Flexible paper/plastic the dominant pack type in dynamic cat treats and mixers category
Regulatory labelling shapes competitive landscape for plant-based dairy
Colombia’s single-use plastics ban drives shift to sustainable packaging
Colombia sets 2030 targets for sustainable single-use packaging
Colombia accelerates PET recycling and rPET adoption
Sustainability trends driving change in pet food packaging
Regulatory pressure drives sustainability shifts in beauty and personal care packaging
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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