China’s Gift Box Packaging Manufacturers: Growth Against the Trend, Gradually Capturing European Import Market Share | Industry Insights

mid global economic fluctuations, China’s gift box packaging manufacturers have maintained steady growth, steadily expanding their share in the European import market. This momentum stems from 2025-updated policy alignment, surging market demand, booming cross-border e-commerce, and technological innovation—all strengthening their competitiveness in Europe.

1. Policy Alignment: Green Standards Meet EU Requirements

• China’s 2025 revised 《Express Delivery Interim Regulations》 mandates green, low-carbon, and recyclable packaging, with mandatory national standards for reducing excessive packaging . Local governments continue to subsidize R&D of eco-friendly and custom high-end gift boxes.
• The EU officially released the 《Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)》 in January 2025, requiring mandatory recycled material content and recyclability grading (Grade C+ by 2030), which Chinese manufacturers have proactively met .

2. Market Demand: Driven by Consumption Upgrade

• China’s 2024 per capita disposable income maintained steady growth, boosting demand for personalized, high-quality gift boxes for festivals and corporate gifting.
• Europe’s 2025 gift packaging market is a key driver of global growth, with over 60% of consumers willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly packaging . China’s 2024 gift box exports reached $42 billion, with Europe as a core destination .
• Chinese manufacturers hold a significant global market share, meeting European brands’ (cosmetics, wine, gourmet food) demand for cost-effective, sustainable solutions .

3. E-Commerce Boom: Catalyzing Cross-Border Exports

• China’s 2024 cross-border e-commerce exports hit ¥2.15 trillion (up 16.9%), with gift boxes as core supporting products for cross-border sales .
• Europe’s e-commerce market thrived: Spain’s 2024 online sales reached €95.2 billion (up 13.1%), making it a key hub favoring Chinese manufacturers’ low MOQs, fast customization, and competitive pricing .

4. Technological Innovation: Enhancing Core Competitiveness

• Eco-friendly materials: The market share of degradable gift boxes rose to 32% in 2025, with water-based UV inks widely used (heavy metal content <0.01%) .
• Intelligent production: Automated lines and digital printing cut small-batch order lead times to within 3 days, with a 99%+ qualification rate .
• Personalization: Custom gift boxes account for 45% of the market in 2025, meeting European brands’ unique aesthetic needs .

5. Future Trends: Sustainability & Supply Chain Resilience

• Deepened sustainability: Complying with PPWR’s recycled material requirements and carbon-neutral production goals, with FSC/PEFC certifications widely held .
• Digitalization: AI-assisted design and smart production optimize order response, enabling real-time tracking for European clients .
• Supply chain optimization: Global raw material sourcing and local European warehousing reduce logistics risks and improve delivery speed.

Conclusion

China’s gift box packaging manufacturers leverage 2025-updated policies, rising demand, and technological innovation to capture more European market share. Offering a compelling mix of quality, customization, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness, they are well-positioned to deepen partnerships with European brands as global green and digital trends evolve.