Malaysia EVOH Film for Packaging Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecasts 2031

Key Findings

• The Malaysia EVOH Film for Packaging Market is experiencing strong expansion driven by rising demand for high-barrier, lightweight, and sustainable packaging across the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors.
• Increasing consumer preference for extended shelf-life and freshness in packaged goods is boosting adoption of EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol) films due to their exceptional gas and oxygen barrier properties.
• The surge in processed food consumption and e-commerce packaging demand is propelling the need for multilayer films incorporating EVOH for better protection and durability.
• Growing regulatory pressure to reduce single-use plastics is pushing packaging converters toward recyclable and bio-based EVOH film solutions.
• Integration of EVOH films in flexible pouches, vacuum packaging, and thermoformed containers is accelerating due to the material’s compatibility with polyethylene and polypropylene laminates.
• Technological advancements in co-extrusion and multilayer processing are improving transparency, processability, and recyclability of EVOH-based films in Malaysia.
• However, high production costs, moisture sensitivity, and limited availability of EVOH resin suppliers remain challenges for widespread market penetration.

Malaysia EVOH Film for Packaging Market Size and Forecast

The Malaysia EVOH Film for Packaging Market is projected to grow from USD 1.8 billion in 2025 to USD 3.7 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 12.6% during the forecast period. The growth is attributed to the increasing utilization of EVOH films in food packaging applications requiring superior oxygen barriers, such as meat, dairy, ready-to-eat meals, and beverages. In Malaysia, packaging manufacturers are investing in multilayer film extrusion technologies to enhance material strength, clarity, and recyclability. Furthermore, rising demand for sustainable packaging alternatives and regulatory mandates restricting plastic waste are driving innovation in EVOH resin modification and blending. The growing use of EVOH films in pharmaceutical blister packaging and personal care products further reinforces the market’s steady expansion through 2031.

Introduction

EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol) is a high-performance thermoplastic known for its exceptional barrier properties against oxygen, carbon dioxide, and volatile organic compounds. When incorporated into multilayer packaging films, EVOH significantly enhances product preservation and extends shelf life without altering flavor or quality. In Malaysia, the shift toward flexible packaging formats pouches, bags, wraps, and trays is intensifying EVOH adoption due to its lightweight, printable, and transparent properties. Its compatibility with polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and nylon allows manufacturers to produce cost-efficient and durable multilayer packaging structures. EVOH’s ability to maintain performance even at minimal thickness makes it ideal for sustainable packaging initiatives aiming to reduce material usage and carbon footprint.

Future Outlook

By 2031, the Malaysia EVOH Film for Packaging Market will evolve as a cornerstone of sustainable and high-barrier flexible packaging solutions. Continuous research into bio-based EVOH resins and recyclable multilayer combinations will address environmental concerns and enhance market acceptance. The integration of smart packaging technologies such as freshness indicators and anti-tamper coatings within EVOH films will redefine product safety and traceability. Moreover, the packaging industry’s transition toward circular economy models will accelerate the development of mono-material structures with integrated EVOH barriers. With increasing investment from food, healthcare, and personal care industries, Malaysia is expected to become a key regional hub for advanced high-barrier film manufacturing and export by the end of the forecast period.

Malaysia EVOH Film for Packaging Market Trends

• Rising Demand for High-Barrier Packaging in Food and Beverage Sector
  The food and beverage industry in Malaysia is the largest consumer of EVOH films, driven by the growing demand for products with extended shelf life and freshness. EVOH films provide excellent oxygen and aroma barriers, making them ideal for packaging perishable items like meat, cheese, sauces, and baby food. The ability of EVOH films to prevent oxidation and microbial spoilage extends product preservation without reliance on preservatives. Moreover, the rising consumption of ready-to-eat meals and frozen foods in Malaysia has intensified the need for packaging that combines flexibility, barrier integrity, and lightweight characteristics. This trend is shaping the market toward advanced multilayer EVOH structures for both rigid and flexible packaging.

• Transition Toward Sustainable and Recyclable Multilayer Films
  Growing environmental regulations and consumer awareness in Malaysia are driving packaging manufacturers to adopt recyclable and eco-friendly materials. EVOH films, when combined with recyclable polyolefins like PE or PP, provide a high-barrier yet sustainable packaging solution. The development of mono-material EVOH films compatible with existing recycling streams is gaining momentum. Packaging converters are also investing in EVOH blends derived from renewable feedstocks to align with circular economy goals. This sustainability shift is reshaping material innovation strategies, focusing on reducing carbon emissions and improving film recyclability without compromising performance.

• Expansion of EVOH Use in Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Packaging
  The healthcare industry in Malaysia is increasingly adopting EVOH films for packaging applications that require high barrier protection against moisture and oxygen. Pharmaceutical blister packs, sterile medical pouches, and diagnostic reagent packaging benefit from EVOH’s chemical resistance and sealing capability. EVOH films ensure extended stability of sensitive drugs and maintain sterility in long-term storage. As biologics and temperature-sensitive therapeutics gain prominence, the demand for precision barrier packaging is rising, positioning EVOH as a preferred choice for next-generation healthcare packaging solutions.

• Technological Advancements in Multilayer Film Co-Extrusion
  Innovation in multilayer co-extrusion and lamination processes is significantly improving EVOH film performance. Manufacturers in Malaysia are developing thinner, more transparent films with enhanced mechanical strength and flexibility. The introduction of five- and seven-layer co-extrusion lines enables better integration of EVOH with diverse polymers, achieving superior gas barriers while reducing material cost. Advanced extrusion systems are also enabling uniform dispersion of EVOH layers, improving clarity and sealing performance. These technological advancements are expanding the application scope of EVOH films beyond traditional food packaging into industrial and electronic uses.

• Growth of Smart Packaging and Functional EVOH Films
  The rise of smart packaging solutions in Malaysia featuring sensors, QR codes, and freshness indicators is complementing EVOH film development. Functionalized EVOH films are being designed with antimicrobial coatings, UV protection layers, and easy-peel seals. These films not only preserve product quality but also enhance consumer engagement and traceability. Smart EVOH packaging solutions are particularly gaining traction in premium food and pharmaceutical products, where safety and authenticity are critical. The convergence of smart packaging technologies with EVOH’s barrier properties marks a pivotal shift in next-generation packaging innovation.

Market Growth Drivers

• Surging Demand for Processed and Packaged Foods
  The ongoing urbanization and lifestyle changes in Malaysia are increasing consumption of processed, frozen, and convenience foods. Manufacturers require packaging that offers superior oxygen and moisture resistance to ensure freshness during transportation and storage. EVOH films meet these needs by providing high-barrier protection that prevents spoilage and extends shelf life. The growing expansion of retail chains and e-commerce platforms is further amplifying the requirement for durable, flexible packaging solutions incorporating EVOH.

• Stringent Food Safety and Packaging Regulations
  Governments and regulatory authorities in Malaysia are enforcing stricter packaging standards to ensure food safety, reduce contamination, and enhance traceability. EVOH’s inert chemical composition and superior barrier properties comply with global food safety norms such as FDA and EFSA standards. These regulations are driving adoption of EVOH films in food packaging applications, particularly in vacuum-sealed, MAP (modified atmosphere packaging), and retort pouches where product integrity is paramount.

• Advancement in Packaging Machinery and Processing Technology
  Technological progress in packaging machinery such as advanced lamination, extrusion, and thermoforming systems is enabling seamless integration of EVOH films in high-speed production lines. In Malaysia, packaging companies are adopting automated systems capable of handling multilayer film structures with precise thickness control. The enhanced processability and mechanical strength of new-generation EVOH films are reducing downtime and waste, thereby improving production efficiency and cost competitiveness.

• Rising Focus on Reducing Food Waste and Carbon Footprint
  Sustainability initiatives across Malaysia emphasize the reduction of food waste and carbon emissions through efficient packaging design. EVOH films contribute to this goal by extending product shelf life and minimizing spoilage-related losses. Additionally, the use of thinner EVOH layers reduces overall material consumption without compromising barrier performance. The carbon savings achieved through lightweight EVOH-based packaging make it a preferred choice for environmentally conscious manufacturers.

• Increased Adoption in Non-Food Applications
  Beyond food packaging, EVOH films are gaining traction in non-food sectors such as cosmetics, agricultural chemicals, and industrial packaging. The films protect volatile substances from oxidation and maintain product stability over long periods. In Malaysia, cosmetic brands are leveraging EVOH films for air-sensitive formulations, while chemical producers use them for storing reactive or hazardous compounds. This diversification of application areas is expanding the total addressable market for EVOH films.

• Collaborations and Investments in Sustainable Material R&D
  Major packaging and polymer companies in Malaysia are collaborating to develop next-generation recyclable EVOH films. Partnerships between resin producers and packaging converters are accelerating innovations in bio-based EVOH and improved blending formulations. These joint ventures are also facilitating large-scale investments in co-extrusion technology and eco-friendly polymer development, strengthening the region’s leadership in sustainable packaging materials.

Challenges in the Market

• High Production and Processing Costs
  The manufacturing of EVOH films involves sophisticated extrusion and lamination processes requiring specialized equipment and high-quality resins. In Malaysia, the higher cost of EVOH resin compared to conventional polymers such as PE or PET increases overall production expenses. Additionally, precise layer control and co-extrusion technology demand skilled operators and maintenance, leading to elevated operational costs that limit adoption among small converters.

• Moisture Sensitivity and Barrier Performance Degradation
  EVOH’s oxygen barrier performance significantly decreases when exposed to high humidity environments. In Malaysia’s humid regions, maintaining barrier integrity becomes a technical challenge. Packaging manufacturers must incorporate additional moisture-resistant layers or coatings to protect EVOH from degradation, which increases material complexity and cost. Overcoming this challenge requires ongoing R&D into moisture-resistant EVOH formulations or hybrid polymer blends.

• Limited Recycling Infrastructure and Complex Multilayer Structures
  Although EVOH-based films are recyclable when properly processed, their multilayer structure often complicates recycling due to mixed material compositions. In Malaysia, the lack of advanced recycling infrastructure for multilayer plastics limits recovery and reuse potential. This issue is further compounded by inconsistent labeling and segregation practices, leading to environmental concerns. Developing recyclable mono-material EVOH solutions and investing in mechanical recycling technology are critical to addressing this barrier.

• Competition from Alternative Barrier Materials
  EVOH faces growing competition from other high-barrier materials such as PVDC (polyvinylidene chloride), PVOH (polyvinyl alcohol), and aluminum foil laminates. In Malaysia, these alternatives are often preferred for specific applications due to their lower cost or superior moisture resistance. To remain competitive, EVOH film manufacturers must focus on value-added features such as sustainability, process efficiency, and product differentiation.

• Dependence on Limited Number of Resin Suppliers
  The global EVOH supply chain is concentrated among a few major resin producers, leading to pricing volatility and supply constraints. In Malaysia, packaging manufacturers often face procurement challenges during periods of high demand or raw material shortages. The dependence on a limited number of suppliers also restricts innovation diversity, emphasizing the need for regional resin production capabilities.

• Regulatory and Standardization Challenges
  The absence of uniform recycling and labeling standards for multilayer packaging materials poses compliance challenges. In Malaysia, evolving environmental regulations and inconsistencies in packaging classification systems create uncertainty for manufacturers. Aligning EVOH film design with emerging global sustainability standards will be crucial for maintaining competitiveness and ensuring regulatory compliance across export markets.

Malaysia EVOH Film for Packaging Market Segmentation

By Type

• Blown EVOH Films

• Cast EVOH Films

By Application

• Food and Beverage Packaging

• Pharmaceutical and Medical Packaging

• Personal Care and Cosmetics

• Industrial and Chemical Packaging

By Structure

• Monolayer Films

• Multilayer Co-Extruded Films

By End-Use Industry

• Food & Beverages

• Healthcare

• Cosmetics & Personal Care

• Industrial & Chemical

• Agriculture

By Distribution Channel

• Direct Sales

• Distributors

• Online Platforms

Leading Key Players

• Kuraray Co., Ltd.

• Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corporation

• Nippon Gohsei (SoarnoL)

• Amcor Plc

• Sealed Air Corporation

• Coveris Holdings S.A.

• UBE Industries Ltd.

• Toyobo Co., Ltd.

• Mondi Group

• Schur Flexibles Holding GmbH

Recent Developments

• Kuraray Co., Ltd. launched a new recyclable EVOH resin line in Malaysia aimed at enhancing moisture resistance for flexible packaging.

• Amcor Plc partnered with local converters in Malaysia to develop lightweight multilayer EVOH films compatible with circular recycling systems.

• Mitsubishi Chemical Group expanded its EVOH film extrusion capacity in Malaysia to meet rising demand from the food packaging industry.

• Sealed Air Corporation introduced high-barrier, bio-based EVOH pouches designed for fresh produce and liquid packaging in Malaysia.

• Toyobo Co., Ltd. announced collaboration with leading food manufacturers in Malaysia to develop thermoformable EVOH films with improved seal integrity.

This Market Report Will Answer the Following Questions

1. What is the projected market size and growth rate of the Malaysia EVOH Film for Packaging Market by 2031?

2. Which technological innovations are enhancing the performance and recyclability of EVOH films?

3. What are the key growth drivers influencing EVOH film adoption across food, healthcare, and cosmetics industries?

4. What challenges hinder large-scale production and recycling of EVOH-based packaging?

5. Who are the leading global and regional players shaping the future of the EVOH packaging market in Malaysia?