In 2009 South Africans consumed an estimated 2,5 Million tons of packaging in all types - paper, plastic, metal and glass. This figure excludes exports of empty and filled packaging and includes imports into SA. The average real growth rate for the last ten years in the SA Packaging Industry has been approximately 2,5% (Source: BMI Foodpack)

PACSA is under instruction from the Department of Environmental Affairs to complete and implement an Industry Waste Management Plan for the packaging and paper industries. The draft Plan has been forwarded to the DEA for consideration. The Plan covers all papers, such as newsprint and other printing, not only packaging papers, thus the statistics reflected in the Plan cover more than just packaging.

Please note the difference between the statistics shown on this graph and the figures given elsewhere in the text. The graph calculations are based on figures for all papers, including newspapers and other printing paper, and not only paper used for packaging.

The full draft Plan can be downloaded on this website. We welcome your comments. To send your queries or feedback, please click here for the PACSA webform.

Click here to view an in-depth PDF of packaging trends vs the GDP

Packaging is produced using four primary raw materials and these are reflected in size ranking in 2008, as follows:

PACSA is a voluntary industry body. Its members are in three broad categories – Converters, Associates and Affiliates. The Converters represent some 70% of the  revenue generated by the industry. Associates are in effect the major raw material suppliers, and Affiliates are customers and major recyclers. Collectively this body directly employs some 60 000 people in South Africa.

PACSA represents views of its members on National issues with particular focus on environmental matters.

Directors of PACSA