Breathable Films Market Outlook:
Breathable Films Market size was USD 3.7 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach USD 7.9 billion by the end of 2037, registering a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period, i.e., 2025-2037. In 2025, the industry size of breathable films is estimated at USD 4.1 billion.
The main catalyst for the growth of breathable films is the increase in sustainable packaging regulations. As reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Producer Price Index for plastic packaging film and sheets increased from 176.45 in January 2024 to 182.50 in August 2024. This rise indicates a heightened demand fueled by more stringent rules regarding single-use plastics and a growing consumer preference for recyclable materials. Additionally, government-sponsored clean packaging initiatives, such as grant programs through the EPA’s Sustainable Materials Management, further bolster industry growth by providing financial support for the transition to biodegradable breathable films.
The supply chain for breathable films is significantly dependent on petroleum-based substrates. In 2023, U.S. raw plastic sheeting exports reached a total of $5.52 billion, while imports amounted to $5.84 billion, resulting in a trade deficit. The domestic production capacity has grown with the establishment of assembly plants in the Southeast U.S., which has helped to decrease reliance on imports. The Producer Price Index for unsupported plastic film was recorded at 198.1 in January 2025, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 1.5%. The Consumer Price Index data for packaging materials indicates modest annual growth, which suggests stable pricing for end-use applications. Additionally, initiatives funded by the Department of Energy for Research, Development, and Demonstration are advancing next-generation breathable films, with an allocation of $152 million in 2023 aimed at fostering innovation in sustainable film substrates.
