Airlaid Nonwoven Paper Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Latex-bonded Airlaid Paper, Thermal-bonded Airlaid Paper, Multi-bonded Airlaid Paper), By Applications Covered (Feminine Hygiene, Consumer Wipes, Adult Incontinence, Industrial Wipes, Tabletop and Napkins, Food Pads, Other), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Airlaid Nonwoven Paper Market Size

The airlaid nonwoven paper market size reached USD 1,650.62 million in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 1,716.65 million in 2025, reaching USD 2,353.17 million by 2033, driven by increasing demand in hygiene, packaging, and industrial applications over the forecast period.

The U.S. airlaid nonwoven paper market dominates North America, contributing 70% of regional demand. Growth is driven by 60% usage in hygiene products, 25% in industrial wipes, and rising demand for biodegradable packaging, supported by 40% investment in sustainable manufacturing technologies.

The airlaid nonwoven paper market is growing rapidly, with an estimated 65% of its demand coming from hygiene products such as feminine hygiene, adult incontinence, and baby wipes. Airlaid nonwoven paper is known for its 50% higher absorption capacity compared to conventional tissues, making it ideal for personal care and industrial applications. With the increasing demand for sustainable and biodegradable materials, 40% of manufacturers are now focusing on plant-based fiber alternatives. The market is also witnessing a rise in usage across packaging and medical applications, driving further expansion.

Airlaid Nonwoven Paper Market Trends

The airlaid nonwoven paper market is shifting toward 70% eco-friendly product innovations, driven by regulations promoting sustainability. In 2022, global consumption reached approximately 574,800 tonnes, expected to grow by 34% to 768,800 tonnes by 2027. Supply is forecasted to reach 94% utilization globally, indicating tightening availability and increased production efforts. Major industry players have expanded capacity, with investments rising by 45% in Europe and North America. About 60% of new developments focus on plant-based absorbent hygiene products, while 30% target applications in food packaging, insulation, and molded fiber products. The trend towards cellulose-based bottle caps and biodegradable solutions is gaining 25% market interest.

Airlaid Nonwoven Paper Market Dynamics

The airlaid nonwoven paper market is evolving due to rising consumer preferences for sustainable, high-absorbency materials. Approximately 55% of its demand comes from hygiene applications, while 30% is driven by industrial and food packaging sectors. The market is witnessing increased investments in eco-friendly solutions, with 50% of manufacturers integrating recycled and biodegradable fibers. With the push toward sustainability, regulatory bodies are imposing stricter guidelines, impacting 40% of global suppliers. Additionally, the market is seeing increased R&D investment, with nearly 35% of companies focusing on innovation in fiber composition and material durability.

Drivers of Market Growth

"Expansion in Hygiene and Personal Care Applications"

The demand for airlaid nonwoven paper in hygiene products has surged, with 70% of baby wipes and 65% of feminine hygiene products utilizing airlaid materials. The increasing aging population is fueling a 40% rise in adult incontinence product usage. Innovations in ultra-thin, high-absorbency materials have led to 25% more product adoption in premium hygiene brands. Additionally, sustainable packaging initiatives are pushing manufacturers to replace plastic-based wipes, resulting in a 50% shift toward biodegradable alternatives.

Market Restraints

"Supply Chain Disruptions and Raw Material Shortages"

Raw material shortages, particularly in pulp and synthetic fibers, have impacted 45% of airlaid nonwoven manufacturers, leading to production delays. Rising energy costs have increased operational expenses by 30%, affecting profitability. Supply chain disruptions, including transportation bottlenecks, have extended delivery times by 20%, impacting global distribution. The limited availability of specialty fibers has caused price fluctuations, with costs rising by 35% in key markets. Additionally, regulatory restrictions on chemical treatments used in airlaid processing are limiting 25% of current manufacturing capabilities.

Market Opportunities

"Growth in Sustainable and Biodegradable Product Innovations"

With increasing environmental concerns, 60% of consumers now prefer biodegradable hygiene products. Major manufacturers are investing in plant-based fibers, with a 55% increase in production capacity for eco-friendly airlaid nonwovens. The push for plastic-free alternatives has led to a 40% rise in demand for biodegradable wet wipes and packaging solutions. New product development in compostable medical and food-grade nonwovens is expected to expand by 35% in the next five years. Government incentives for sustainable material development have encouraged 30% more companies to adopt green manufacturing processes.

Market Challenges

"High Production Costs and Limited Recycling Infrastructure"

The high cost of advanced airlaid nonwoven production has increased overall manufacturing expenses by 50%, limiting small-scale industry participation. Energy-intensive production processes contribute to 40% of operational costs, making profitability challenging. Limited recycling infrastructure restricts the circular economy potential, with only 30% of used nonwoven materials being effectively repurposed. The absence of standardized sustainability regulations across regions has caused 25% of manufacturers to struggle with compliance issues. Additionally, innovation in biodegradable airlaid nonwovens remains costly, with 35% of R&D budgets allocated to developing commercially viable solutions.

Segmentation Analysis

The airlaid nonwoven paper market is categorized based on type and application, with 45% of the demand coming from hygiene products and 30% from industrial applications. The market is witnessing a shift toward sustainable and biodegradable alternatives, with 50% of new product innovations focusing on plant-based fibers. The demand for premium airlaid nonwovens with higher absorbency and durability is increasing, particularly in hygiene and food-related applications, driving 40% growth in product customization.

By Type

• Latex-bonded Airlaid Paper: Latex-bonded airlaid paper holds approximately 35% of the market due to its high tensile strength and softness. This type is widely used in premium hygiene products, including 55% of feminine hygiene pads and 40% of baby wipes. The growing preference for ultra-thin and highly absorbent materials has led to a 30% increase in demand for latex-bonded variants. However, environmental concerns over synthetic latex components have encouraged manufacturers to develop biodegradable alternatives, reducing the segment’s reliance on petroleum-based bonding agents.

• Thermal-bonded Airlaid Paper: Thermal-bonded airlaid paper accounts for nearly 25% of the market, benefiting from its chemical-free bonding process. The segment is witnessing a 40% increase in adoption due to its recyclability and eco-friendly composition. Used in applications such as 50% of disposable medical wipes and 35% of industrial absorbent pads, this type offers superior liquid retention without compromising softness. However, limited flexibility compared to latex-bonded variants has slowed penetration in certain hygiene applications, restricting its growth to 20% in the hygiene sector.

• Multi-bonded Airlaid Paper: Multi-bonded airlaid paper dominates 40% of the market, combining latex and thermal bonding to enhance strength and flexibility. This segment has seen a 45% increase in demand due to its versatility in food packaging, tabletop products, and medical applications. The segment’s key advantage is its balance of absorbency and durability, making it suitable for 60% of industrial and food-grade nonwoven applications. Innovations in biodegradable adhesives have driven 35% growth in sustainable multi-bonded variants, reducing environmental impact and enhancing product appeal.

By Application

• Feminine Hygiene: Feminine hygiene applications account for 30% of the airlaid nonwoven market, with 70% of premium sanitary napkins utilizing airlaid paper for superior absorbency and comfort. The shift toward biodegradable materials has driven 40% of manufacturers to develop plant-based airlaid variants.

• Consumer Wipes; Consumer wipes represent 20% of the market, with 55% of wet wipes now produced using airlaid nonwoven materials. Rising concerns over plastic-based wipes have led to a 35% surge in demand for biodegradable alternatives, particularly in baby and skincare wipes.

• Adult Incontinence: Adult incontinence products make up 25% of the market, with 65% of premium absorbent pads incorporating airlaid nonwovens. The aging population has increased demand by 40%, while innovations in odor control and ultra-thin designs have expanded product adoption.

• Industrial Wipes: Industrial wipes constitute 15% of total market demand, with 50% of oil-absorbent and cleaning wipes relying on airlaid technology. The need for high-strength, lint-free materials has driven 30% growth in specialty industrial nonwovens.

• Tabletop and Napkins: Tabletop and napkin applications contribute 10% to market consumption, with 60% of premium disposable napkins featuring airlaid nonwoven paper. Restaurants and catering services are shifting toward eco-friendly napkin solutions, driving 25% growth in this segment.

• Food Pads: Food pads hold 12% of market share, with 80% of meat and poultry packaging pads utilizing airlaid nonwoven materials for superior moisture absorption. The demand for antibacterial and compostable food pads has risen by 35% to meet hygiene standards.

• Other Applications: Other applications, including medical dressings and filtration products, account for 8% of the market. Growth in healthcare and specialty filtration has driven 20% demand expansion, with a focus on high-absorbency and antimicrobial airlaid solutions.

Airlaid Nonwoven Paper Regional Outlook

The airlaid nonwoven paper market exhibits significant regional variations, with 35% of demand coming from North America, 30% from Europe, and 25% from Asia-Pacific, while the Middle East & Africa contribute 10%. Growth across all regions is driven by rising hygiene awareness, sustainability initiatives, and expanding industrial applications. The shift toward biodegradable materials has resulted in a 40% increase in demand across developed markets, while emerging regions are witnessing a 30% rise in affordability-driven consumption.

North America

North America holds 35% of the airlaid nonwoven paper market, with the U.S. accounting for 70% of regional demand. The hygiene sector dominates, with 60% of airlaid materials used in feminine hygiene, baby wipes, and adult incontinence products. The U.S. and Canada have seen a 50% increase in demand for biodegradable and plant-based alternatives. Additionally, 40% of industrial nonwoven applications, including oil-absorbent wipes and food packaging, are growing rapidly due to sustainability regulations. Key manufacturers in the region have expanded production capacities by 25% to meet rising demand.

Europe

Europe represents 30% of global market demand, with Germany, France, and the U.K. leading in consumption. The EU's strict environmental policies have driven 45% of the market toward sustainable alternatives. The hygiene sector accounts for 55% of regional demand, while industrial and medical applications have expanded by 35%. The region has witnessed a 30% increase in investments for bio-based airlaid production, with key players focusing on plastic-free wet wipes. Additionally, the rise in food packaging applications has led to a 20% growth in demand for moisture-absorbent airlaid pads.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific holds 25% of the market share, with China, Japan, and India driving regional growth. China accounts for 50% of the demand, with 60% of airlaid nonwoven materials used in hygiene and packaging applications. The region has witnessed a 40% increase in the production of cost-effective airlaid solutions due to growing middle-class disposable income. Japan leads in high-performance absorbent materials, contributing to 35% of premium airlaid hygiene products. India is seeing a 30% rise in demand for affordable feminine hygiene and baby care products, fueling overall market expansion.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa contribute 10% of the global airlaid nonwoven paper market, with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and South Africa being key consumers. Hygiene applications dominate, accounting for 65% of the market demand, driven by increasing awareness and government initiatives. The region has seen a 25% rise in imports of airlaid materials due to limited local manufacturing capacity. Industrial and food packaging applications are growing at a 20% rate, with demand for moisture-absorbent pads in the food industry increasing. Sustainable nonwoven solutions are gaining traction, with 15% of manufacturers shifting toward biodegradable options.

List of Key Airlaid Nonwoven Paper Market Companies Profiled

• Glatfelter
• Georgia-Pacific
• McAirlaid’s
• Duni AB
• EAM Corporation (Domtar)
• Fitesa
• Oji Kinocloth
• Kinsei Seishi
• M&J Airlaid Products (Mölnlycke)
• Main S.p.A.
• SharpCell
• National Nonwovens
• China Silk (Shanghai) New Material Technology
• Qiaohong New Materials
• Ningbo Qixing Nonwoven
• Elite Paper

Top Companies with Highest Market Share

• Glatfelter – 28% Market Share: Glatfelter holds the largest share in the airlaid nonwoven paper market at 28%, driven by its extensive global presence and strong production capabilities. The company has established itself as a key supplier in North America and Europe, with 70% of its sales coming from these regions. Glatfelter operates five major airlaid production facilities in the U.S., Canada, Germany, and France, ensuring a steady supply chain for its hygiene, tabletop, and industrial applications.The company has focused on sustainability by integrating 40% recycled and biodegradable fibers into its airlaid production. Its investment in advanced bonding technologies has improved absorbency by 30%, making its products a preferred choice for high-performance hygiene and medical applications. In 2023, Glatfelter expanded its capacity by 15%, addressing the rising demand for eco-friendly materials. The company’s strategic partnerships with major hygiene brands account for 50% of its airlaid sales, solidifying its leadership in the market.

• Georgia-Pacific – 22% Market Share: Georgia-Pacific ranks as the second-largest player in the airlaid nonwoven paper market, holding a 22% market share. The company has a strong foothold in hygiene and packaging applications, supplying 60% of its airlaid materials to manufacturers of feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, and incontinence solutions. With multiple manufacturing facilities across the U.S. and Europe, Georgia-Pacific has optimized its supply chain, reducing lead times by 25% compared to competitors.The company has focused on sustainable packaging, with 30% of its new product lines featuring compostable airlaid materials. Georgia-Pacific's R&D investment increased by 20% in 2023 to develop ultra-thin, highly absorbent airlaid solutions, enhancing product performance in hygiene and food packaging applications. The company also launched biodegradable industrial wipes, leading to a 35% rise in demand from the industrial and medical sectors.Both Glatfelter and Georgia-Pacific continue to lead the market by investing in sustainability, innovation, and expanding production capacity to meet the growing global demand for high-performance airlaid nonwoven paper products.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The airlaid nonwoven paper market is attracting significant investments, with 40% of funding directed toward sustainability and biodegradable material innovations. Major companies are expanding production facilities, with 35% of new investments focused on capacity enhancement in North America and Europe. In Asia-Pacific, 30% of investments target cost-effective, high-absorbency airlaid solutions to meet rising demand in hygiene and packaging applications.

Mergers and acquisitions have increased by 25%, with key players such as Domtar and Fitesa acquiring smaller manufacturers to strengthen their market position. Companies have also allocated 45% of their R&D budgets to developing plant-based fibers and plastic-free bonding technologies. The introduction of smart absorbent materials in medical and hygiene applications has led to a 20% growth in specialized product lines.Government incentives promoting sustainable manufacturing have driven a 30% rise in eco-friendly airlaid production. Meanwhile, automation in airlaid nonwoven manufacturing has improved efficiency by 35%, reducing waste and increasing production output. The growing adoption of airlaid nonwoven paper in food packaging, industrial wipes, and medical applications presents a 25% opportunity for manufacturers to diversify product portfolios.

New Product Development

The airlaid nonwoven paper market has seen a 40% increase in product innovations, focusing on sustainability and performance enhancements. Manufacturers have introduced biodegradable and compostable airlaid products, leading to a 25% rise in demand for eco-friendly hygiene solutions. In food packaging, airlaid nonwoven paper usage has grown by 15%, driven by its superior absorbency. Advanced bonding techniques have improved softness and absorption, resulting in a 30% increase in premium hygiene applications. The development of multi-bonded airlaid paper has led to a 20% boost in adoption across various industries, reflecting the market's shift toward high-performance and sustainable solutions.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in the Airlaid Nonwoven Paper Market 

• Glatfelter's Capacity Expansion – In 2023, Glatfelter increased production capacity by 15% to meet rising demand for airlaid materials in hygiene and tabletop applications.

• Duni AB's Sustainable Product Line – In 2024, Duni AB launched compostable airlaid napkins, reducing its carbon footprint by 10% compared to traditional napkins.

• McAirlaid's Investment in R&D – McAirlaid’s boosted R&D investments by 20% in 2023 to develop ultra-thin airlaid materials for medical applications, improving product efficiency.

• EAM Corporation’s Biodegradable Initiative – In 2024, EAM Corporation introduced a biodegradable airlaid absorbent core, resulting in a 25% increase in demand for eco-friendly hygiene products.

• Fitesa’s Entry into the Airlaid Market – In 2023, Fitesa acquired a production facility, adding 10,000 tons of annual capacity, expanding its market presence by 18%.

Report Coverage of the Airlaid Nonwoven Paper Market

Comprehensive market reports cover 100% of market dynamics, including drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges. Segmentation data indicates 35% of market demand comes from latex-bonded airlaid paper, 25% from thermal-bonded, and 40% from multi-bonded variants. Application-wise, hygiene products contribute 45% of demand, followed by industrial wipes at 20%, food pads at 12%, and tabletop applications at 10%.

Regionally, North America holds 35% of the market, with Europe at 30%, Asia-Pacific at 25%, and the Middle East & Africa at 10%. Key players like Glatfelter and Georgia-Pacific account for a combined 50% of total market share. Investment trends highlight a 30% increase in funding for sustainable airlaid production, while technological advancements have enhanced product efficiency by 40%. Market forecasts up to 2029 suggest a 25% rise in demand for biodegradable airlaid solutions, shaping the future landscape of the industry.