Growth in U.S. Packaging Equipment Exports

Arlington, Va.—PMMI reported United States exports of packaging machinery from January to December 2008 were up 9.5 percent from the same period in 2007, totaling $950 million. The data, based on the U.S. Census estimates, also showed U.S. imports reached $2 billion, a slight increase of 0.27 percent.

Double-digit growth for exports to specific emerging markets is indicative of consumer packaged goods companies expanding operations into China (+38.29 percent), India (+44.81 percent), and Latin American countries including Mexico (+24 percent), Brazil (+19 percent), and Venezuela (+25 percent).

“The year-end numbers confirm U.S. packaging machinery manufacturers delivered despite rapidly changing global economic conditions,” said Charles D. Yuska, president and CEO, PMMI. “PMMI members are not only bringing reliable, quality machinery to the market—they are delivering innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions to meet customer needs on a global scale.”

Recognized for the strong value propositions they deliver in the areas of reliability, flexibility, productivity, and sustainability, North American packaging manufacturers play an important role in the process of opening new manufacturing facilities.

From January to December 2008, U.S. exports to Mexico reached $121 million, according to U.S. Census data reports. The increased demand for packaging equipment indicates production of pharmaceutical, food and beverage products in Mexico are poised to maintain growth. For example:
• Mexico is the largest producer of pharmaceuticals in Latin America and the ninth-largest producer worldwide.
• Mexico is the second largest market for soft drink products and the third largest beer producer in the world.
• CANAINCA, the Mexican Chamber of Processed Foods, predicts 4-5 percent growth in the Mexican processed food market for 2008 and 2009.
(Source: www.expopack.com.mx)

“Despite current economic trends, the processed food industry is projected to show continued growth in 2009,” said Jose Martinez, director, Latin America Office, PMMI.

“Mexico continues to be an attractive market for the global packaging industry,” Martinez added. “As the market grows and packaging needs evolve, PMMI’s EXPO PACK México has become the leading venue for Latin American buyers to find packaging solutions. We are looking forward to another successful event in June.”