Global Metal Food Packaging Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By Material Type (Aluminum, Steel, Tinplate, Tin-free Steel), By Packaging Type (Flexible Packaging, Rigid Packaging, Semi-Rigid Packaging), By Application (Cans, Containers, Caps and Closures, Foil Packs), By End Use (Beverages, Food Products, Dairy Products, Confectionery), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Metal Food Packaging Market is projected to grow from USD 128.5 Billion in 2025 to USD 181.2 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 4.6% from 2026 through 2035. The global metal food packaging market encompasses a wide array of packaging solutions crafted from metals like aluminum and steel, designed to preserve and protect food products across various applications. This market is driven by several key factors including the increasing demand for convenience foods, the extended shelf life offered by metal packaging, and growing consumer preference for sustainable and recyclable materials. Rising disposable incomes, particularly in developing economies, are fueling the consumption of packaged foods, further bolstering market expansion. Additionally, the inherent barrier properties of metal packaging against light, moisture, and oxygen make it ideal for maintaining food quality and safety, contributing to its widespread adoption. However, market growth faces restraints such as fluctuating raw material prices, particularly for aluminum and steel, which can impact manufacturing costs and profitability. The competitive landscape from alternative packaging materials like plastics and glass also poses a challenge. Nevertheless, significant opportunities exist in the development of innovative, lightweight metal packaging solutions and the expansion into emerging markets with rapidly growing food processing industries. The market is segmented by application, material type, end use, and packaging type, with cans currently dominating the packaging type segment.
Global Metal Food Packaging Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035
2025 - 2035
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Asia Pacific stands out as the dominant region in the global metal food packaging market, driven by its vast population, rapid urbanization, and the flourishing food and beverage industry. The region's economic growth has led to a significant increase in packaged food consumption, particularly ready-to-eat meals and beverages, where metal packaging plays a crucial role in preservation and distribution. Furthermore, Asia Pacific is also projected to be the fastest growing region, propelled by evolving consumer lifestyles, a growing middle class, and the increasing adoption of modern retail formats. Expanding food processing capabilities and rising investments in packaging infrastructure further contribute to its rapid growth. The market's competitive landscape is characterized by both global giants and regional players striving for innovation and market share. Key players like Crown Holdings, Ball Corporation, Ardagh Group, and Silgan Holdings are continuously investing in research and development to introduce advanced packaging solutions that meet evolving consumer demands and regulatory standards.
Strategies employed by key players include capacity expansion, technological upgrades to enhance manufacturing efficiency, and strategic collaborations or acquisitions to strengthen their market presence. For instance, companies are focusing on developing lighter, more sustainable metal packaging options to reduce environmental impact and appeal to eco-conscious consumers. The increasing emphasis on circular economy principles is also prompting manufacturers to invest in improved recycling infrastructure and designs that facilitate easier material recovery. Furthermore, players are diversifying their product portfolios to cater to niche markets and specific food categories, from pet food to specialty beverages. The demand for customized and premium packaging solutions is also gaining traction, offering new avenues for market participants. Continued innovation in coatings, printing technologies, and opening mechanisms is expected to be crucial for sustained growth in this dynamic market.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 128.5 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 181.2 BillionLeading Segment:
Cans (45.2% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
Asia Pacific (41.8% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
4.6%
What is Metal Food Packaging?
Metal food packaging utilizes materials like steel and aluminum to create containers for food and beverages. This packaging method provides robust protection against light, oxygen, and moisture, extending product shelf life and preserving freshness. Its core concepts include material strength, recyclability, and effective barrier properties crucial for food safety and quality. Applications range from beverage cans and food tins to aerosol containers and trays, offering convenience and hygienic storage for a vast array of consumer products. The durability and inertness of metal make it a vital component in modern food preservation and distribution systems.
What are the Trends in Global Metal Food Packaging Market
Sustainable Alloys and Circularity Focus
Smart Packaging for Enhanced Food Safety
Lightweighting and Material Optimization
Personalization and Customization Demands
Advanced Coatings for Extended Shelf Life
Sustainable Alloys and Circularity Focus
The Global Metal Food Packaging Market increasingly emphasizes sustainable alloys and circularity. This trend involves developing and utilizing metal alloys with reduced environmental impact, such as those made from recycled content or with lower embodied energy in their production. The focus extends to enhancing recyclability of metal packaging materials, designing them for easier separation and processing in waste streams. Companies are investing in infrastructure and partnerships to create closed loop systems, ensuring materials are recovered and reused in new packaging or other applications. This minimizes waste, conserves natural resources, and lowers carbon footprints across the entire packaging lifecycle. Consumers and regulators alike are driving this shift toward more environmentally responsible packaging solutions, pushing manufacturers to innovate in material science and embrace circular economy principles.
Smart Packaging for Enhanced Food Safety
Smart packaging revolutionizes food safety within the global metal food packaging market by integrating advanced functionalities directly into containers. These innovative solutions transcend traditional passive barriers, actively monitoring food conditions. Sensors embedded in the metal detect spoilage indicators like gas levels or temperature fluctuations, often triggering visual alerts such as color changes. This real time feedback empowers consumers to make informed decisions about food freshness, reducing waste and preventing consumption of contaminated products.
Additionally, smart packaging incorporates traceability features, allowing for detailed tracking of food items from production to plate. QR codes or RFID tags on metal cans provide access to origin data, processing details and expiration dates, enhancing transparency across the supply chain. This proactive approach significantly boosts confidence in product safety and quality.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Metal Food Packaging Market
Rising Demand for Sustainable and Recyclable Packaging Solutions
Growing Consumer Preference for Convenience and On-the-Go Food
Stringent Regulations and Safety Standards for Food Packaging
Technological Advancements in Metal Can Manufacturing and Design
Expansion of the Organized Retail Sector and E-commerce Platforms
Rising Demand for Sustainable and Recyclable Packaging Solutions
Consumers globally are increasingly prioritizing environmental responsibility, driving a significant shift towards packaging that minimizes ecological impact. This growing awareness translates into a strong preference for sustainable and recyclable options in the food sector. Metal food packaging inherently offers excellent recyclability, often retaining its quality through multiple cycles without degradation. It also provides robust protection, extending shelf life and reducing food waste, a key sustainability benefit. Brands are responding to this heightened consumer and regulatory pressure by incorporating more recyclable materials. The desire for circular economy principles, where materials are reused and recycled endlessly, further strengthens the appeal of metal packaging. This escalating demand for eco conscious choices is a primary force propelling the global metal food packaging market forward as companies seek solutions aligning with a greener future.
Growing Consumer Preference for Convenience and On-the-Go Food
Consumers increasingly seek ready to eat meals, snacks, and beverages that fit busy lifestyles. This preference for grab and go options significantly drives demand for metal food packaging. Metal containers offer crucial benefits like portability, durability, and excellent preservation, extending shelf life for items like canned soups, ready meals, and single serve beverages. The convenience factor for consumers translates directly into a need for packaging that can withstand transport, keep food fresh without refrigeration for extended periods, and be easily opened and consumed anywhere. This trend promotes the use of lightweight yet robust metal cans and bottles by food manufacturers to meet evolving consumer expectations for quick, easy, and dependable food solutions.
Stringent Regulations and Safety Standards for Food Packaging
Stringent regulations and safety standards for food packaging are a crucial driver in the global metal food packaging market. Governments and international bodies worldwide are increasingly implementing stricter rules to protect consumer health and ensure food integrity. These regulations mandate the use of safe, non toxic materials that do not leach harmful substances into food products. Metal packaging, particularly steel and aluminum, is highly favored due to its inherent barrier properties, preventing contamination from external elements like oxygen, light, and moisture. Its non reactive nature and ability to withstand high temperatures during sterilization processes make it compliant with rigorous safety protocols. This commitment to meeting exacting standards for food preservation and consumer well being continuously fuels demand for reliable metal packaging solutions.
Global Metal Food Packaging Market Restraints
Volatile Raw Material Costs and Supply Chain Disruptions
Fluctuating raw material prices pose a significant challenge to the global metal food packaging market. Aluminum and steel, key inputs, experience price volatility due to global economic shifts, geopolitical tensions, and supply demand imbalances. This instability directly impacts manufacturing costs for packaging producers.
Simultaneously, widespread supply chain disruptions exacerbate the issue. Labor shortages, transportation bottlenecks, and port congestion delay delivery of essential materials, increasing lead times and operational expenses. Manufacturers face difficulties in securing consistent and timely supplies, leading to production inefficiencies and potential order backlogs. These combined factors force companies to absorb higher costs or pass them on to consumers, potentially stifling market growth and profitability. The unpredictability makes long term planning and pricing strategies difficult, affecting overall market stability.
Intensifying Competition from Alternative Packaging Materials
The global metal food packaging market faces significant constraint from the intensifying competition posed by alternative packaging materials. This rivalry stems from the continuous innovation and increasing adoption of plastics, glass, paperboard, and flexible packaging solutions. Consumers and manufacturers are increasingly drawn to these alternatives due to their perceived benefits in terms of cost effectiveness, lighter weight, improved convenience, and enhanced sustainability profiles. For example, plastic containers offer design flexibility and often lower production costs, while glass is lauded for its recyclability and premium feel. Paper based options appeal due to biodegradability claims. This competitive pressure forces metal packaging producers to constantly innovate, reduce costs, and highlight their own unique advantages, such as superior barrier protection and recyclability, to maintain market share against a growing array of substitutes.
Global Metal Food Packaging Market Opportunities
Leveraging Metal's Circular Economy for Sustainable Food Packaging Growth
Leveraging metal’s circular economy offers a significant opportunity for sustainable growth in the global food packaging market. Metal is uniquely positioned as an infinitely recyclable material, presenting an unparalleled advantage in meeting rising consumer and regulatory demands for environmentally responsible solutions. By emphasizing robust collection and recycling infrastructure, the industry can establish a truly closed loop system, maximizing recycled content and drastically reducing waste. This focus not only enhances environmental credentials for brands but also drives innovation in lightweight designs and efficient recycling technologies. Embracing these circular principles transforms metal packaging into a cornerstone of sustainability, fostering market expansion especially in regions experiencing rapid growth like Asia Pacific, where eco conscious choices are increasingly valued. This strategy aligns perfectly with future demands, securing long term growth.
Capitalizing on Extended Shelf Life and Convenience Trends in Metal Food Packaging
The global metal food packaging market offers a prime opportunity by leveraging increasing consumer demands for extended shelf life and convenience. Metal packaging excels in providing superior protection against spoilage, light, and oxygen, ensuring food products remain fresh for significantly longer periods. This inherent quality directly supports efforts to reduce food waste and enables broader distribution, crucial for diverse supply chains.
Simultaneously, contemporary lifestyles fuel a robust demand for convenient food options. Metal containers, encompassing cans and innovative flexible solutions, are ideally suited to deliver ready to eat meals, single serving portions, and portable snacks. Features like easy open lids and inherent portability further boost their appeal. Companies innovating in metal packaging design, emphasizing lightweight materials and user friendly formats that seamlessly combine robust preservation with effortless consumption, will secure considerable market share. This trend resonates strongly in rapidly urbanizing areas, where consumers increasingly value both food safety and time saving solutions.
Global Metal Food Packaging Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Application
- •Cans
- •Containers
- •Caps and Closures
- •Foil Packs
By Material Type
- •Aluminum
- •Steel
- •Tinplate
- •Tin-free Steel
By End Use
- •Beverages
- •Food Products
- •Dairy Products
- •Confectionery
By Packaging Type
- •Flexible Packaging
- •Rigid Packaging
- •Semi-Rigid Packaging
Segment Share By Application
Share, By Application, 2025 (%)
- Cans
- Containers
- Caps and Closures
- Foil Packs
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Why is Cans the leading application segment in the Global Metal Food Packaging Market?
Cans command a significant share primarily due to their unparalleled barrier properties, offering extended shelf life for a wide array of products. Their robust nature makes them ideal for carbonated beverages and various processed foods, ensuring product integrity and safety. The efficiency of production and recyclability, often leveraging aluminum and steel, further reinforces their dominance, catering to both consumer convenience and sustainability goals.
How do material types influence segment performance within metal food packaging?
Material types like aluminum and steel significantly dictate market dynamics. Aluminum is favored for its lightweight properties and excellent barrier against light and oxygen, making it ideal for beverage cans. Steel and tinplate, known for their strength and cost-effectiveness, are widely used for food containers requiring robust protection and thermal processing. These material choices are critical in meeting specific product preservation needs and logistics requirements across various end-use applications.
What role does end-use application play in shaping the overall metal food packaging landscape?
End-use applications profoundly influence segment growth, with beverages and food products being primary drivers. The demand for convenient, long-lasting packaging for drinks fuels the cans segment, while diverse food categories like processed fruits, vegetables, and confectionery rely heavily on metal containers for preservation. Each end-use dictates specific requirements for barrier properties, durability, and packaging type, creating a complex interplay that defines the market structure.
What Regulatory and Policy Factors Shape the Global Metal Food Packaging Market
The global metal food packaging market navigates a stringent regulatory and policy environment primarily focused on food safety and environmental sustainability. Food contact materials are subject to rigorous standards set by bodies like the US FDA, EU EFSA, and national authorities worldwide, ensuring consumer health through strict material composition and migration limits to prevent substance transfer into food. Compliance with these diverse yet often harmonized regulations is paramount for market access and consumer trust.
Environmental policies exert significant influence. Extended Producer Responsibility EPR schemes are increasingly prevalent, compelling manufacturers to manage packaging waste through its lifecycle. This drives demand for easily recyclable materials like steel and aluminum. Governments worldwide are implementing ambitious recycling targets, waste reduction mandates, and circular economy initiatives, often favoring packaging solutions with high recyclability rates and established recycling infrastructure. Regulations promoting plastic reduction indirectly bolster metal packaging adoption. Furthermore, traceability requirements and sustainable sourcing policies are gaining prominence, shaping procurement and innovation strategies across the sector.
What New Technologies are Shaping Global Metal Food Packaging Market?
The global metal food packaging market thrives on continuous innovation, driving significant advancements. Lightweighting technologies lead the charge, employing thinner gauge steels and advanced aluminum alloys to drastically reduce material consumption and transportation costs, reinforcing sustainability credentials. Emerging smart packaging solutions are transforming consumer interaction, integrating QR codes and NFC tags for enhanced traceability, real time product information, and expiration alerts, fostering greater transparency and trust.
Focus on advanced internal coatings is paramount. Developments include high performance BPA non intent linings and bio based alternatives, extending product shelf life for sensitive foods while ensuring food safety and preserving recyclability. Furthermore, the industry is exploring improved recloseable features and innovative shaping techniques, enhancing user convenience and brand differentiation. Digital printing for bespoke designs offers unprecedented customization. These innovations collectively bolster market growth, ensuring metal packaging remains competitive, sustainable, and highly functional across diverse food applications.
Global Metal Food Packaging Market Regional Analysis
Global Metal Food Packaging Market
Trends, by Region
Asia-Pacific Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
Asia Pacific · 41.8% share
Asia Pacific stands as the unequivocally dominant region in the global metal food packaging market, commanding a substantial 41.8% market share. This significant lead is propelled by several key factors. Rapid urbanization and a burgeoning middle class across countries like China and India fuel a surge in demand for packaged foods, directly translating to increased need for metal containers. The region's robust manufacturing base provides efficient and cost effective production capabilities for various metal packaging formats. Additionally evolving consumer lifestyles emphasizing convenience and longer shelf life further solidify Asia Pacific's leadership. Stringent food safety regulations and a growing awareness of sustainability also encourage the adoption of recyclable metal packaging solutions, reinforcing the region's top position.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 6.8% CAGR
Asia Pacific stands as the fastest growing region in the global metal food packaging market, projected to expand at a compelling 6.8% CAGR from 2026 to 2035. This robust growth is primarily fueled by rapid urbanization and increasing disposable incomes across developing nations like India and China. A burgeoning middle class is driving demand for convenient, shelf stable food products, where metal packaging offers unparalleled protection and extended shelf life. Furthermore, heightened consumer awareness regarding sustainability and recyclability is favoring metal over plastic alternatives. Government initiatives promoting eco friendly packaging solutions and stringent food safety regulations further amplify this upward trajectory, cementing Asia Pacific's dominance in market expansion.
Top Countries Overview
The U.S. is a significant player in the global metal food packaging market, driven by convenience foods and sustainability trends. Aluminum cans and steel containers are widely used for beverages, processed foods, and pet food. Strict regulations ensure food safety, while advancements in lightweighting and recycling contribute to the market's growth and competitive landscape, with key domestic and international manufacturers operating within the sector.
China dominates the global metal food packaging market, driven by its massive manufacturing capacity and demand for convenient, safe food solutions. It leads in both production and consumption, constantly innovating materials and designs. The market is also shaped by China's strong export capabilities and a growing domestic focus on sustainable and high-quality packaging for a diverse food industry, influencing global trends significantly.
India is a growing market for metal food packaging, driven by increasing disposable incomes and demand for convenience foods. Local manufacturers are expanding while international players eye entry. The market faces challenges from plastic alternatives but benefits from sustainability trends. Innovation in design and materials is key to India's competitive edge in the global market.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitically, supply chain disruptions from localized conflicts and trade disputes impact raw material availability, particularly for aluminum and steel. Shifting allegiances and protectionist policies in key manufacturing regions could lead to increased tariffs or import restrictions, raising production costs for metal packaging producers. Furthermore, rising energy costs driven by geopolitical instability directly inflate manufacturing expenses and transportation costs, ultimately influencing market competitiveness and pricing strategies. Regulatory shifts concerning packaging waste and recycling targets, often influenced by international agreements, also present both challenges and opportunities for the industry.
Macroeconomically, inflation remains a significant factor, driving up input costs for metals and energy, squeezing profit margins for packaging manufacturers. Consumer spending patterns, influenced by economic growth and disposable income levels, directly impact demand for packaged food products. A global economic slowdown could reduce consumer purchasing power, leading to downtrading in food choices and potentially impacting premium metal packaging. Currency fluctuations also play a critical role, affecting the cost of imported raw materials and the competitiveness of exports for metal packaging companies operating across borders.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
Crown Holdings announced a strategic initiative focused on expanding its advanced recycling capabilities for aluminum beverage cans in Europe. This aims to meet growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions and reinforce its commitment to a circular economy.
- July 2024
Ball Corporation completed the acquisition of a regional specialty can manufacturer, bolstering its production capacity for innovative food and aerosol cans in the North American market. This move enhances Ball's portfolio and strengthens its competitive position.
- November 2024
Ardagh Group partnered with a leading food brand to launch a new line of steel food cans featuring advanced barrier coatings, extending product shelf life without compromising taste or nutritional value. This collaboration addresses consumer demand for longer-lasting, high-quality packaged goods.
- February 2025
Silgan Holdings introduced a new lightweight, high-performance aluminum food tray for ready-meal applications, designed to optimize logistics and reduce material usage. This product launch responds to the growing e-commerce food delivery market and sustainability pressures.
- September 2024
Mondi Group entered into a strategic partnership with a sustainable material science company to co-develop innovative metal packaging solutions incorporating recycled content and enhanced traceability features. This collaboration aims to drive eco-friendly advancements across their product offerings.
Key Players Analysis
Key players like Crown Holdings, Ball Corporation, Ardagh Group, and Silgan Holdings are titans in the
global metal food packaging market, driving innovation in sustainable, lightweight, and high barrier solutions.
Their roles span the entire value chain from material production to finished containers. Technologies such
as advanced canning, laser welding, and eco friendly coatings are crucial. Strategic initiatives
include R&D in recyclability, expanding into emerging markets, and collaborations for material
science advancements. Market growth is fueled by consumer demand for convenient and safe food,
sustainability targets, and innovations in packaging design and extended shelf life technologies.
List of Key Companies:
- Greif
- Swire Properties
- Mondi Group
- Sonoco Products
- Crown Holdings
- Ardagh Group
- Daiwa Can Company
- Ball Corporation
- Henry Schein
- Silgan Holdings
- Can Pack
- Platinum Equity
- Toyo Seikan
- Novelis
- Europac
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 128.5 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 181.2 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 4.6% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Packaging Type, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Packaging Type, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Packaging Type, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Packaging Type, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Packaging Type, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Packaging Type, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Metal Food Packaging Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035