Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China

Rotogravure Printing Machine in China Trends and Forecast

The future of the rotogravure printing machine market in China looks promising with opportunities in the packaging, commercial, and publication markets. The global rotogravure printing machine market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 3.6% from 2025 to 2031. The rotogravure printing machine market in China is also forecasted to witness strong growth over the forecast period. The major drivers for this market are the increasing need for flexible packaging, the growing interest in printed packaging, and the rising demand for printing of superior quality.

• Lucintel forecasts that, within the substrate type category, plastic will remain the largest segment over the forecast period due to its resilience to moisture and robustness.
• Within the end use category, packaging is expected to witness the highest growth due to its ability to print on the substrate‘s two sides.

Emerging Trends in the Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China

China’s rotogravure printing machine market is experiencing rapid shifts driven by industrial upgrades, stricter environmental standards, and increased global demand for Chinese packaging exports. The sector is evolving to serve not only mass production but also smart, agile, and green manufacturing goals outlined in national industrial strategies. As China transitions toward high-quality manufacturing, domestic players are innovating with smart automation, cleaner processes, and value-added capabilities. The following trends illustrate how Chinese manufacturers are enhancing machine intelligence, production flexibility, and sustainability to meet the dynamic needs of the global and domestic packaging industries.

• Integration of Centralized Data Platforms: Chinese manufacturers are embedding centralized data platforms into rotogravure systems to unify performance monitoring, maintenance scheduling, and job planning. These platforms integrate cloud connectivity and IoT sensors to offer holistic insights across multiple production lines. With China‘s focus on smart factories, this trend allows for predictive maintenance, energy usage analysis, and quality benchmarking. It improves overall efficiency, aligns with Industry 4.0 objectives, and enhances decision-making across printing operations in large-scale packaging plants.
• Emergence of High-Speed Compact Machines for SMEs: The growing demand from small and mid-sized enterprises has led to the development of compact, high-speed gravure machines tailored for limited-space facilities. These machines are cost-efficient, energy-optimized, and easier to install. They enable SMEs to access premium print quality without heavy infrastructure upgrades. This trend is boosting the competitiveness of regional packaging firms across China‘s inland provinces, supporting balanced industrial growth beyond coastal manufacturing zones.
• Advanced Cooling and Drying Systems Integration: To improve efficiency and expand substrate compatibility, Chinese rotogravure machines are being equipped with modular drying and contactless cooling systems. These upgrades enable high-speed operations without compromising print fidelity on delicate films. They are particularly effective in applications like food-grade packaging and shrink sleeves. The adoption of such technology supports broader adoption of gravure in diversified end-use sectors with exacting material specifications.
• Rise of Dual-Function Packaging Lines: Chinese converters are investing in rotogravure presses with integrated pouch-making or die-cutting modules. These dual-function systems eliminate the need for separate converting stages, reducing floor space, energy use, and lead times. They are particularly appealing to e-commerce and personal care packaging providers seeking rapid production of customized formats. This reflects a shift toward end-to-end automation and agile manufacturing capabilities in China’s evolving packaging industry.
• Increased Use of Non-Toluene Inks and Solvent-Less Formulations: Due to rising regulatory pressure and export standards, there is growing use of non-toluene and solvent-less ink formulations in Chinese rotogravure processes. These inks reduce air pollutants, improve worker safety, and enhance compliance with EU and US packaging regulations. Domestic ink producers are scaling production of compliant inks, supporting widespread industry adoption. This shift supports green manufacturing targets under China‘s national pollution control strategies.

China’s rotogravure printing machine market is undergoing a sophisticated transformation with trends emphasizing smart data use, small-scale innovation, and sustainable processes. By integrating dual-function presses, adopting green inks, and developing intelligent platforms, China is building a modernized printing sector aligned with global standards and national development goals. These trends are positioning the country not just as a volume producer, but as a competitive hub for high-quality, environmentally responsible packaging solutions.

Recent Developments in the Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China

Recent developments in China’s rotogravure printing machine market reflect the country’s ambition to lead in precision packaging technologies while complying with environmental mandates. As both domestic and global packaging demands grow more complex, Chinese companies are upgrading machine capabilities to boost speed, accuracy, and process control. The focus has shifted from quantity to smart quality, with rapid innovations in automation, energy use, and functional packaging systems. The following developments highlight how Chinese manufacturers are optimizing production and sustainability in the evolving rotogravure landscape.

• Deployment of Gravure Lines with Adaptive Ink Viscosity Control: Chinese manufacturers have launched presses with real-time viscosity control systems that adjust ink flow based on substrate type and humidity levels. This technology ensures consistent print quality across changing production environments and reduces manual adjustments. It is particularly useful for high-volume packaging plants in varying climates. The system supports tighter quality control, cuts rework costs, and boosts overall production reliability.
• Rollout of High-Precision Gravure Presses for Pharma and Electronics Packaging: Chinese OEMs are producing gravure machines designed for ultra-fine printing required in pharmaceuticals and consumer electronics packaging. These machines offer high registration accuracy, tension control, and defect detection. With growing demand for traceability and anti-counterfeit elements, such presses support China‘s expansion into high-value, sensitive packaging markets. They reflect a strategic shift toward specialized printing capabilities in response to industry diversification.
• Establishment of Smart Maintenance Hubs by Domestic OEMs: Key machine manufacturers have set up digital maintenance centers across major industrial regions to provide remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance tools, and real-time technical support. These hubs reduce downtime, extend equipment life, and enhance customer service responsiveness. The initiative supports the government’s broader goals for smart manufacturing and boosts confidence among buyers investing in advanced machinery.
• Commercialization of Multi-Substrate Capable Machines: Chinese gravure machines are now being developed to handle a wider range of substrates—from paper and foil to bio-based films. This development supports the rising demand for recyclable and compostable packaging. Multi-substrate compatibility reduces the need for separate lines and allows companies to meet multiple customer specifications from a single press. It enhances versatility and shortens delivery timelines for fast-moving consumer goods.
• Pilot Launch of AI-Powered Job Matching Platforms: Several converters have started using AI platforms to assign print jobs based on machine capability, operator skill, and order urgency. These tools use real-time press data to match tasks with available resources for optimal efficiency. By improving job scheduling and resource allocation, the platforms reduce bottlenecks and improve throughput in high-volume facilities. This represents an early step toward full-scale AI-led production environments.

The recent developments in China’s rotogravure printing sector are aligning with global expectations of precision, speed, and sustainability. Through advanced ink control systems, multi-substrate compatibility, and smart diagnostics, Chinese firms are elevating their production standards. These innovations are enabling manufacturers to compete in both domestic and international markets while supporting long-term goals of industrial modernization and environmental stewardship.

Strategic Growth Opportunities for Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China

China’s rotogravure printing machine market is expanding due to rising industrial automation, packaging innovation, and global export demand. With its strong manufacturing base and massive consumer market, China is leveraging rotogravure for scalable, high-quality printing in food, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and more. As packaging regulations tighten and branding becomes essential, rotogravure systems are gaining popularity for their consistency and speed. These opportunities are accelerating machine upgrades, fostering innovation, and strengthening the country’s dominance in high-volume, precision-driven print applications.

• Flexible Packaging for Processed Foods and Beverages: China’s growing demand for processed and convenience foods is fueling flexible packaging expansion. Rotogravure printing allows high-resolution graphics and vibrant branding on multilayer films. It supports large print runs on various substrates like PET, BOPP, and PE. As food safety and quality become national priorities, rotogravure machines ensure clear labeling, ingredient visibility, and compliance. Packaging firms across China are investing in rotogravure to meet production targets while enhancing product presentation, supporting competitiveness in both local and export markets.
• Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Packaging: China’s pharmaceutical sector is expanding rapidly, requiring precise, regulation-compliant packaging. Rotogravure printing offers micro-level clarity for dosage information, barcodes, and anti-counterfeit markings on aluminum and laminate foils. These machines deliver clean, consistent prints under sterile conditions, supporting GMP standards. The need for safe, legible packaging in both over-the-counter and prescription medicines is driving machine adoption, especially as China’s pharma exports increase. This trend promotes high-volume, error-free printing in a sector where reliability is critical.
• Premium Cosmetics and Skincare Packaging: China’s booming beauty market demands premium packaging with tactile finishes and rich visual appeal. Rotogravure machines offer detailed, embossed, and metallic effects on tubes, cartons, and flexible packs. As domestic and global brands compete for shelf presence, packaging becomes central to brand identity. Rotogravure technology supports consistent quality on complex substrates like metallic laminates and coated films. This growth in high-end packaging is encouraging converters to upgrade to advanced rotogravure systems across major production hubs.
• E-commerce and Consumer Goods Labeling: With China being the world’s largest e-commerce market, demand for branded mailers, pouches, and retail packaging is soaring. Rotogravure’s ability to produce vivid graphics at high speed supports personalized and seasonal packaging campaigns. As online retailers seek to improve brand recall through unboxing experiences, rotogravure machines are enabling large-scale production with consistent finishes. This sector’s explosive growth is driving technology adoption among packaging firms serving platforms like JD.com and Alibaba.
• Industrial Packaging and Instruction Printing: Sectors like electronics, machinery, and automotive require durable labels and instruction sheets with precise text and technical illustrations. Rotogravure machines print on tough substrates like PVC and multilayer laminates, delivering abrasion resistance and longevity. These materials must endure mechanical stress and temperature changes. Chinese manufacturers rely on rotogravure for quality assurance and compliance, particularly for exports. This demand supports investments in machines tailored to industrial and OEM labeling needs.

Strategic growth in food, pharma, cosmetics, e-commerce, and industrial sectors is driving rotogravure machine adoption in China. The technology’s ability to deliver consistent, high-quality output on varied substrates makes it vital to production efficiency and brand identity. As China continues expanding its manufacturing capacity and regulatory enforcement, rotogravure systems are reinforcing their role as a core part of the country’s packaging infrastructure.

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China Driver and Challenges

The rotogravure printing machine market in China is shaped by diverse economic, technological, and policy forces. High-speed automation, consumer market expansion, and export requirements are key drivers boosting demand for advanced printing solutions. At the same time, challenges like rising labor costs, environmental regulations, and digital competition create obstacles. Balancing production efficiency with quality, sustainability, and cost remains essential. As China advances its industrial modernization, rotogravure technology is positioned to evolve and expand, but companies must navigate these complexities to sustain long-term growth.

The factors responsible for driving the rotogravure printing machine market in China include:
• Growth of Consumer Goods and Retail Packaging: China’s expanding middle class is driving growth in packaged food, personal care, and lifestyle products. Rotogravure machines offer the print clarity and visual appeal these segments require. Large volumes, rapid turnarounds, and branding consistency are priorities. As companies scale operations to serve both domestic and global customers, rotogravure’s speed and color fidelity become key advantages. The consumer goods boom is strengthening demand for high-performance printing systems across China.
• Advancements in Smart Manufacturing: China’s smart factory initiatives encourage automation and intelligent equipment. Rotogravure machines with auto-registration, tension control, and digital monitoring meet these modernization goals. These upgrades reduce waste, improve uptime, and integrate with broader production lines. As industrial policies favor digital transformation, rotogravure systems that support lean, automated operations are gaining traction, boosting competitiveness for packaging manufacturers across China’s urban and export hubs.
• Rising Export Demand for High-Quality Packaging: China is a global manufacturing center exporting pharmaceuticals, food, and electronics. International clients demand packaging that meets strict quality and regulatory standards. Rotogravure printing provides sharp detailing, consistent color, and long-run stability needed to fulfill these orders. Companies looking to expand overseas business are investing in rotogravure systems that deliver compliance, efficiency, and aesthetics, reinforcing China’s role in global supply chains.
• Adoption of Eco-Friendly Inks and Materials: Environmental pressures are pushing for lower-VOC inks and recyclable packaging. Rotogravure machines that handle water-based inks and thinner films are in demand. These solutions help Chinese firms meet national green policies and international sustainability benchmarks. The push for sustainable manufacturing is accelerating machine innovation and retrofit activities, especially among large-scale converters in coastal provinces.
• Supportive Government Policies and Funding: China’s industrial plans and provincial incentives encourage investment in high-tech equipment. Government-backed programs offer funding and tax benefits for upgrading to efficient rotogravure systems. These policies reduce financial burdens and stimulate equipment modernization. Companies that align with these initiatives can improve quality and productivity, while benefiting from lower operational costs and expanded market access.

Challenges in the rotogravure printing machine market in China are:
• Rising Operating and Maintenance Costs: Energy consumption, cylinder production, and skilled labor shortages contribute to high operating expenses. Many small and mid-sized converters struggle to maintain profitability while using older machines. These cost pressures may discourage expansion or lead to underutilization of existing capacity, slowing market momentum in lower-tier cities and industrial zones.
• Environmental Regulation Enforcement: Strict enforcement of emission standards for solvents and waste management increases compliance costs. Rotogravure operations that rely on solvent-based inks face pressure to switch to eco-friendly alternatives. Firms unable to meet these standards risk fines or shutdowns. Transitioning to sustainable processes requires investment, limiting accessibility for budget-constrained companies.
• Competition from Digital and Flexographic Printing: As demand grows for short-run and customized packaging, digital and flexo printing technologies are gaining share. These systems offer quicker setup and lower costs for variable designs. While rotogravure remains dominant for large volumes, its inflexibility in short batches makes it less suitable for personalized or frequently changing packaging, leading to loss of market share in some segments.

China’s rotogravure printing machine market is expanding due to smart manufacturing, sustainability trends, and global packaging demand. However, high costs, environmental constraints, and competition from digital technologies are posing significant challenges. Companies that invest in modern, efficient systems and align with policy and market shifts will sustain growth. The market’s future lies in balancing innovation with flexibility and environmental responsibility.

List of Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China Companies

Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. Through these strategies, rotogravure printing machine companies cater to increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the rotogravure printing machine companies profiled in this report include:
• Company 1
• Company 2
• Company 3
• Company 4
• Company 5
• Company 6
• Company 7
• Company 8
• Company 9
• Company 10

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China by Segment

The study includes a forecast for the rotogravure printing machine market in China by substrate type, ink type, and end use.

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China by Substrate Type [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Plastic
• Paper & Paperboard
• Metal
• Others

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China by Ink Type [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Water-Based ink
• Solvent-Based ink

Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China by End Use [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Packaging
• Commercial
• Publication
• Others

Features of the Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China

Market Size Estimates: Rotogravure printing machine in China market size estimation in terms of value ($B).
Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends and forecasts by various segments.
Segmentation Analysis: Rotogravure printing machine in China market size by substrate type, ink type, and end use in terms of value ($B).
Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different substrate type, ink type, and end use for the rotogravure printing machine in China.
Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the rotogravure printing machine in China.
Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.

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FAQ

Q1. What are the major drivers influencing the growth of the rotogravure printing machine market in China?
Answer: The major drivers for this market are the increasing need for flexible packaging, the growing interest in printed packaging, and the rising demand for printing of superior quality.
Q2. What are the major segments for rotogravure printing machine market in China?
Answer: The future of the rotogravure printing machine market in China looks promising with opportunities in the packaging, commercial, and publication markets.
Q3. Which rotogravure printing machine market segment in China will be the largest in future?
Answer: Lucintel forecasts that plastic will remain the largest segment over the forecast period due to its resilience to moisture and robustness.
Q4. Do we receive customization in this report?
Answer: Yes, Lucintel provides 10% customization without any additional cost.

This report answers following 10 key questions:

Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the rotogravure printing machine market in China by substrate type (plastic, paper & paperboard, metal, and others), ink type (water-based ink and solvent-based ink), and end use (packaging, commercial, publication, and others)?
Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.3. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?
Q.4. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?
Q.5. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?
Q.6. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?
Q.7. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?
Q.8. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?
Q.9. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?
Q.10. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?
For any questions related to Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China Size, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China Growth, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China Analysis, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China Report, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China Share, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China Trends, Rotogravure Printing Machine Market in China Forecast, Rotogravure Printing Machine Companies, write Lucintel analyst at email: helpdesk@lucintel.com. We will be glad to get back to you soon.