According to new research from Smithers, the global printing ink market is undergoing a major transformation driven by the rapid adoption of digital printing, particularly inkjet, and a growing emphasis on sustainability. The study outlines key technological and market developments expected to reshape the industry through 2035, with packaging emerging as the primary growth sector.

Inkjet technology continues to lead the shift toward digital printing, increasingly displacing traditional methods such as offset and flexography. Smithers forecasts that inkjet will dominate digital printing volumes and expand its footprint across packaging, labeling, and graphic applications. As print speeds increase and resolutions approach 3,000 dpi, next-generation inkjet systems will deliver higher precision and quality while supporting a wider range of substrates.

Sustainability remains a central focus for ink development. The report notes a strong move toward bio-based and water-based inks designed to improve recyclability, reduce environmental impact, and facilitate easier de-inking during recycling. This shift aligns with global efforts to create circular production models and lower carbon footprints. Water-based inks, in particular, are seeing faster growth than solvent-based alternatives, especially in flexible packaging and flexographic printing.

Packaging continues to drive much of the innovation and growth within the ink market, as inkjet expands into new areas such as corrugated board, cartons, flexible films, and even metal packaging. Future technological advancements will also include smaller drop sizes, high-speed inkjet web presses already operating at 410 meters per minute, and the development of new specialist inks, such as opaque white, metallic, luminous, and security formulations.

Smithers concludes that the printing ink market of the future will be characterized by digital dominance, sustainable chemistry, and advanced performance across every major application. With ongoing innovation and strong demand from the packaging sector, the next decade will see ink manufacturers accelerate the transition toward smarter, greener, and more versatile solutions.