The South African packaging industry continues to outperform the country’s GDP growth rate, driven by a number of sustained market forces. Population growth, urbanisation and rising income levels are fuelling demand for consumer goods and, in turn, packaging solutions. The rapid expansion of e-commerce, alongside growth in the beauty, pharmaceutical, and food and beverage sectors, is further accelerating demand. Increasingly, both consumers and producers are also prioritising sustainability, making eco-friendly packaging one of the most significant growth drivers in the market.

With more than 20 years’ experience, Propak Cape provides an established trade exhibition platform to support the continued expansion of the local packaging sector. The exhibition brings together leading suppliers, industry experts and buyers, creating opportunities for meaningful engagement and commercial partnerships. It will showcase the latest technological advancements, emerging trends and breakthrough innovations, with a strong focus on sustainable and recyclable solutions that are shaping the future of packaging.

The Western Cape is South Africa’s leading region for agri-food exports to key international markets, including the Netherlands, the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Italy. With a strategic focus on export-led growth, competitiveness and innovation, the province provides a strong foundation for hosting Propak Cape 2026. The event is well positioned to support trade development while reinforcing the region’s role in the global value chain. In addition to packaging, the exhibition incorporates co-located shows covering plastics, processing, labelling, print, and food and beverage packaging, offering a comprehensive view of the sector.

“Exhibition space at Propak Cape 2026 has been fully sold out months in advance of the show, demonstrating strong industry support and reinforcing its track record as a platform for generating leads and driving sales,” says Mark Anderson, Portfolio Director at Montgomery Group Africa, organisers of the show. “With rapid advancements in technology, visitors can expect to see the latest products and innovations from across packaging, plastics, print, labelling, food processing and related sectors, presented by 200-plus local and international exhibitors.”

“Investments in capital equipment and industrial technologies are significant, long-term commitments and typically involve input from a range of stakeholders — from plant managers and engineers to procurement and finance teams,” continues Anderson. “Being able to see machinery in operation and engage directly with technical specialists is therefore a critical part of the decision-making process. Propak Cape provides a neutral platform where these decision-makers can explore solutions, ask detailed questions, and assess long-term value. Attending the exhibition is a smart business move.”

Propak Cape takes place once every three years in the Western Cape, offering a focused, three-day platform for innovation, collaboration and industry engagement. A programme of free-to-attend seminar sessions will deliver insights into key packaging and processing trends, while an industry conference hosted by the Institute of Packaging SA (IPSA) will provide additional value through expert-led discussions and knowledge sharing.

Propak Cape 2026 will take place at the Cape Town International Conference Centre (CTICC) from 27-29 October 2026 incorporating Pro-Plas Expo, Print Expo, Pro-Label Expo, FoodPro Expo, and the Wine & Olive Oil Production Expo. The event is supported by IPSA, Packaging SA, Plastics SA, Printing SA, and the Aerosol Manufacturers Association (AMA).