Cigarette rolling papers are thin and lightweight papers used for rolling cigarettes. They are made from nonwood plant fibers such as flax, hemp, sisal, rice straw, and esparto. These materials are popular among cigarette smokers because they burn slowly and evenly, allowing for a smoother smoking experience. The market for cigarette rolling papers is segmented based on the type of material used, with rag fibers being a popular choice due to their thinness and lightweight. Manufacturers are constantly innovating to improve the quality of their products and provide better options for smokers.
Key Drivers of the Cigarette Rolling Paper Market
Increasing Number of Smokers
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the US, around 40 million adults smoke cigarettes, and over 3 million middle and high school students use some form of tobacco product. Besides, approximately 1,600 young people under the age of 18 try their first cigarette every day. Additionally, according to the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) (2012), daily smoking is most widespread in Europe and Asia, where more than 20% of adults in most nations smoke every day. Hence, owing to growing number of smokers every day across the globe, increase the demand for cigarette rolling papers.
Increasing Demand of Hand-Rolled Cigarettes
Hand-rolled cigarettes are seen as a more natural and organic option and they offer more authentic smoking experience. Cigarette rolling papers offer a more personalized smoking experience by allowing individuals to choose the type and size of paper they use to roll their cigarette. Different rolling paper materials can also impact the taste and burn rate of the cigarette, giving smokers more control over their smoking experience. Hence, the demand for rolling paper increases.
Demand of Organic Rolling Paper
One of the key drivers of the market is the rising popularity of cannabis and CBD smoking, which has led to an increase in the demand for rolling papers made from natural and organic materials such as hemp and flax. For instance, brands like RAW, which offer unbleached and additive-free rolling papers made from natural plant fibers, have seen significant growth in recent years and continue to grow owing to various collaborations and partnerships. For instance, in December 2020, Daily High Club, a popular brand that offers smoking supplies and subscription boxes, partnered with RAW Natural Rolling Papers and launched a new subscription box called RAWsentials. This exclusive monthly box is priced under $10 and includes a range of premium smoking products such as RAW Organic Hemp Rolling Papers, all-natural RAW Filter Tips, a RAW Clipper Lighter, and assorted stickers. The box is available for purchase internationally on Daily High Club's online shop.
Expansions and Innovations by Major Market Players
The cigarette rolling paper market has significant contributors such as Devambez, Miquel y Costas & Miquel S.A., Ochre Media Pvt. Ltd., Pura Group, Recon Inc., Nippon Paper Papylia Co., Ltd., and Republic Brands, among others. These players assist in the market’s growth with the launch of new products and through collaborations and investments. Some of the recent developments in the market include-
• In February 2023, Hempacco, a company that produces hemp smokables, partnered up with popular artist and entrepreneur Snoop Dogg to create a new consumer goods line through the establishment of a new company called HPDG, LLC. The new company, which is owned by both Hempacco and Snoop Dogg, will focus on developing and marketing various consumer products, including smokable hemp items, hemp paper, blunts, vapes, and edibles. This partnership aligns with Hempacco's mission to revolutionize the tobacco industry.
• In October 2022, Hempacco launched the Hemp Hop Blunt Wrap smoking papers. The company has partnered with hip hop icon Rick Ross and Rap Snacks, Inc. founder and CEO James Lindsay to create and launch this product. The Hemp Hop Smokables line, which includes a variety of products such as hemp cigarettes, smoking paper, and alternatives to nicotine tobacco, can be purchased online at www.HempHop.shop and in select retail outlets.
• In February 2022, Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. (SWM) introduced Botani, a new business that will offer premium hemp and botanical solutions to the natural fibers industry. The products will include hemp wraps, fillers, and rolling/pre-roll papers that cater to manufacturers who want to provide their customers with high-quality experiences. Botani will use its expertise in product research and development, gained from over 400 years of experience in the natural fiber, specialty paper, and tobacco industries, to offer innovative and elevated products.
• In July 2021, the world’s leading rolling company, Republic’s JOB Rolling Papers brand launched a line of products in partnership with rap mogul Birdman's $TUNNA brand. $TUNNA JOB Champagne Rolling Papers are available in 1 ¼ and 1 ½ booklets and are made from organic hemp paper produced in Champagne, France.