Do you think packaging design is more important in some countries than others?

For instance, I've noticed that packaging tends to be more stylish/elegant in Japan and Britain, and less so in the US and China.

This includes packaging for food and small items such as stationery and healthcare products.

Have you noticed the same thing? Or do you disagree?
If you agree, how do you think this ties to societal values? Is packaging important to you?