Softgel Capsule Market Size, Share, Growth Analysis, By Material (Gelatin-Based/Animal-Based, Non-Animal-Based), By Source (Bovine, Porcine), By Application, By End User, By Region - Industry Forecast 2025-2032

Softgel Capsule Market size was valued at USD 1.07 Billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 1.14 Billion in 2024 to USD 1.88 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period (2025-2032).

The softgel capsule market is experiencing significant growth driven by advancements in manufacturing technology and the shift towards plant-based materials. Key benefits of softgel capsules include ease of swallowing, taste masking, enhanced absorption and bioavailability, and superior stability. Innovations have led to non-gelatine capsules utilizing starch, HPMC, and pullulan, catering to vegetarian and vegan consumers while reducing animal waste. Companies like Aenova have seen notable revenue increases through the adoption of vegetable capsules, and Euro Caps is developing improved chewable soft gels with better flavor masking. Major players like Catalent and Roquette are also entering the vegan capsule segment to capture the growing market among health-conscious consumers. This trend underscores the industry's commitment to sustainability and consumer demand for plant-based alternatives.

Top-down and bottom-up approaches were used to estimate and validate the size of the Softgel Capsule market and to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets. The research methodology used to estimate the market size includes the following details: The key players in the market were identified through secondary research, and their market shares in the respective regions were determined through primary and secondary research. This entire procedure includes the study of the annual and financial reports of the top market players and extensive interviews for key insights from industry leaders such as CEOs, VPs, directors, and marketing executives. All percentage shares split, and breakdowns were determined using secondary sources and verified through Primary sources. All possible parameters that affect the markets covered in this research study have been accounted for, viewed in extensive detail, verified through primary research, and analyzed to get the final quantitative and qualitative data.

Softgel Capsule Market Segmental Analysis

Global Softgel Capsule Market is segmented by material, source, application, end user and region. Based on material, the market is segmented into Gelatin-Based/Animal-Based, and Non-Animal-Based. Based on source, the market is segmented into bovine, porcine and other sources. Based on application, the market is segmented into Pharmaceutical Companies, Nutraceutical Companies, Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry, and Others. Based on End User, the market is segmented into In-house Manufacturing, and Contract Manufacturing Organizations. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.

Driver of the Softgel Capsule Market

The growth of the softgel capsule market is significantly propelled by the rising number of clinical trials that explore the effectiveness of soft gelatin capsules in treating a variety of health conditions. These trials play a crucial role in validating the safety and efficacy of softgel formulations. For instance, InnoPharmax Inc. initiated a clinical study in August 2018 aimed at assessing the safety and tolerability of D07001 softgel in patients who had undergone first-line chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy for challenging cases like unresectable metastatic and locally advanced biliary tract cancer. Consequently, this trend of increasing clinical evaluations is expected to substantially enhance market growth, as more conditions are explored for treatment with softgel capsules.

Restraints in the Softgel Capsule Market

The Softgel Capsule market faces significant challenges due to patent expirations, which result in declining revenues for pharmaceutical companies. The protection and management of intellectual property are crucial for healthcare organizations, as they strive to maintain profitability amidst the threat of generic competitors. A report from Statista in 2020 highlighted the impact of patent expirations, with the value of prescription pharmaceuticals plummeting from US$ 46 billion in 2019 to US$ 16 billion in 2020. This surge in generic drug availability heightens competition within the market, negatively affecting the growth prospects of the softgel capsule sector as established products face increased rivalry.

Market Trends of the Softgel Capsule Market

The Softgel Capsule market is witnessing a significant trend driven by the increasing demand for plant-based capsules, particularly vegetarian softgels. These capsules are gaining popularity due to their formulation from naturally occurring plant materials, appealing to health-conscious consumers who seek non-GMO products free from animal derivatives, gluten, and artificial additives. As the emphasis on sustainability and ethical consumption rises, manufacturers are adapting to preferences for cleaner, plant-based alternatives. This shift is not only expanding market opportunities but also encouraging innovation in capsule technology, allowing for broader applications in dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods, thus shaping the future landscape of the softgel industry.