Empty Capsules Market Forecasts to 2030 - Global Analysis By Type (Gelatin Capsules and Non-gelatin Capsules), Source (Porcine, Bovine and Natural), Raw Material, Functionality, Application, End User and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Empty Capsules Market is accounted for $3.30 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $5.88 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period. Empty capsules are pharmaceutical shells typically made from gelatin or other suitable polymers. They serve as containers for administering various medications, supplements, or herbal remedies orally. These capsules come in different sizes, colors, and shapes to accommodate diverse formulations and dosage requirements. Empty capsules provide a convenient and tasteless way to deliver medications, especially for individuals who have difficulty swallowing tablets or dislike the taste of liquid medications.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the population aged 60 years and above will increase from 605 million in 2000 to 2 billion in 2050. According to DealsOnHealth, in 2021, globally, 35% of women above 60 or older use beauty products every day.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Pharmaceutical industry growth

As pharmaceutical companies expand their research and development efforts to innovate new drugs and formulations, the demand for empty capsules rises. These capsules serve as a preferred dosage form for various drugs due to their versatility, ease of swallowing, and compatibility with different formulations. The growing trend towards personalized medicine and the development of niche drugs further fuel the demand for empty capsules, as they offer precise dosing and easy customization.

Restraint:

Quality control and assurance

Quality control and assurance in the empty capsule market involves stringent measures to ensure that capsules meet regulatory standards and customer expectations. This encompasses rigorous testing of raw materials, manufacturing processes, and finished products to guarantee uniformity, stability, and safety. Quality control focuses on detecting defects and deviations during production, while quality assurance involves implementing systems and protocols to prevent issues before they occur. Adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) is paramount, alongside regular audits and inspections to maintain consistency and reliability.

Opportunity:

Vegetarian and vegan capsules

Vegetarian capsules, typically made from plant cellulose, cater to individuals who avoid animal-derived products for dietary, ethical, or religious reasons. Similarly, vegan capsules, which exclude all animal-derived ingredients, appeal to a growing segment of the population embracing plant-based diets. This trend has prompted manufacturers to innovate and offer plant-based alternatives to traditional gelatin capsules, tapping into a niche market with increasing demand for ethical and sustainable products. As consumers become more conscious of their choices, the demand for vegetarian and vegan capsules is expected to continue its upward trajectory, presenting a lucrative opportunity for businesses operating in the empty capsules sector.

Threat:

Competition from alternative delivery systems

With the emergence of various alternative delivery methods such as softgels, tablets, and gummies, the demand for traditional empty capsules may decline. These alternative systems often offer advantages such as improved taste, ease of consumption, and enhanced bioavailability, making them appealing to consumers. Additionally, advancements in technology have enabled the development of innovative delivery systems that cater to specific needs and preferences. To remain competitive, manufacturers in the empty capsule market must focus on innovation, quality, and customization to differentiate their products and adapt to changing consumer preferences.

Covid-19 Impact:

With the global disruption in supply chains and manufacturing, there has been a shortage of raw materials required for producing empty capsules, leading to production delays and increased prices. The increased demand for pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals during the pandemic has further strained the supply of empty capsules, as they are essential for encapsulating drugs and supplements. Companies in the empty capsule market have had to adapt to these challenges by diversifying their supply chains, exploring alternative sourcing options, and investing in increased production capacity.

The gelatin capsules segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The gelatin capsules segment has experienced robust growth within the empty capsule market as Gelatin capsules are derived from animal collagen, which have gained popularity due to their biodegradability, ease of digestion, and compatibility with a wide range of formulations. Moreover, they offer excellent stability for both pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products. The rising demand for dietary supplements, coupled with the expanding pharmaceutical industry globally, has fueled the growth.

The anti-inflammatory drugs segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The anti-inflammatory drug segment within the empty capsule market has witnessed notable growth due to the rising prevalence of inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma. As patients seek convenient dosage forms, empty capsules offer a versatile and customizable solution for drug encapsulation. Advancements in drug delivery technologies have enabled the development of novel formulations with improved bioavailability and targeted delivery. Moreover, the aging population, coupled with sedentary lifestyles, has contributed to the growing incidence of inflammatory conditions, fostering market expansion.

Region with largest share:

The North American region has experienced significant growth in the empty capsule market because of increased demand for pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements. Rising health consciousness and a growing aging population have contributed to the expansion of the nutritional supplement industry, driving the demand for empty capsules. Regulatory approvals and quality standards set by organizations such as the FDA have also instilled confidence in consumers, further boosting market growth. Additionally, the presence of key players and robust distribution networks within the region has facilitated market expansion, ensuring easy availability of empty capsules to manufacturers.

Region with highest CAGR:

The Asia-Pacific region has witnessed substantial growth in the empty capsule market due to increasing pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries, coupled with rising healthcare awareness and disposable incomes. Advancements in capsule technology and growing consumer preference for capsule-based formulations contribute to market expansion. The region's large population base and expanding geriatric demographic create a substantial market for empty capsules, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players in Empty Capsules market include ACG Worldwide, Bright Pharma Caps Inc, CapsCanada Corporation, Healthcaps India Ltd, Lonza Group, Medi-Caps Ltd, Nectar Lifesciences Ltd, Qingdao Yiqing Medicinal Capsules Co. Ltd, Qualicaps Inc, Roxlor LLC, Shanxi JC Biological Technology Co. Ltd, Snail Pharma Industry Co. Ltd, Suheung Capsule Co. Ltd and Sunil Healthcare Ltd.

Key Developments:

In February 2024, Lonza has announced the launch of its new performance nutrition brand, Oceanix(TM) in the U.S.A and Canada. The unique phytoplankton ingredient is sustainably sourced from the ocean and meets rising demand for natural, non-GMO and vegan supplement products. Oceanix(TM) ingredient offers potential benefits for physical performance and an increased physiological response against oxidative stress to aid recovery in a small, concentrated dose.

In December 2023, Pharma and plant-based ingredient giant, Roquette, has confirmed its acquisition of Qualicaps from the Mitsubishu Chemical Group. This strategic investment offers Roquette the ability to expand the global footprint of its pharmaceutical business, as well as enrich its offerings of oral dosage solutions. Roquette's deep knowledge and expertise in the development of pharmaceutical excipients will be further enhanced by Qualicaps' expertise in capsules, as well as by their assets and infrastructure.

Types Covered:

• Gelatin Capsules
• Non-gelatin Capsules

Sources Covered:

• Porcine
• Bovine
• Marine
• Natural

Raw Materials Covered:

• Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC)
• Starch Materials
• Pullulan

Functionalities Covered:

• Immediate Release
• Sustained Release
• Delayed Release

Applications Covered:

• Antacid & Antiflatulent Preparations
• Dietary Supplements
• Cardiovascular Therapy Drugs
• Anti-inflammatory Drugs
• Antibiotic & Antibacterial Drugs
• Cough & Cold Drugs
• Antianemic Preparations
• Other Applications

End Users Covered:

• Pharmaceutical & Biopharmaceutical Companies
• Nutraceutical Companies
• Other End Users

Regions Covered:

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • Italy
  • France
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:

• Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
• Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
• Covers Market data for the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2026, and 2030
• Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
• Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
• Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
• Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
• Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

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• Company Profiling
  • Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
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• Regional Segmentation
  • Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
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