Biodegradable Gloves Market Outlook (2022 to 2032)

The global Biodegradable Gloves Market is expected to reach USD 1.3 Billion in 2022, expanding at a CAGR of 23.0% over the forecast period. By 2032, the total biodegradable gloves market size will reach USD 10.2 Billion. According to a recent study by Future Market Insights (FMI), single-time use gloves are leading the market with a share of about 93.3% in 2021.

Market Outlook:

Data Points Market Insights
Biodegradable Gloves Market Value (2021) USD 1.1 Billion
Estimated Market Size (2022) USD 1.3 Billion
Projected Market Valuation (2032) USD 10.2 Billion
Value-based CAGR (2022 to 2032) 23.0%
Market Share of Top 5 Countries 54.7%

Rubber gloves are among the most widely manufactured disposable products worldwide. Because latex products are designed as single-use products, mass production of these products results in increased volumes of rubber solid waste disposal every year.

This is related to the complexity of decomposing rubber/latex-based products in the natural environment. As a result, combining a rubber system with biomaterials is an alternative. Bio-Add and other novel green additives are thus used in the composition of non-rubber latex gloves to speed up the process of biodegradation.

The market value for biodegradable gloves represented approximately 7.8% of the overall USD 14.1 Billion global medical gloves market in 2021.

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2017 to 2021 Biodegradable Gloves Market Historic Outlook Vs 2022 to 2032 Forecast  

The sales of biodegradable gloves grew at a CAGR of 20.5% from 2017 to 2021, owing to the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The demand for nitrile gloves is expected to grow as these gloves do not affect human health, and are environment friendly. This is a key factor driving the production of biodegradable nitrile gloves.

Several healthcare facilities utilize latex-free gloves, owing to their affordability. The use of nitrile disposable gloves across the medical sector will grow in the forthcoming years owing to minimal drawbacks and positive features of the nitrile material.

The development of novel technologies to cater to the demand for high-quality gloves at low prices will drive the overall biodegradable gloves market.

Individuals may choose to continue wearing gloves even after the COVID-19 outbreak due to increased understanding of the necessity of gloves as a consequence of the pandemic.

This scenario exacerbated the issue of rubber solid waste management; consequently, the development of biodegradable gloves may be a viable solution. However, before commercialisation, it is critical to investigate the shelf life of biodegradable gloves.

Malaysia is the world's largest maker for rubber gloves, producing volumes of over 200 billion each year. Malaysia exported roughly 182 billion gloves in 2019, with the Malaysian Rubber Glove Manufacturers Association (MARGMA) estimating 240 billion pieces in 2020 due to the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic.

It will substantially contribute to waste disposal issues, which is expected to boost the supply of single-use personal protective equipment. Biodegradation is thus a sustainable alternative which will aid in the waste disposal of these consumable products.

Demand for infection prevention and control utilities is projected remain high demand over the forecast period as the prevalence of epidemic diseases rises. Nitrile gloves are largely utilised in the medical field to protect caregivers and patients against infections. Nitrile gloves have higher strength and durability, and provide protection against blood borne diseases.

Thus, owing to the aforementioned factors, the global biodegradable gloves market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 23.0% during the forecast period.

Biodegradable Gloves Market

What are the Key Opportunities for Biodegradable Gloves Manufacturers?

Increasing demand for nitrile material gloves is expected to create opportunities for growth in the market over the forecast period amid growing concerns regarding the prevalence of latex allergy across the globe.

With stringent regulations imposed by the FDA and certain European regulatory authorities on powdered gloves, the demand for alternatives, such as biodegradable gloves and powder-free nitrile gloves is increasing worldwide.

Strict worker safety rules, as well as a high focus on hygiene across various end-use industries, are also driving up demand for nitrile gloves worldwide. These gloves have a stronger chemical and puncture resistance than latex gloves, which is driving demand in a wide range of industries.

During the forecast period, this is expected to provide lucrative opportunities for growth in the global biodegradable gloves market.

Sabyasachi Ghosh
Sabyasachi Ghosh

Principal Consultant

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Which Factors are Restraining the Demand for Biodegradable Gloves?

Medical gloves play an important role in keeping health care personnel, patients, and anyone in proximity safe.

However, the US Food and Drug Administration's Centre for Devices and Radiological Health has issued a ban on absorbable powder gloves, powdered surgeon gloves, and powdered patient examination gloves, citing a significant risk of injury and illness that cannot be eliminated or corrected by changing the label.

Granulomas, inflammation, and respiratory allergic reactions are some of the risks linked with using powdered gloves. This factor acts as a major impeding factor in the growth of the biodegradable gloves market.

Moreover, growth in the market is likely to be affected by the production costs and shelf-life assessment of biodegradable gloves. Numerous investigations have been published, with most studies focusing on different types of biodegradable fillers and distinct strategies towards enhancing non-rubber latex film compatibility, mechanical strength, and biodegradability.

However, little research has been done on the shelf life of biodegradable products. This is because of the high cost of measures employed for the assessment of the material integrity of biodegradable gloves. These factors are expected to limit sales in the market over the forecast period.

Country-wise Insights

What is Driving the USA Biodegradable Gloves Market?

Surging Demand for Biodegradable Nitrile Gloves in the USA Will Boost Sales

The USA dominated the North America market, holding about 89.1% of the total market share in 2021. As per the report, the trend is expected to continue over the forecast period.

Expansion of the pharmaceutical sector and government laws prohibiting powdered and latex gloves in the USA will boost the market. Furthermore, the market is likely to benefit from growth in the food processing industry as well as the hygiene and personal care sectors.

Furthermore, the FDA recently imposed a ban on powdered medical gloves due to their negative side effects. Due to the powder, powdered medical gloves are easier to wear, however instead of aiding people with allergies, they have a negative impact. This is a prime driver for the design and production of biodegradable gloves within the country.

What is the Germany Biodegradable Gloves Market Outlook?

Rising Adoption of Biodegradable Disposable Gloves in Germany Will Spur Demand

Germany is set to exhibit grow at a CAGR of 18.3% in the European biodegradable gloves market during the forecast period. Germany is becoming an increasingly popular medical tourist hotspot. The country's attractiveness for healthcare stems from its high-quality care, strict ethical requirements, and quick access to specialists.

Additionally, in Germany, the cost-to-quality ratio of medical care is apparently low. It is not the cheapest medical destination in the world, but it is far less expensive than other industrialised nations such as the USA

Contributions fund the country's healthcare industry, guaranteeing that all residents have access to free healthcare. As a result of these advances in the medical industry, demand for disposable medical gloves is increasing, thereby fueling the growth in the market.

What Makes the Malaysia Biodegradable Gloves Market Attractive?

Expansion of the Healthcare Sector in Malaysia Will Drive Sales of Eco-friendly Disposable Gloves

Malaysia held approximately 17.8% of the South Asia share in 2021, and sales are projected to grow at a 18.5% CAGR during the forecast period. Malaysian rubber glove makers committed to contributing 18 million gloves to Wuhan city in early February 2020. The healthcare industry has been generating steady demand for protective medical supplies.

Medical gloves from China are now on the USD 200 billion list for Chinese goods, subjected to a 10% import tariff, which will hamstring rubber glove makers in China. To meet rising global demand, Malaysia's biggest producers have either boosted capacity or are gradually raising capacity over the next 1 to 3 years.

Top Glove, Hartalega, Kossan, CarePlus, and Riverstone are among Malaysia's top five companies, with a top growth streak in line with expanding global demand for gloves.

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Category-wise Insights

Which is the Most Popular Product Type?

Demand for Plain Gloves to Remain High

Based on product type, sales of plain gloves are expected to increase at a 22% CAGR over the forecast period, accounting for about 75.1% of the total market share in 2032. Plain gloves, such as biodegradable nitrile gloves are enhanced for higher affinity to biodegradability with smooth and enhanced grip, as well as durability.

Why are Sales of Single-use Biodegradable Gloves Increasing?

Adoption of Single Time Use Biodegradable Gloves Will Gain Traction

In terms of usage, the single time use gloves segment is projected to account for 93.1% of the total market share in 2032. With high demand for protective medical equipment, as well as rising cases of infectious diseases, the cost associated with the bulk purchase of single-use gloves is relatively lower than the reusable gloves, and are durable and cost-friendly.

Which End User Benefits the Most From Biodegradable Gloves?

Sales of Biodegradable Gloves Across Hospitals Will Continue Rising

By end use, the hospitals segment held 52.3% of the total market share in 2021. The growing prevalence of chronic and infectious diseases, as well as the associated increasing volumes of surgical procedures are expected to drive sales in this segment over the forecast period.

Competitive Landscape

With various competitors in the biodegradable gloves market, the overall market is highly fragmented. To meet consumer demand and expand their customer base, leading companies are implementing methods such as mergers and acquisitions, partnerships and collaborations, and new product launches. For instance:

  • Top Glove, the largest global rubber glove manufacturer, has increased its capacity in recent years, from 60.5 billion sets in 2018 (August) to 70.1 billion pieces in 2019 (November). By the end of 2021, the company intended to increase its yearly capacity by 30% to 91.4 billion pieces.
  • In April 2022, the SHOWA Group announced that its single-use nitrile gloves had received FDA 510(k) medical approval. SHOWA Group is now ready to produce the market's first biodegradable nitrile gloves approved for medical use as the only integrated manufacturer of nitrile, single-use PPE gloves with complete USA onshore capabilities.

Report Scope as per Biodegradable Gloves Industry Analysis

Attributes Details
Estimated Market Size (2022) USD 1.3 Billion
Projected Market Valuation (2032) USD 10.2 Billion
Value-based CAGR (2022 to 2032) 23%
Forecast Period 2017 to 2021
Historical Data Available for 2022 to 2032
Market Analysis USD Billion for Value
Key Regions Covered North America; Latin America; Europe; South Asia; East Asia; Oceania; and Middle East & Africa
Key Countries Covered The USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, The UK, Germany, Italy, Russia, Spain, France, BENELUX, India, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, China, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Turkey, GCC, and South Africa
Key Market Segments Covered Product, Usage, Size, End User, and Region
Key Companies Profiled SHOWA GROUP; SW Safety Solutions Inc.; Innovative Gloves Co., Ltd.; Top Glove Corporation Bhd; Hourglass International, Inc.; Biogone; Worldchamp (Huizhou) Plastics Products Co., Ltd; SunEco Tech Ventures Private Limited; Traffi | Hand Protection Specialists; St. Marys Rubbers Pvt. Ltd.; INSINC Products Ltd

Key Market Segments Covered in Biodegradable Gloves Industry Research

By Product:

  • Plain
  • Textured

By Usage:

  • Re-usable
  • Single time use

By Size:

  • Small
  • Medium
  • Large
  • Extra Large
  • Double Extra Large

By End User:

  • Hospitals
  • Clinics
  • Ambulatory Surgical Centers
  • Academic and Research Institute
  • Diagnostic Laboratories
  • Home care settings

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Europe
  • South Asia
  • East Asia
  • Oceania
  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the biodegradable gloves market worth in 2021?

The global biodegradable gloves market is worth USD 1.1 Billion in 2021 and is set to expand 7.9X over the next ten years.

What is the sales forecast for the biodegradable gloves market through 2032?

The biodegradable gloves market is expected to reach USD 10.2 Billion by the end of 2032, with sales revenue expected to register a 23.0% CAGR.

What are the key trends shaping the biodegradable gloves industry?

The growing burden of medical waste, rising awareness regarding green initiatives and sustainable production methods, and adoption of biodegradable nitrile gloves are some of the key trends in this market.

Which are the top 5 countries driving demand for biodegradable gloves?

India, USA, China, Malaysia, and Thailand are expected to drive demand for the biodegradable gloves industry.

What is the North American market outlook for biodegradable gloves?

North America is one of the key markets for biodegradable gloves, with the USA accounting for about 89.1% of the North American biodegradable gloves market in the year 2021.

At what percentage is the demand for biodegradable gloves expected to register growth in Europe?

Demand for biodegradable gloves in Europe is expected to register a growth of 21.8% over the next ten years.

Which countries are the key producers of biodegradable gloves?

Malaysia, the USA, and India are the key producers of biodegradable gloves.

Who are the key players in the biodegradable gloves market sphere?

SHOWA GROUP, SW Safety Solutions Inc., Innovative Gloves Co., Ltd., Top Glove Corporation Bhd, Hourglass International, Inc., Biogone, Worldchamp (Huizhou) Plastics Products Co., Ltd, SunEco Tech Ventures Private Limited, Traffi Hand Protection Specialists, St. Marys Rubbers Pvt. Ltd., and INSINC Products Ltd. are some of the key players in the biodegradable gloves industry.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Key Market Trends
	4. Key Success Factors
	5. Market Background
	6. Global Biodegradable Gloves Market Demand (in Value or Size in USD Million) Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast, 2022 to 2032
	7. Global Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032, By Product
		7.1. Plain
		7.2. Textured
	8. Global Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032, By Usage
		8.1. Re-usable
		8.2. Single time use
	9. Global Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032, By Size
		9.1. Small
		9.2. Medium
		9.3. Large
		9.4. Extra Large
		9.5. Double Extra Large
	10. Global Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032, By End User
		10.1. Hospitals
		10.2. Clinics
		10.3. Ambulatory Surgical Centers
		10.4. Academic and Research Institutes
		10.5. Diagnostic Laboratories
		10.6. Home care settings
	11. Global Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032, By Region
		11.1. North America
		11.2. Latin America
		11.3. Europe
		11.4. East Asia
		11.5. South Asia
		11.6. Oceania
		11.7. Middle East and Africa (MEA)
	12. North America Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032
	13. Latin America Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032
	14. Europe Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032
	15. East Asia Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032
	16. South Asia Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032
	17. Oceania Biodegradable Gloves Market 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032
	18. Middle East and Africa (MEA) Biodegradable Gloves Market Analysis 2017 to 2021 and Forecast 2022 to 2032
	19. Market Structure Analysis
	20. Competition Analysis
		20.1. Showa Group
		20.2. SW Safety Solutions Inc.
		20.3. Innovative Gloves Co., Ltd.
		20.4. Top Glove Corporation Bhd
		20.5. Hourglass International, Inc.
		20.6. Biogone
		20.7. Worldchamp (Huizhou) Plastics Products Co., Ltd
		20.8. SunEco Tech Ventures Private Limited
		20.9. Traffi | Hand Protection Specialists
		20.10. St. Marys Rubbers Pvt. Ltd.
		20.11. INSINC Products Ltd
	21. Assumptions and Acronyms Used
	22. Research Methodology
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