Medical Packaging Market Outlook (2023 to 2033)

The global medical packaging market size is expected to rise at a CAGR of 6.7% in the forecast period 2023 to 2033. The market value is projected to increase from USD 78.3 billion in 2023 to USD 149.8 billion by 2033. The global medical packaging industry is anticipated to exhibit y-o-y growth of 3.29% in 2023.

The forecast term is expected to see a profitable growth outlook for the global medical packaging industry. According to a recent estimate, sales will increase between 2023 and 2033, creating a USD 74 billion opportunity for attractive incremental development. During the review period, sales are also expected to increase by 1.90 times the size of the existing market.

Significant growth of the pharmaceutical sector, fueled by scientific and technological breakthroughs, serves as a primary catalyst for expansion of the medical packaging sector. Anticipated continuation of this trend is foreseen throughout the projected time frame, with a particular focus on developing countries such as Brazil, India, and. Notably, the United States is poised to maintain its position as the most dominant pharmaceutical sector globally.

On December 13, 2016, the United States enacted the 21st Century Cures Act, designed to accelerate the advancement of medical products. It is expected that this legislation will encourage significant breakthroughs in the pharmaceutical sector, subsequently leading to an increased demand for medical packaging in the country.

The global market is anticipated to be primarily driven by its enormous medical system, high income per citizen, and significant expenditures in drug development. Expanding importance of generic medications and improved access to advanced healthcare facilities are expected to create lucrative opportunities for medical packaging by 2033.

A driving force behind the pharmaceutical sector is primarily the progress in bioscience and medicine. Additionally, as one of Europe's most prosperous high-technology sectors, the pharmaceutical business significantly contributes to the continent's economy. Over the past 5 years, the pharmaceutical sector has experienced a significant transformation with a notable emphasis on the development of biologic medications.

Due to their vulnerability in liquid form, only a few biotechnology-based medicinal therapies are offered as frozen or dried-powder dosage forms. Lyophilized medications necessitate specialized packaging to achieve optimal results, creating new business opportunities for packaging suppliers.

Attributes Key Insights
Medical Packaging Market Estimated Size (2023E) USD 78.3 billion
Projected Market Valuation (2033F) USD 149.8 billion
Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) 6.7%
Collective Value Share: Top 5 Companies (2023A) 15% to 20%

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2018 to 2022 Medical Packaging Sales Outlook Compared to Demand Forecast from 2023 to 2033

The global medical packaging market expanded a CAGR of 3.3% during the historical period between 2018 and 2022. It rose at a value of USD 75.8 billion in 2022 from USD 66.5 billion in 2018.

The market has gained significant traction in the healthcare sector. Due to establishment of various pharmaceutical firms during the last two decades, the market has undergone tremendous expansion. Technical improvements in the global packaging sector have also contributed to the market's current advantageous position.

Increasing number of healthcare facilities, therapeutic equipment manufacturers, and diagnostic centers might drive the market. As a result, packaging manufacturers will need to frequently adjust their designs to meet the changing requirements.

They must also remain up-to-date with new medical device advancements in order to keep up with these developments. The medical packaging industry is experiencing technical developments as a result of surging need for inviolable, inert, and sterilized packaged items.

Emerging companies are innovatively streamlining medical device identification. An example of this is CleanCut Technologies' Vault device packaging system, which effectively utilizes tray-style packaging.

Employing similar techniques with slight modifications for identical medical devices enables packaging businesses to reduce verification time. These can also potentially produce smaller batch sizes tailored to customer requirements. Counterfeiting in medical products is expected to drive the adoption of radio-frequency identification (RFID) chips and near-field communication (NFC) in packaging materials as a preventive measure.

Worldwide pharmaceutical sector is extremely vulnerable to the threat posed by counterfeit drugs. The International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA), a reliable source of knowledge in this area, points to a survey that shows continuous expansion for packaging anti-counterfeiting solutions.

Threat that counterfeit pharmaceuticals pose to the global pharmaceutical sector is quite real. According to IHMA, corporations in Europe alone might be considering losing revenues of up to USD 31.86 billion. It is set to be a result of worries about fake manufacturing techniques.

How Are Medical Packaging Manufacturers Addressing the Ongoing Sustainable Packaging Trend?

Plastics manufacturers must overcome hurdles such as sterile, fragile, or sensitive-to-temperature medical product requirements. There is hence an enormous scope and numerous possibilities for innovation.

Advancement of new bioplastics and revolutionary plastic recycling technologies might lead the way for a more sustainable future for medical packaging. These technologies can pave the way for a new, environmentally friendly future in the healthcare sector. It might be possible if paired with activities by medical device makers aimed at keeping sustainability and recycling at the forefront of packaging lifespans.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has several guidelines on sustainable packaging for the medical sector. These guidelines cover a range of topics which includes the use of recycled content, design for recyclability, and labeling of sustainable packaging.

Several medical equipment manufacturers are using recycled content in their packaging. This might help to reduce demand for virgin materials and divert waste from landfills. For instance, Honeywell uses recycled paperboard in its surgical instrument packaging.

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Ismail Sutaria

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How Can Pharma and Biological Packaging Translate into Expanding Medical Packaging Demand?

According to the Drug, Chemical & Associated Technologies Association, Inc., the Global pharma and biological packaging sector is projected to create an incremental opportunity of USD 1.6 trillion by 2025.

To maintain the safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical and biological goods, specialized packaging is required. This packaging must be sanitary, tamper-evident and resistant to degradation.

Increasing demand for ecological packaging in the pharmaceutical and biological sectors is likely to create new opportunities. Consumers are nowadays becoming more aware of the environmental impact of packaging and the need to eliminate waste.

Rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease requiring medical treatment might further push growth. Increasing geriatric population and rising healthcare costs are also expected to propel demand for cost-effective packaging solutions.

How Can Pharma and Biological Packaging Translate into Expanding Medical Packaging Demand?

  • Increased environmental concerns and demand for sustainable packaging solutions might limit sales.
  • Stringent regulations and compliance requirements for pharmaceutical packaging can hamper demand.
  • Rising costs of raw materials and manufacturing processes might obstruct demand.
  • Growing preference for generic medications with simplified packaging needs can impede demand.
  • Rapid shift toward telemedicine might reduce the need for traditional medical packaging.

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Country-wise Insights

Country United States
Market Share (2023) 11.4%
Market Share (2033) 10.6%
BPS Analysis -80
Country China
Market Share (2023) 9.3%
Market Share (2033) 10.2%
BPS Analysis 90
Country Germany
Market Share (2023) 3%
Market Share (2033) 3.3%
BPS Analysis 30
Country Japan
Market Share (2023) 3.7%
Market Share (2033) 3.5%
BPS Analysis -20
Country India
Market Share (2023) 3.1%
Market Share (2033) 4.3%
BPS Analysis 120

Will the United States Witness a High Medical Packaging Demand?

Need for Long-lasting Products in the United States to Fuel Demand for Medical Packaging Supplies

The United States medical packaging market is estimated to surge at a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period. Growing pharmaceutical sector in the country is projected to propel demand for medical packaging as a protective packaging solution.

The United States is predicted to be one of the dominant markets for medical packaging, mainly due to its stringent demanding policies. These are encouraging the development of long lasting, high-quality products in the country. The country also has numerous key competitors that have made the medical packaging industry extremely competitive.

Would China Create Growing Opportunities for Medical Packaging Companies?

Prevalence of Hospital Acquired Infections in China to Support Sales of Medicine Packaging

China medical packaging market is projected to create an incremental opportunity of USD 5.7 billion through 2033. As the country’s population continuously increases, the medical packaging industry is predicted to expand rapidly.

Market expansion might also be fueled by China’s economic development and global awareness. The market for implantable devices and single-use medical products is increasing in the country. Growing prevalence of hospital acquired infections is also anticipated to push medical packaging demand by 2033.

Category-wise Insights

Which is the Highly Popular Type of Packaging Format?

Bags and Pouches to be the Most Popular Formats to Meet Medical Device Packaging Standards

By packaging format, pouches and bags segments are anticipated to dominate the medical packaging industry in the assessment period. Bags and pouches come in various shapes and sizes. Hence, this might make them suitable for packaging a wide range of medical products, including solid, liquid, and powdered medications.

Bags and pouches would also provide a high level of protection against contamination, moisture, and external elements. They are set to help in ensuring the integrity and safety of numerous medical products.

Bags and pouches are lightweight, which can reduce shipping costs and environmental impact compared to heavier packaging materials. Manufacturers can easily customize bags and pouches with various features. These include resealable zippers, tear notches, and child-resistant closures to meet specific product & regulatory requirements.

Which is the Leading End-use Segment of Medical Packaging Worldwide?

Pharmaceutical and Biological Sectors to Extensively Utilize Medical Device Packaging Materials

The pharma and biological segment in terms of end use is estimated to generate a high demand for medical packaging. The segment is anticipated to create an incremental opportunity of 14.8 billion in the forecast period.

Medical packaging ensures the safety and integrity of pharmaceutical & biological products during storage, transportation, and distribution. It prevents contamination, tampering, and exposure to external elements, maintaining the product's efficacy and quality.

Pharmaceutical and biological sectors are heavily regulated, with strict packaging requirements to meet safety standards and ensure accurate labeling & dosage information. Proper medical packaging might help companies comply with these regulations.

Advanced medical packaging technologies such as barrier films and desiccants might help extend the shelf life of pharmaceutical and biological products. It can further help in reducing product wastage and enhancing supply chain efficiency.

Competitive Landscape

The global medical packaging market faces intense competition due to the presence of various competitors worldwide. Renowned companies are further intensifying the rivalry through acquisitions to strengthen their market positions. This competition is particularly evident as these players directly compete to secure contracts from leading pharmaceutical manufacturers.

To attract a larger customer base, packaging manufacturers are focusing on providing value-added services. They often incorporate branding and anti-counterfeit packaging methods, including overt and covert technologies such as QR codes and holographic images.

For instance,

  • In April 2022, Amcor Plc announced the launch of sustainable packaging high shield laminate in order to enhance its pharmaceutical packaging portfolio.
  • In July 2022, Steri Group announced its partnership with Inflexion in order to accelerate growth and geographical expansion. It is set to help enhance the company’s service offering to better support current and future customers.

Scope of the Report

Attribute Details
Estimated Market Size (2023) USD 78.3 billion
Projected Market Valuation (2033) USD 149.8 billion
Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) 6.7%
Historical Data 2018 to 2023
Forecast Period 2023 to 2033
Quantitative Units Value (USD million) and Volume (tons)
Segments Covered Material, Packaging Format, End Use, Region
Key Countries Covered United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, Italy, France, United Kingdom, Spain, Russia, GCC Countries, China, India, Australia
Key Companies Profiled SCHOTT Group; West Pharmaceutical Services; Gerresheimer AG; Steripack Group; Amcor PLC; Becton, Dickinson and Company; DWK Life Sciences GmbH; Sonoco Products Co.; Berry Global Inc.; Bormioli Pharma Srl
Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis

Medical Packaging Market Outlook by Category

By Material:

  • Plastic
  • Glass
  • Metal
  • Paper
  • Paperboard

By Packaging Format:

  • Bags
  • Tube
  • Sachet
  • Boxes
  • Trays
  • Pouches
  • Ampoule
  • Others (Container, Clamshells)

By End Use:

  • Pharma & Biological
  • Medical Supply
  • Medical Equipment
  • IVDs
  • Implants

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • East Asia
  • South Asia & Pacific
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • Central Asia
  • Russia & Belarus
  • Balkan & Baltic Countries
  • Middle East & Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Expected Size of the Worldwide Medical Packaging Market in 2023?

The worldwide medical packaging market is valued at USD 78.3 billion in 2023.

Who are the Key Medical Packaging Industry players?

SCHOTT Group, West Pharmaceutical Services, and Gerresheimer AG are the key medical packaging market players.

What is the Anticipated Worldwide Medical Packaging Market Size by 2033?

The worldwide medical packaging market will reach USD 149.8 billion by 2033.

What Factors are Driving the Medical Packaging Sales?

High demand from pharmaceutical industry is expected to drive the market growth.

Which is the Key Segment by Packaging Format in the Market?

Pouches and bags are likely to widely preferred in the market through 2033.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Key Market Trends
	4. Key Success Factors
	5. Global Market Demand Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	6. Global Market - Pricing Analysis
	7. Global Market Demand (in Value or Size in USD billion) Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	8. Market Background
	9. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Material
		9.1. Plastic
		9.2. Glass
		9.3. Metal
		9.4. Paper
		9.5. Paperboard
	10. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Packaging Format
		10.1. Bags
		10.2. Tube
		10.3. Sachet
		10.4. Boxes
		10.5. Trays
		10.6. Pouches
		10.7. Ampoule
		10.8. Others (Container, Clamshells)
	11. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End Use
		11.1. Pharma & Biological
		11.2. Medical Supply
		11.3. Medical Equipment
		11.4. IVDs
		11.5. Implants
	12. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region
		12.1. North America
		12.2. Latin America
		12.3. East Asia
		12.4. South Asia & Pacific
		12.5. Western Europe
		12.6. Eastern Europe
		12.7. Central Asia
		12.8. Russia & Belarus
		12.9. Balkan & Baltics & Baltic Countries
		12.10. Middle East and Africa
	13. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	14. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	15. East Asia Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	16. South Asia & Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	17. Western Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	18. Eastern Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	19. Central Asia Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	20. Russia & Belarus Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	21. Balkan & Baltics & Baltic Countries Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	22. Middle East & Africa Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033
	23. Country-wise Market Analysis 2023 & 2033
	24. Market Structure Analysis
	25. Competition Analysis
		25.1. Schott AG
		25.2. West Pharmaceutical Services
		25.3. Gerresheimer AG
		25.4. Becton, Dickinson and Company
		25.5. Amcor Plc
		25.6. DWK Life Sciences GmbH
		25.7. Bormioli Pharma Srl
		25.8. Steripack Group
		25.9. Sonoco Products Co.
		25.10. Berry Global Inc.
	26. Assumptions and Acronyms Used
	27. Research Methodology
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