Pharma Grade Plastic Packaging Market Outlook from 2024 to 2034

The global sales of pharma-grade plastic packaging are estimated to be worth USD 56.6 billion in 2024 and are anticipated to reach a value of USD 74.2 billion by 2034. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 3.0% over the forecast period between 2024 and 2034. The revenue generated by pharma-grade plastic packaging in 2023 was USD 54 billion. The industry is anticipated to exhibit a Y-o-Y growth of 2.5% in 2024.

Pharma-grade plastic bottles are mostly sold in the global market driven by their versatility and diverse applications among the different pharmaceutical products. Plastic bottles can be used for sold medicines, liquid syrups, and topical medication.

Plastic bottles are light in weight, durable and inexpensive which makes them a preferred option for pharmaceutical companies when compared to other materials. Plastic bottles also provide an excellent barrier to the medications and protect them from external factors preventing contamination. The rising focus on sustainability has pushed the use of recycled plastic bottles driven by advanced manufacturing and recycling technologies.

Global Pharma Grade Plastic Packaging Industry Assessment

Attributes Key Insights
Historical Size, 2023 USD 54 billion
Estimated Size, 2024 USD 56.6 billion
Projected Size, 2034 USD 74.2 billion
Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) 3.0%

In pharma grade plastic packaging, polyethylene is mostly used in manufacturing pharmaceutical packaging. The material is more favoured by the companies because of its chemical resistance, durability, and moisture barrier properties.

This material is highly recyclable and fulfill all the standard regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical industry. The easy molding ability and advanced technology in manufacturing has increased the use of polyethylene especially high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in pharmaceutical packaging.

The pharma grade plastic packaging industry is set to experience moderate growth during the forecast period. It is projected to create an incremental opportunity of USD 19.2 billion and is predicted to rise 1.3 times the current market value through 2034.

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Semi Annual Market Update

The above table presents the expected CAGR for the global pharma grade plastic packaging market over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2024 to 2034. In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2023 to 2033, the business is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 3.2%, followed by a slightly lower growth rate of 2.9% in the second half (H2) of the same decade.

Particular Value CAGR
H1 3.2% (2023 to 2033)
H2 2.9% (2023 to 2033)
H1 2.8% (2024 to 2034)
H2 3.1% (2024 to 2034)

Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2034, the CAGR is projected to increase slightly to 2.8% in the first half and remain relatively moderate at 3.1% in the second half. In the first half (H1) the market witnessed a decrease of 40 BPS while in the second half (H2), the market witnessed an increase of 20 BPS.

Key Industry Highlights

Rising Need for Personalized Packaging Due to Pharmacogenomics

The rising number of deaths due to adverse drug reactions (ADR) has been creating huge demand and increasing research for personalized medications.

The condition also known as pharmacogenomics is a new and trending healthcare service that targets tailor-made treatments and medicines specifically for individuals. These medications and dosages are genetically customized for the patients to reduce adverse drug reactions and improve the treatment efficacy.

For instance, the HIV medication is done by genetic tests for genome tracing projects before the administration. Also, Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is expanding into different applications in the healthcare sector especially in the United States including community pharmacies.

The rising trend of personalized packaging is becoming more prevalent in future and create the demand for unique packaging solutions. This also generates the demand for contract manufacturing organizations to meet the tailor-made pharmaceutical packaging demand.

Elevated Demand for Sustainable Packaging Solutions Healthcare

Pharma-grade plastic packaging is highly affected by the sustainability issues which has given a driving force to recyclable and biodegradable packaging solutions in future. The global shift to eco-conscious practices, lifestyle choices, and sustainability matrices has become critical need of the current period.

For instance, a survey revealed that more than 50% of people in America have opted for sustainable packaging in the pharmaceutical industry. The consumers are aligning with the brands who are experimenting with eco-friendly packaging solutions. Compostable, and biodegradable plastic packaging has become a different factor that will gain further traction in the upcoming period.

Recently, Bayer in association with Pulpac has announced that they are using dry molded fiber technology by joining the blister pack collective initiative which reduces the 100,000 tonnes of waste in medicine plastic packaging.

Post-consumer recycled plastic has gained significant importance in the recent period which is priming the circular economy and receding plastic waste. While there are certain challenges associated with it that need to be removed. PCR helps in sustainability by reducing plastic waste, and carbon footprints.

Pharma-grade packaging made from PCR helps maintain product integrity by reducing contamination from bacteria, and UV, and maintaining inert quantities of maledictions. Sustainability in pharma grade packaging will be a continued focus for the industry in 2024 and beyond.

Ismail Sutaria
Ismail Sutaria

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2019 to 2023 Global Pharma Grade Plastic Packaging Sales Outlook Compared to Demand Forecast from 2024 to 2034

The global pharma-grade plastic packaging industry recorded a CAGR of 2.1% during the historical period between 2019 and 2023. The growth of the pharma-grade plastic packaging industry was positive as it reached a value of USD 54 billion in 2023 from USD 51 billion in 2019.

Pharma-grade plastic packaging is majorly driven by the need for materials that provide safety and efficacy to drugs, medicines and other pharmaceutical products. Pharma-grade plastic packaging is important for offering tamper evidence and child resistance for preventing product counterfeiting. Also, the materials need to be of high quality meeting the stringent regulatory standards which has pushed the need for pharma grade plastic packaging.

The increasing demand for customization and designs for end-use applications to generate a positive impression and branding to please the customers. The market is driven by the need for versatile, secure, and eco-friendly packaging solutions along with protecting pharma products from contamination for consumer safety and regulatory implications.

Pharma-grade plastic packaging solutions must be well regulated with industry standards set by the government and associations including the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

The rising focus on safety, hygiene, and personal care puts more importance on compliance with these standards to maintain the safety, quality and performance of medications and drugs. This compliance also helps to gain consumer trust in your product which is necessary for growth.

Pharma-grade plastic packaging is also becoming smart by using advanced technology. The inclusion of smart features in pharmaceutical packaging helps in original product identification, eliminating moisture, extending shelf life, and tracking and trace of packaging. This has also included the connection of patients’ devices and offers easy patient accessibility.

Tamper-evident packaging has also become essential due to increasing tampering and counterfeiting. Biodegradable and recyclable packaging also become essential in the market to reduce waste and highlight the importance of innovative packaging solutions.

Pharma-grade packaging is becoming an innovative product launched and development. The packaging comes with seals, labels, and closures that reveal the tamper evidence. This innovative packaging is essential in the rise of pharmaceutical-grade plastic packaging for reducing tampering and counterfeiting.

Market Concentration

Tier 1 companies in the global pharma grade plastic packaging industry include Nolato AB, Gerresheimer AG, Berry Global, Inc., Amcor plc, AptarGroup, Inc, West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc., Schott AG with market revenue above USD 2 billion.

These manufacturers are market leaders in pharma grade plastic packaging within global industry having extensive production capacity, different product offerings, and extensive manufacturing expertise. These companies are capturing around 10% to 20% of global market share in the pharma grade plastic packaging industry.

Tier 2 of the global pharma grade plastic packaging industry incorporates companies like Drug Plastics Group, Alpla Werke Alwin Lehner GmbH & Co KG, Parekhplast India Limited, Nipro Corporation, West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc., Alpha Packaging Company, Mykron Plus India Pvt. Ltd, Comar LLC , Alpack Inc with revenue of USD 1 to 2 billion.

They have limited presence, and well-maintained knowledge but may not have expertise and advanced manufacturing technology. These manufacture have mostly limited regional presence having knowledge and demand of regional market dynamics.

Tier 3 category in the global pharma grade plastic packaging market includes the small-scale players of the region with revenue below USD 1 million. These companies fulfil the local market demand and are recognized as an unorganized market. They have a country level presence, limited manufacturing facilities, and expertise in local market needs. They are well established in local market and fulfill the local market demands.

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Country-wise Insights

The section below covers the industry analysis of the pharma grade plastic packaging market for different countries. Market demand analysis on key countries in several regions of the globe, including North America, South Asia & Pacific, East Asia, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and others, is provided.

North America and Europe are leading in the market with maximum market share. South Asia Pacific, East Asia, and MEA has anticipated to record high growth rate during forecast period.

Countries Value CAGR (2024 to 2034)
USA 1.8%
Germany 1.2%
UK 1.6%
Canada 2.6%
India 4.1%
China 3.9%
Japan 2.8%
Brazil 3.3%

Growing Pharmaceutical Industry in India to Elevate Sales

India is expected to hold almost 50% the value share of the South Asia and Pacific region by 2034. The India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) have recently reported that the Indian pharmaceutical industry is anticipated to register a total valuation of approximately USD 65 billion by the end of 2024 and reach around USD 130 billion by 2030 end.

Elevating demand from the pharmaceutical industry in the country for safe and secure packaging using sustainable materials is projected to increase the adoption of pharma-grade plastic packaging solutions. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases, the emergence of sudden pandemics, and high healthcare expenditures in India are also contributing to market growth.

Aging Population in Japan Fuels the Market

Aged people are more prone to chronic diseases which is an effective driving factor for the vaccine packaging market. In Japan, 1 out of 10 people are above 80 years or older and the country is rated to have the world’s oldest population.

According to the World Economic Forum, almost 1/3rd of Japan's population is over 65 years which accounts for 36.23 million people contributing to the geriatric population. The rising age results in an increasing number of diseases and health issues which generate the demand for pharma grade plastic packaging in the country. Japan is anticipated to at 2.8% CAGR and capture 22% of market share in East Asia by 2034 end.

Rising Prevalence of Cancer in USA

The USA leads in North America with more than 76% of the market share in 2024 and is anticipated to expand at 1.8% CAGR by the end of the assessment period. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 1,603,844 cancer cases were reported in the United States out of which 602,347 died due to cancer in the year 2020. 403 new cancer cases are being reported for every 100,000 people out of which 104 died because of cancer.

These deaths are because of the unavailability of treatments and medications for treating and saving patients. This is expected to create a focus on clinical trials to develop drugs for cancer treatment in the USA which significantly drive the demand for pharma grade plastic packaging including vials, syringes, etc. in the region for prevention and treatment of such diseases.

Competitive Landscape

Several prominent players in the pharma grade plastic packaging market are significantly investing in innovation, research, and development to discover new applications and enhance their offerings. Manufactures prioritize safety, product quality, and customer satisfaction to expand their customer base.

Key manufacturers of pharma grade plastic packaging are focusing on developing recycled material packaging and developing packaging solutions to meet sustainability demand. They are adopting a merger & acquisition strategy to expand their resources and are developing new products to meet customer needs.

Recent Industry Developments in Pharma Grade Plastic Packaging Market

  • In January 2024, Bormioli Pharma with Loop Industries unveiled an innovative pharmaceutical packaging bottle manufactured with 100% recycled virgin quality Loop PET resin at Pharmapack 2024.
  • In May 2024, Gerresheimer, has announced that they have expanded its production capacities for medical systems such as inhalers and autoinjectors in the United States.
  • In April 2024, Berry Global Group, Inc announced the investment to increase its healthcare production capacity by up to 30% across three of its European sites in additional assets and manufacturing capabilities.

Key Players of Pharma Grade Plastic Packaging Industry

  • Nolato AB 
  • Gerresheimer AG
  • Berry Global, Inc.
  • Amcor plc
  • AptarGroup, Inc
  • West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.
  • Schott AG
  • Drug Plastics Group
  • Alpla Werke Alwin Lehner GmbH & Co KG
  • Parekhplast India Limited
  • Nipro Corporation
  • West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.
  • Alpha Packaging Company
  • Mykron Plus India Pvt. Ltd
  • Comar LLC
  • Alpack Inc.
  • Bormioli Pharma S.p.a.
  • United States Plastic Corporation
  • Origin Pharma Packaging
  • Pretium Packaging
  • Weener Plastics Group BV
  • Pro-Pac Packaging Group
  • Silgan Holdings Inc
  • Frapak Packaging b.v.
  • Altium Packaging
  • Klöckner Pentaplast Group
  • Becton, Dickinson and Company
  • Mondi Plc
  • Sealed Air Corporation
  • Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH
  • Wipak Group

Key Segments of Pharma Grade Plastic Packaging Industry

By Product Type:

Pharma grade plastic packaging industry is divided into bottles, blisters, vials & ampoules, syringes, pouches, and other (tubes, cartridges).

By Material Type:

Pharma grade plastic packaging industry is segregated into polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (pet), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), and other.

By Application:

The industry is classified by oral drugs, injectable drugs, topical medications, inhalable medications, transdermal patches, and diagnostic devices.

By End Use:

The industry is classified by end use as pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies, contract manufacturing organizations (CMO), hospitals and clinics and research laboratories.

By Region:

Key countries of North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, South Asia & Pacific, East Asia, and Middle East and Africa (MEA), have been covered in the report.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the future of global pharma grade plastic packaging industry?

The global pharma grade plastic packaging industry is projected to witness CAGR of 3.0% between 2024 and 2034.

What was the worth of the global pharma grade plastic packaging industry in 2023?

The global pharma grade plastic packaging industry stood at USD 54 billion in 2023.

What will the worth of global pharma grade plastic packaging industry by 2034 end?

The global pharma grade plastic packaging industry is anticipated to reach USD 74.2 billion by 2034 end.

Which region to showcase the highest CAGR during forecast period?

South Asia and Pacific is set to record the highest CAGR of 4.8% in the assessment period.

Who are the key manufacturer of global pharma grade plastic packaging industry?

The key players operating in the global pharma grade plastic packaging industry include includes Nolato AB, Gerresheimer AG, Berry Global, Inc., Amcor plc, AptarGroup, Inc, West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc., Schott AG.

Table of Content
1. Executive Summary
2. Industry Introduction
    2.1. Market Taxonomy
    2.2. Market Definition
3. Market Trends and Success Factors
4. Market Background
    4.1. Macro-economic and Industry Outlook
    4.2. Market Dynamics
    4.3. Value Chain Analysis
    4.4. List of Key Market Participants (Manufacturers/Channel Partners)
    4.5. Analysis of Key Industry Matrices
    4.6. Industry Development Roadmap
5. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
    5.1. Historical Market Volume Analysis
    5.2. Future Market Volume Projections
6. Pricing Analysis
7. Global Market Value (USD) Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
    7.1. Historical Sales Analysis
    7.2. Future Market Size and Growth Projections
8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Product
    8.1. Bottles
    8.2. Blisters
    8.3. Vials & Ampoules
    8.4. Syringes
    8.5. Pouches
    8.6. Other (Tubes, Cartridges)
9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Material Type
    9.1. Polyethylene (PE)
    9.2. Polypropylene (PP)
    9.3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
    9.4. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
    9.5. Polystyrene (PS)
    9.6. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
    9.7. Polycarbonate (PC)
    9.8. Others
10. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Application
    10.1. Oral Drugs
    10.2. Injectable Drugs
    10.3. Topical Medications
    10.4. Inhalable Medications
    10.5. Transdermal Patches
    10.6. Diagnostic Devices
11. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By End-User
    11.1. Pharmaceutical Companies
    11.2. Biotechnology Companies
    11.3. Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs)
    11.4. Hospitals and Clinics
    11.5. Research Laboratories
12. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, 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. Middle East & Africa
13. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
14. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
15. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
16. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
17. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
18. South Asia & Pacific Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
19. Middle East and Africa (MEA) Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
20. Sales Analysis 2024 & 2034 by Key Market Segments for 30 Countries
21. Competition Outlook including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard
22. Company Profile
    22.1. Nolato AB
    22.2. Gerresheimer AG
    22.3. Berry Global, Inc.
    22.4. Amcor plc
    22.5. AptarGroup, Inc
    22.6. West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.
    22.7. Schott AG
    22.8. Drug Plastics Group
    22.9. Alpla Werke Alwin Lehner GmbH & Co KG
    22.10. Parekhplast India Limited
    22.11. Nipro Corporation
    22.12. West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.
    22.13. Alpha Packaging Company
    22.14. Mykron Plus India Pvt. Ltd
    22.15. Comar LLC
    22.16. Alpack Inc.
    22.17. Bormioli Pharma S.p.a.
    22.18. United States Plastic Corporation
    22.19. Origin Pharma Packaging
    22.20. Pretium Packaging
    22.21. Weener Plastics Group BV
    22.22. Pro-Pac Packaging Group
    22.23. Silgan Holdings Inc
    22.24. Frapak Packaging b.v.
    22.25. Altium Packaging
    22.26. Klöckner Pentaplast Group
    22.27. Becton, Dickinson and Company
    22.28. Mondi Plc
    22.29. Sealed Air Corporation
    22.30. Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH
    22.31. Wipak Group

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