Softgel Capsules Market

Softgel Capsules Market Outlook (2023 to 2033)

The global softgel capsules market size stands at US$ 1.17 billion in 2023. As per the recently published research report by Fact.MR, worldwide sales of softgel capsules are predicted to rise at a CAGR of 6.3% and reach US$ 2.16 billion by 2033-end.

Diverse use of softgel capsules in the pharmaceutical industry for the treatment of inflammatory, cardiovascular, and other diseases is predicted to boost their demand globally. Rising prevalence of these diseases and advancements in manufacturing techniques are projected to open up lucrative opportunities for industry players.

In response to the growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, emerging industry players have been actively investing in research and development (R&D) initiatives. The increasing focus on utilizing softgel capsules for vitamin and mineral supplementation is expected to create favorable market growth prospects over the next decade.

Governments from many countries around the world are increasing their spending in the medicine & healthcare industry. Moreover, rising awareness of the risk of cardiovascular diseases is predicted to lead to rising sales of softgel capsules. The growing per capita investment by many people in healthcare is also estimated to impact softgel capsules market growth opportunities.

Softgel capsules are more appealing to numerous consumers due to their availability in different colors, sizes, and forms. The diverse drug delivery system offering multiple options, including meltable softgels and chewable softgels is also anticipated to attract consumers to the market.

Producers of softgel capsules are expanding their product lines to provide a wide variety of vegan capsules that are available with improved attributes, including enteric coatings, increased gastric acid resistance, faster disintegration, and specially developed capsules produced for clinical studies. These products are forecasted to help softgel capsules market players maximize their revenue share in the coming decade.

Fact.MR, a leading market research and competitive intelligence provider, has published a comprehensive research report examining the diverse dynamics of the softgel capsules market. This recently published report provides a detailed analysis of factors influencing market expansion, including a regional overview, new developments, growth drivers, key limitations, restraining factors, key product ranges, etc., to help readers get a thorough understanding of the market.

Report Attributes	Details
Softgel Capsules Market Size (2022)	US$ 1.10 Billion
Global Market Size (2023)	US$ 1.17 Billion
Projected Market Value (2033)	US$ 2.16 Billion
Global Market Growth Rate (2023 to 2033)	6.3% CAGR
Key Companies Profiled	Fuji Capsule Co.; Aeniva Group GmbH; Sirio Pharma Biological Limited; EuroCaps Ltd.; Catalent, Inc.; Guandong Yichao Biological Co., Ltd.; Captek Softgel International Inc.; Soft Gel Technological Inc.; Hunan Er-Kang Pharmaceutical Co.; Curtis Health Caps; United Labs; Procaps; Elnova Pharma; Patheon; Delpharm Evreux

What Key Determinants are Strongly Favoring Softgel Capsule Producers?

“Increasing Adoption of Softgel Capsules in Pharmaceutical Sector”

Softgel capsules are highly sought-after products that are preferred in the pharmaceutical industry for different applications, including nutrition supplements and anti-inflammatory drugs. The increasing number of clinical trials evaluating the efficiency of softgel capsules in treating several ailments is also stimulating growth opportunities.

“Growing Demand for Plant-based Softgel Capsules Driven by Rising Adoption of Veganism & Vegetarianism”

Non-animal softgel capsules, or vegetarian softgel capsules, are derived from plant-based resources. These capsules are produced without the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or animal derivatives. Furthermore, they are free from modified sugar and gluten.

No animal byproduct is used in the manufacturing of vegetarian softgel capsules. This distinct characteristic makes them suitable for people who do not consume products sourced from animals. These capsules stand out while considering bioavailability, absorption, and stability. Vegan softgel capsules dissolve better at room temperature in water in comparison to gelatin-based capsules.

There are no potential risks associated with the consumption of vegetarian softgel capsules. Thus, based on these factors, sales of vegetarian softgel capsules are estimated to increase, especially among vegans and vegetarians.

What are the Restraints Faced by Manufacturers of Softgel Capsules?

“High Production Cost and Complex Processing Cycles Associated with Softgel Capsules”

Softgel capsules are used extensively in the production of nutritional and medicinal supplements. There are a few hurdles that are predicted to restrain market expansion. The costly production process, involvement of complex process cycles, and requirement of a special laboratory setup are estimated to adversely impact market expansion opportunities.

Drugs are sensitive to moisture, which affects their stability. Additionally, limitations in drug formulation can arise from the characteristics of the capsule shell. Another factor that can potentially hinder market growth is the need for expertise in drug handling and development.

How are Start-ups Expected to Penetrate the Softgel Capsules Landscape?

“Adoption of New Technologies for 3D Printing of Softgel Capsules”

Start-ups are investing in new technologies to offer alternatives to conventional drug delivery systems as this industry is in its infancy. For instance, the introduction of new technologies, including 3D printing of softgel capsules, can be a game-changer for market players.

These newly produced capsules are estimated to help in product differentiation through branding. In addition, it is also predicted to reduce the risk of counterfeiting and ensure a higher level of quality control while identifying fake products.

Country-wise Insights

What Makes the United States a Key Market for Softgel Capsule Manufacturers?

“Rising Prevalence of Cardiovascular Diseases Leading to Increased Consumption of Softgel Capsules”

Manufacturers of softgel capsules are witnessing a significant increase in demand from the pharmaceutical & healthcare sector. This demand for softgel capsules is attributed to the rising cases of cardiovascular diseases in the United States.

• The American Heart Association published a report entitled “2021 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Update” on January 27, 2021. According to the report, in the United States, cardiovascular diseases are one of the primary causes of death.

According to a report by Select USA, the incorporation of numerous cutting-edge technologies in the diagnostics, pharmaceutical, and medical sectors is predicted to change the outlook of the market in the United States.

Why is Germany a Highly Lucrative Market for Suppliers of Softgel Capsules?

“Increasing Investments in Healthcare Industry”

Advancements in the manufacturing sector and the growing demand for softgel capsules from the healthcare industry are projected to open up lucrative opportunities for players. In addition, increasing expenditure in the healthcare sector is also projected to create ample opportunities for players.

For instance :

• The report titled "Germany - Health Care & Long-Term Care Systems" projects a 1.3 PPS (positive pay system) increase in healthcare spending as a percentage of GDP (gross domestic product) until 2026.

Why are Manufacturers of Softgel Capsules Focusing on India?

“Rapidly Growing Pharmaceutical Industry Boosting Sales of Softgel Capsules”

India is emerging as one of the prominent markets in the Asia Pacific region due to the presence of the highly progressive pharmaceutical and healthcare sector. Rising investments in R&D activities by industry players to cater to the growing demand for softgel capsule manufacturers are also driving market growth.

For instance :

• The National Investment Promotion & Facilitation Agency of India published a research report titled “Pharmaceutical Industry in India: Invest in Pharma Sector” in Invest India on March 22, 2021. According to the report, the pharmaceutical industry of India ranks third in the world based on production by volume. Based on value, it holds the 14th position globally.

The country has a significant count of FDA-compliant pharma after the United States. Therefore, these factors are clear indications of why suppliers of softgel capsules are moving toward India.

Category-wise Insights

What Makes Gelatin Softgel Capsules the Most Popular?

“High Demand for Gelatin Softgel Capsules as Ideal Solution for Fat-soluble Oils & Formulations”

Demand for gelatin-based softgel capsules is increasing at a significant rate. There are numerous factors that are contributing to their rising sales. For instance, gelatin softgel capsules are ideal for fat-soluble oils and formulations.

In terms of digestion, gelatin-based softgel capsules are comparatively better than capsules that are non-gelatin-based. Moreover, complete protection as well as encapsulation of numerous sensitive ingredients from tempering is ensured in gelatin-based softgel capsules.

Which End-use Industry Accounts for a Dominant Market Share?

“Widespread Utilization of Softgel Capsules in Pharmaceutical Sector for Production of Vitamin Supplements and Anti-inflammatory Drugs”

The pharmaceutical industry generates high demand for various types of softgel capsules, such as gelatin type B, gelatin type A, and others. These capsules are extensively utilized in the pharmaceutical sector for vitamin supplements, anti-inflammatory drugs, and cardiovascular medications.

Key Market Players

Quality control, strengthening supply chain management systems, and maintaining product standards are some noteworthy initiatives taken by key players to expand their footprints across the globe.

Increasing competition among players is contributing to the development of a wide variety of products to completely leverage the potential of the industry.

For instance:

• In April 2022, Aenova started to construct a new structure at its Regensburg location for some highly potent active substances. These modern manufacturing facilities develop extremely efficient pharmaceuticals, especially for cancer.
• Aneova released VegaGels in November 2020. They are their most recent softgel capsules produced from vegan products. They adhere to American, European Union, and Chinese regulatory requirements.

Fuji Capsule Co., Aeniva Group GmbH, Sirio Pharma Biological Limited, EuroCaps Ltd., Catalent, Inc., Guandong Yichao Biological Co., Ltd., Captek Softgel International Inc., Soft Gel Technological Inc., Hunan Er-Kang Pharmaceutical Co., Curtis Health Caps, United Labs, Procaps, Elnova Pharma, Patheon, and Delpharm Evreux are some prominent suppliers of softgel capsules around the world.

Segmentation of Softgel Capsules Industry Research

• By Product :

  • Gelatin
  • Non-gelatin

• By Application :

  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Healthcare

• By Region :

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East & Africa