MEA Diabetes Market Analysis

Middle East and Africa Diabetes Market (Global, 2024)

Introduction

The Middle East and Africa diabetes market is projected to grow at a significant rate, owing to the rise in the prevalence of diabetes, the increase in the awareness of the disease, and the availability of advanced treatment options. The region faces certain challenges such as the lack of proper healthcare facilities and the socio-economic conditions, which affect the management and prevention of diabetes. However, as the population is growing rapidly and lifestyle changes are taking place, the demand for diabetes management solutions is expected to increase. Government initiatives to improve the availability of health care and raise public awareness are expected to play a major role in the growth of the market. Telemedicine and digital health are expected to further increase the scope for managing diabetes. The market dynamics are crucial for the companies, which want to understand the opportunities and challenges in this important area of the health care sector.

PESTLE Analysis

Political

In 2024, the Middle East and Africa region is concentrating on the prevention of non-communicable diseases, including diabetes. For example, in the Middle East, 15 of the 22 countries have implemented national diabetes strategies and invested more than $200 million in public health. Also, the stability of the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia has led to a substantial increase in public health funding, with the UAE government allocating $1.5 billion to health in 2024.

Economic

The economy of the Middle East and Africa is characterized by the growing burden of diabetes, which by 2024 is expected to cost the region more than 30 billion dollars. It is estimated that by 2025, the number of people with diabetes in the region will reach 30 million. Governments are responding to this burden by investing in prevention, with the South African government earmarking 50 million dollars in 2024 to raise awareness and management of diabetes.

Social

In the Arab world, the awareness of diabetes and its consequences is on the increase. In 2024, it is estimated that 65% of the population of cities is aware of the risk factors for diabetes, a significant increase from the 50% in 2020. Awareness has led to changes in lifestyle, with a 20% increase in the number of people taking part in diabetes prevention programmes. In addition, the role of community health workers is growing, with over 1,000 community health workers trained in diabetes management and prevention across the region.

Technological

In the Middle East and Africa, the technological developments are crucial to diabetes management. In 2024, it is estimated that the use of telemedicine for diabetes will increase by 40 per cent, with over 2 million patients using remote monitoring devices. Moreover, the introduction of mobile health applications has improved the engagement of the patients. More than 500 000 diabetes management applications have been downloaded in the region. These technological developments are improving the access to care and the health outcomes for diabetes patients.

Legal

In the Middle East and Africa, the legal framework for diabetes care is developing, with many countries introducing stricter regulations on food labeling and advertising. It is reported that by 2024, ten countries had already enacted laws requiring food manufacturers to clearly label the sugar content of their products, affecting over 1,500 food manufacturers. In addition, some countries have also begun to implement stricter laws on the advertising of unhealthy foods to children, with fines reaching as high as $100,000. This also makes it easier for people to choose a healthy diet.

Environmental

The role of the environment in the epidemic of diabetes in the Middle East and Africa is becoming increasingly recognised. In 2024, it has been found that urbanisation leads to an increase in diabetes of up to 25 per cent, owing to the changes in lifestyle associated with urban life. In major cities such as Cairo and Jo’burg, air pollution has been reported to be over 100 micrograms per cubic metre, which is associated with an increase in diabetes and other chronic diseases. Some governments have invested in green space and in active transport, to counteract these environmental impacts.

Porter's Five Forces

Threat of New Entrants

The barriers to entry in the Middle East and African diabetes market are moderate, because of the regulatory requirements and the need for significant investment in research and development. However, the growing prevalence of diabetes and the increasing demand for new therapies attract new entrants, thereby influencing the threat of new entrants.

Bargaining Power of Suppliers

Suppliers in the diabetes market, especially those supplying the raw materials for drugs and devices, have limited bargaining power. There are many suppliers and companies can easily switch suppliers, reducing the power of any one supplier.

Bargaining Power of Buyers

The buyers, both health care professionals and patients, have high bargaining power because of the availability of different treatment options and the growing awareness of diabetes. Moreover, the growing demand for individualized treatment has further increased their bargaining power. They can demand better prices and services.

Threat of Substitutes

The threat of substitutes in the diabetes market is moderate, since there are alternatives such as diet, herbal remedies and non-pharmaceutical interventions. These, however, are not always as effective and as widely accepted as the products of the pharmaceutical industry, which may limit their influence on the market.

Competitive Rivalry

Competition in the Middle East and Africa diabetes market is very high, mainly driven by the large number of established players and new entrants. The market is highly fragmented. Companies are innovating and improving their products, which has led to aggressive marketing strategies and price competition, further intensifying competition.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

• Increasing prevalence of diabetes leading to higher demand for management solutions.
• Growing awareness and education about diabetes care among healthcare professionals and patients.
• Advancements in technology and innovation in diabetes management devices and medications.

Weaknesses

• Limited access to healthcare facilities in rural areas affecting diabetes management.
• High cost of diabetes medications and devices may restrict affordability for many patients.
• Inconsistent healthcare policies and regulations across different countries in the region.

Opportunities

• Expansion of telemedicine and digital health solutions to improve patient access and monitoring.
• Potential for partnerships between local and international companies to enhance product offerings.
• Government initiatives aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure and diabetes awareness.

Threats

• Rising prevalence of obesity and sedentary lifestyles contributing to increased diabetes cases.
• Economic instability in certain regions may impact healthcare spending.
• Competition from alternative therapies and natural remedies gaining popularity among patients.

Summary

In 2024, the diabetes market in the Middle East and Africa will be characterized by major strengths such as rising demand and technological advancements, but also by a few weaknesses such as low access and high cost. Opportunities for growth are expansion of digital health solutions and strategic alliances. Threats are changes in lifestyle and economic factors. The market can be sustained only by concentrating on the strengths and opportunities and overcoming the weaknesses and threats.