Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market Size

Market Size Snapshot

Note – Market size depicts the revenue generated over the financial year

The market for pharmaceutical gelatin is expected to grow steadily, from a current market size of $ 3,349,440,000 in 2024 to $ 5,413,740,000 by 2035. This represents an annual increase of 4.38% from 2025 to 2035. This increase in the demand for gelatin in the pharmaceutical industry, driven by the increasing use of gelatin in the manufacture of capsules, sachets and vaccines, is one of the main reasons for this growth. The evolution of the health sector, the growing need for new and more effective drug formulations, will also continue to drive this market. Also, technological developments in the manufacture and processing of gelatin will play an important role in this growth. The development of vegetarian and non-animal gelatins, which are suitable for the dietary needs of vegetarians and those who suffer from aversion to animal products, is also expected to contribute to this growth. The key players in the pharmaceutical gelatin market, such as Gelita AG, Rousselot and PB Gelatins, are involved in strategic initiatives, such as joint ventures and research and development, to enhance their product offerings and maintain their competitive advantage. These efforts not only contribute to the growth of the market, but also to the growing focus on sustainable and health-conscious products.

Regional Market Size

Regional Deep Dive

The pharmaceutical gelatin market is characterized by a high demand across various regions, driven by the increasing use of gelatin in the formulation of medicines, in the manufacture of capsules and as a stabilizer in vaccines. In North America, the market is supported by advanced pharmaceutical research and development, while Europe is supported by the strict regulatory framework ensuring high quality standards. The Asia-Pacific region is characterized by a high growth rate due to the rising health expenditure and the flourishing pharmaceutical industry. The Middle East and Africa are gradually expanding their market share due to investments in the medical sector. Latin America, although underdeveloped, has significant growth potential due to the growing awareness of the use of gelatin in pharmaceuticals.

Europe

• The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has introduced new regulations aimed at improving the traceability of gelatin used in pharmaceuticals, which is expected to enhance safety and efficacy in drug delivery systems.
• Companies such as PB Gelatins and Gelita AG are focusing on sustainable sourcing of raw materials, aligning with the EU's Green Deal initiative, which aims to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050.

Asia Pacific

• The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing a surge in pharmaceutical manufacturing, with countries like India and China ramping up production capabilities, leading to increased demand for gelatin in drug formulations.
• Innovations in gelatin extraction processes are being spearheaded by local companies, such as Nitta Gelatin, which are focusing on improving yield and reducing environmental impact, thus enhancing market competitiveness.

Latin America

• Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) has implemented new regulations that encourage the use of gelatin in pharmaceutical applications, which is expected to boost local production.
• Local companies are increasingly collaborating with international firms to enhance their gelatin production capabilities, reflecting a trend towards globalization in the pharmaceutical sector.

North America

• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently updated its guidelines on the use of gelatin in pharmaceutical applications, promoting higher safety standards that are expected to enhance product quality and consumer trust.
• Key players like Gelita AG and Rousselot are investing in innovative gelatin formulations that cater to the growing demand for vegan and vegetarian alternatives, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences.

Middle East And Africa

• The Middle East is seeing increased investments in healthcare infrastructure, with governments in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE prioritizing pharmaceutical development, which is expected to drive demand for gelatin.
• Regulatory bodies in the region are beginning to adopt international standards for pharmaceutical products, which will likely lead to higher quality gelatin products entering the market.

Did You Know?

“Did you know that gelatin is not only used in pharmaceuticals but also plays a crucial role in the food industry, with approximately 40% of the world's gelatin production being utilized in food products?” — International Gelatin Manufacturers Association (IGMA)

Segmental Market Size

The pharmaceutical gelatin market is a vital segment of the pharmaceutical industry. It is currently growing steadily, mainly because of the increasing demand for capsules and other dosage forms. Moreover, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases requires more effective drug delivery systems, and the increasing popularity of gelatin-based products is based on their biocompatibility and digestibility. The regulatory environment is favourable for the use of gelatin in the pharmaceutical industry, because of the safety and efficacy of the drug delivery system. The market is now in its mature phase, with companies like Gelita AG and Rousselot leading in production and innovation. Hard and soft capsules are the most important applications, followed by pharmaceutical coatings, which are used to increase the stability and bioavailability of the drug. However, the increasing focus on sustainability and the trend towards plant-based alternatives are driving growth, and companies are now looking at alternatives such as fish gelatin. The evolution of pharmaceutical gelatine is being influenced by new technologies such as 3D printing and advanced encapsulation. The latter allows the formulation of a more efficient and targeted drug delivery system.

Future Outlook

From 2024 to 2035, the global pharmaceutical gelatin market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.45%. The demand for gelatin-based pharmaceuticals is increasing, especially for the production of capsules and drug delivery systems. The aging of the population and the increase in chronic diseases will drive the development of effective and safe drugs, thus driving the pharmaceutical gelatin market. In 2035, the gelatin market will account for about one-quarter of the total pharmaceutical excipients market, an increase of about 6%, indicating a strong increase in the proportion of use. The development of high-purity gelatin and the innovation of encapsulation technology will also drive the market. Moreover, the promotion of the use of biocompatible materials in the formulation of medicines by the government will also create a good environment for the development of pharmaceutical gelatin. In addition, the increasing popularity of vegetarianism and the concept of "one person, one heart", and the emergence of "vegetarian gelatin" will also increase the competition in the market. The market is developing, and the relevant parties need to be flexible to adapt to the trend, seize the opportunity, and meet the needs of the pharmaceutical industry.