Gemcitabine Hydrochloride Market - By Product Type, By Indication, By End Use - Global Forecast 2025 – 2034

Gemcitabine Hydrochloride Market Size

The global gemcitabine hydrochloride market size was valued at USD 788.6 million in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 834 million in 2025 to USD 1.5 billion in 2034, at a CAGR of 6.7% during the forecast period. The market growth is driven by the increasing global prevalence of cancer coupled with growing preference of chemotherapy drugs due to its broad applicability and effectiveness in treating a wide range of solid tumors, including pancreatic, non-small cell lung, and bladder cancers.
 

As per the report published by Pan American Health Organization, it has been reported that an estimated 20 million new cases of cancer and 10 million deaths from cancer globally were reported in 2023. Also, the cancer burden will increase by approximately 60% over the next two decades and will increase to about 30 million new cancer cases by 2040, with the rapid increase in low- and middle-income countries. This increase in cases leads to high demand for gemcitabine hydrochloride drugs, thereby boosting the market growth.
 

The market growth is bolstered by technological advancements in drug delivery systems with ongoing cancer research by key players in the market to enhance the efficacy of gemcitabine hydrochloride drugs. The introduction of new formulations and modes of administration have expanded the application of gemcitabine drugs in treatment protocols.
 

For example, in September 2024, RenovoRx announced that it is increasing the production of FDA-cleared RenovoCath catheter-based delivery system due to increased demand for targeted delivery of diagnostic therapeutic agents from oncologists and interventional radiologists. TIGeR-PaC is using the TAMP (Trans-Arterial Micro-Perfusion) therapy platform to evaluate RenovoRx’s first drug-device combination product candidate (intra-arterial infusion of chemotherapy, gemcitabine HCl) to target the tumor in LAPC.
 

Further, the continuous approvals of gemcitabine hydrochloride by regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for new indications and formulations have boosted the drug’s usage. This has resulted in a broader application for treating different types of cancer, which drives market growth.
 

Gemcitabine is used to treat certain types of cancer/oncology (including biliary tract, breast, lung, ovarian, pancreatic). It is a chemotherapy drug that works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. Gemcitabine is used in combination with other drugs to treat various types of cancers such as in combination with carboplatin for ovarian cancer treatment, in combination with paclitaxel (Abraxane, Taxol) to treat breast cancer and various others.
 

Gemcitabine Hydrochloride Market Trends

• The increasing efficacy of drug when used in combination therapies coupled with ongoing clinical trials and product development by pharmaceutical companies are the significant driver of the market. For example, in September 2022, Syros Pharmaceuticals received FDA orphan drug designation for SY-5609, a CDK7 inhibitor, to be used in combination with chemotherapy for patients with relapsed metastatic pancreatic cancer.
   
• This combination includes gemcitabine, highlighting its continued relevance in cancer treatment. This ongoing advancements in drug delivery system and regulatory approvals of new drugs in the pharmaceutical industry contribute to market growth.
   
• Also, the patent expiration of branded gemcitabine hydrochloride drugs rises the generic version of drug making treatment accessible at a lower cost, thereby contributing market growth. For example, the key players in the market such as Pfizer, Aurobindo Pharma, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories and others are actively manufacturing generic version of gemcitabine at lower cost.
   
• The increasing demand for targeted therapy and chemotherapy for cancer treatment owing to rising healthcare expenditure, elevates the demand for gemcitabine-based drug formulation.
   
• In addition, the increasing prevalence of cancer in developing economies such as India, China, Brazil, South Korea and other countries, leads to increasing adoption of generic versions of gemcitabine hydrochloride for treatment, thereby augmenting the market growth. As per an article published by the National Library of Medicine in December 2024, there are an estimated 3.2 million new cancer cases with 1.7 million cancer deaths in China.
   

Gemcitabine Hydrochloride Market Analysis

Based on product type, the global market is divided into branded drugs and generic drugs. The generic drugs segment dominated the market and was valued at USD 516.6 million in 2024. The segmental revenue was valued at USD 435.9 million in 2021. It reached to USD 487.6 million in 2023, growing from USD 460.7 million in 2022.
 

• Generic gemcitabine is priced lower than its branded counterpart. This price reduction makes the drug more accessible to a broader range of patients, particularly in low-income regions or countries with high healthcare costs. For instance, generic drugs can be up to 80-85% cost effective than branded drugs, the price reduction has led to wider adoption, particularly in developing economies, contributing to the market growth.
   
• Also, the rising cost of cancer therapies has prompted healthcare providers to seek more affordable alternatives. Generic drugs provide an effective solution to these increasing costs, which leads to increase in adoption of generic drugs.
   
• Governments and regulatory bodies such as the U.S. FDA, and EMA have simplified approval processes for generics, making it easier for manufacturers to bring generic versions of gemcitabine to market. For example, the FDA’s Generic Drug User Fee Amendment (GDUFA) and China’s Volume-based Procurement (VBP) policy accelerated the generic gemcitabine drug approvals.
   
• Further, the hospitals and cancer clinics are increasingly adopting lost-cost generic versions of gemcitabine to manage a large patient pool suffering from cancer, thereby contributing to market growth.  
   

Based on the indication, the global gemcitabine hydrochloride market is categorized into lung cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer, bladder cancer, and other indications. The pancreatic cancer segment accounted for the highest market share of 32.6% in 2024.
 

• The rising incidence of pancreatic cancer along with the proven efficacy of gemcitabine as a standard first-line treatment for advanced cases is driving the demand for gemcitabine to improve survival rates and control the disease. As per the report published by the American Cancer Society’s estimates, the pancreatic cancer in the U.S. for 2025 is expected to about 67,440 people (34,950 men and 32,490 women). The average lifetime risk of pancreatic cancer is about 1 in 56 in men and about 1 in 60 in women.
   
• Gemcitabine is frequently used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, such as nab-paclitaxel, to enhance treatment outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients. The approval of combination therapies has helped expand the market for gemcitabine in this indication.
   
• Moreover, ongoing research and clinical trials focused on enhancing the effectiveness of gemcitabine for pancreatic cancer are likely to expand its market. Investigations into genetic profiling, precision medicine, and combination therapies are paving the way for improved treatment outcomes.
   
• The increasing investment in research and development activities for the development of novel gemcitabine formulation such as nanoparticles-based or liposomal drug delivery systems with improved efficacy for the treatment for pancreatic cancer drives the segment growth. 
   

Based on the end use, the global gemcitabine hydrochloride market is categorized into hospitals, specialty cancer clinics, ambulatory surgical centers, and other end users. The hospitals segment dominated the market in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 644.4 million by 2034.
 

• Technological advancement in drug delivery systems such as liposomal formulations enhance the effectiveness of gemcitabine hydrochloride. Liposomal gemcitabine such as Marqibo has shown improved bioavailability and reduced side effects. This innovation is expected to increase the use of gemcitabine in hospitals.
   
• Also, hospitals offer specialized oncology departments which provide both advanced technology and skilled healthcare professionals for the administration of gemcitabine. Hospitals are equipped with comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options that are crucial for the use of chemotherapy agents such as gemcitabine.
   
• Further, the government and private investors in the healthcare sector are increasingly investing to improve healthcare infrastructure for cancer treatment in the hospitals. This increases the demand for oncology drugs such as gemcitabine, thereby contribute the market growth.
   

The North America gemcitabine hydrochloride market dominated the global market with a market share of 45.6% in 2024. The U.S. held a significant position in the North America market and was valued at USD 324 million in 2024.
 

• Gemcitabine hydrochloride is primarily used for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. The increasing prevalence of pancreatic cancer in the U.S. is a significant driver for the growth of the market. The U.S. government, through programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, subsidizes cancer treatment, making drugs such as gemcitabine more accessible to a broader patient base.
   
• Also, the development of specialized cancer treatment centers and improved access to oncologists in the U.S. is making cancer treatment more effective and accessible, thereby encouraging the use of chemotherapy drugs such as gemcitabine.
   
• In March 2024, the U.S. FDA approved nivolumab (Opdivo, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company) in combination with cisplatin and gemcitabine for first-line treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC).
   
• Such approval of new drugs by U.S. FDA improves drug efficacy and patient compliance, thereby fostering the country level market growth.
   

Germany shows strong growth potential in the Europe gemcitabine hydrochloride market.
 

• Germany's advanced healthcare infrastructure, established research institutions, and growing government healthcare investments are key drivers that propels the market growth.
   
• Gemcitabine hydrochloride is recommended in multiple treatment guidelines for cancers such as pancreatic cancer. The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) and the German Society of Hematology and Oncology (DGHO) include gemcitabine as a standard chemotherapy regimen for various cancers, which boosts its use.
   
• Additionally German public health initiatives aimed at increasing awareness about the importance of early cancer detection and treatment, which subsequently drives the demand for chemotherapy treatments such as gemcitabine.
   
• Further, the expansion of leading pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in the country continuously involved in drug development of oncology contribute to market growth.  
   

The Asia Pacific gemcitabine hydrochloride market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7% over the next few years.
 

• The rapid expansion of healthcare facilities, including hospitals and cancer centers, has improved the accessibility and administration of chemotherapeutics treatments. This infrastructural growth is a significant contributor to market growth.
   
• The increasing incidence of cancer in China coupled with the growing use of gemcitabine hydrochloride primarily for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, a disease that has been steadily increasing in China due to lifestyle changes and an aging population, leads to increasing demand for this drug that contribute to the market growth.
   
• Also, China has become a hub for pharmaceutical research and clinical trials, with several Chinese companies focusing on expanding the use of gemcitabine hydrochloride for multiple cancer indications.
   
• Furthermore, China's aging population is another major driver. For example, according to the United Nations Population Division, the proportion of people aged 60 and above in China will reach 28% by 2040, increasing the number of elderly individuals who are more prone to cancer.
   
• Therefore, with baby boomers more susceptible to various cancers, the demand for effective treatments such as gemcitabine is growing that drives the growth of the market.
   

Saudi Arabia gemcitabine hydrochloride is anticipated to grow in the Middle East and Africa gemcitabine hydrochloride market.
 

• Saudi Arabia has observed an increase in cancer cases, particularly among women. Breast cancer is the most prevalent, with approximately 17.5% of all cancer cases in the country. Ovarian cancer also contributes significantly to the cancer burden. Therefore, gemcitabine hydrochloride is a critical chemotherapy agent used in treating these cancers, thereby driving its demand.
   
• Also, Saudi Arabia's collaborations with international pharmaceutical companies and research institutions have facilitated the introduction of advanced cancer therapies, including gemcitabine hydrochloride. These partnerships enhance the availability and distribution of the drug within the country.
   
• Further, the Saudi government has launched various initiatives to combat cancer, including funding for research, awareness campaigns, and support programs. These efforts aim to improve early detection and treatment outcomes, thereby increasing the demand for chemotherapy drugs such as gemcitabine hydrochloride.
   

Gemcitabine Hydrochloride Market Share

The top 6 players such as Pfizer, Fresenius Kabi, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Sun Pharmaceuticals and Accord Healthcare accounts for approximately 60%-70% of the market share in 2024. These players focus on various strategies such as acquisition, business expansion, research and development activities and novel product launches to consolidate their market presence. For example, in April 2024, Pfizer and Genmab announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves the supplemental Biologics License Application (sBLA) granting full approval for TIVDAK (tisotumab vedotin-tftv) for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer with disease progression on or after chemotherapy.
 

Established pharmaceutical giants offer a well-known gemcitabine hydrochloride under various brand names and generic versions. Key players are engaging in strategic initiatives such as collaboration, product launch, investment, and partnerships to strengthen their product portfolio. The companies are actively adopting a multi-pronged approaches to address the rising demand for gemcitabine hydrochloride. Furthermore, the market is highly consolidated with few players operating in the market. Hence, leading players are constantly adopting key strategies for the growth of the market.
 

Gemcitabine Hydrochloride Market Companies

Prominent players operating in the gemcitabine hydrochloride industry are as mentioned below:

• Accord Healthcare
• Apotex
• Aurobindo Pharma
• CHEPLAPHARM Group
• Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories
• Fresenius Kabi
• Mylan
• NorthStar Rx
• Pfizer (Hospira Australia)
• Sun Pharmaceutical
• Teva Pharmaceuticals
• Zydus 
   

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories and Sun Pharmaceutical are leaders in cost-effective generic versions, making gemcitabine more accessible in India, Asia-Pacific, and emerging markets. Teva Pharmaceuticals and Accord Healthcare focus on high-quality, regulatory-compliant chemotherapy injectables expanding treatment options in Europe and North America.
 

With continuous advancements in oncology drug formulations, biosimilar developments, and improved drug delivery mechanisms, these companies play a vital role in ensuring widespread availability, affordability, and treatment efficacy for cancer patients globally.
 

Gemcitabine Hydrochloride Industry News

• In October 2024, CHEPLAPHARM Group has entered into a definitive agreement with Eli Lilly and Company to acquire the worldwide rights (except South Korea) for Gemzar with the active ingredient gemcitabine. This helped the company expand its product range in the oncology sector.
   
• In December 2023, Johnson & Johnson announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted TAR-200 Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) for the potential future treatment of patients with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). TAR-200 is a novel investigational targeted releasing system designed to provide sustained local release of gemcitabine into the bladder.
   
• In November 2023, Merck announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved KEYTRUDA, Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin, for the treatment of patients with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic biliary tract cancer (BTC).
   

The gemcitabine hydrochloride market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Product Type

• Branded drugs
• Generic drugs

Market, By Indication

• Lung cancer
• Breast cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Other indications

Market, By End Use

• Hospitals
• Specialty cancer clinics
• Ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs)
• Other end users

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE