Vials Market Size

The global vials market was valued at USD 12.2 billion in 2023 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% from 2024 to 2032. A vial is a small, sealed container, typically made of glass or plastic, used to store liquid, powder, or freeze-dried medications. Vials are essential for preserving the sterility and stability of drugs, particularly in healthcare settings. They are commonly used for vaccines, injectables, and biologics and are available in single-use or multi-dose formats, sealed with a rubber stopper or cap to prevent contamination until the medication is ready for administration.

The market is witnessing significant growth, driven by the rising demand for pharmaceuticals, especially injectable drugs and biologics, which is propelling the need for high-quality vials that ensure drug stability and safety. Additionally, the increasing incidence of chronic diseases and a heightened focus on global vaccination campaigns have significantly increased the use of vials for the storage and distribution of vaccines. Technological advancements in vial design, including enhanced glass formulations and tamper-evident features, further contribute to their appeal.

Moreover, the trend toward sustainable packaging is fostering the development of eco-friendly vials. This shift, along with expanding healthcare infrastructure and greater access to medications in emerging markets, is boosting the overall demand for vials.

Vials Market Trends

Advancements in glass technology are expected to drive market demand, as innovations such as coated and strengthened glass vials enhance durability, drug stability, and safety. These advancements are aimed at meeting the rising requirements of the pharmaceutical and biologics sectors, where high-quality packaging is essential to maintain the integrity of sensitive formulations.

• For instance, in October 2024, Nipro entered a new collaboration with Corning Incorporated. This partnership integrates Nipro’s premium glass vials with Corning’s state-of-the-art Velocity Vial coating technology, aiming to drive innovation in the pharmaceutical packaging industry by enhancing vial durability and drug stability.
  

Enhanced glass technology also reduces the risk of breakage and contamination, making it a preferred choice for injectable drugs and biologics, thereby further expanding market growth.

Vials Market Analysis

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Based on preparation, the market is segmented into ready to use (RTU) and ready to sterilize (RTS). The RTU segment dominated the market and is anticipated to grow at 9.4% CAGR over the forecast period.

• RTU vials provide pre-measured doses of drugs, reducing the need for additional preparation and lowering the risk of contamination. This feature is especially beneficial in clinical environments, where both time and precision are essential.
  
• Moreover, the efficiency and convenience of RTU systems promote their adoption. By eliminating the need for sterilization and filling processes, these systems optimize production at pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities. This allows manufacturers to focus on their primary operations, leading to decreased operational and labor costs. The faster time-to-market for new drugs further enhances the appeal of RTU products within the industry.
  
• Additionally, the growing trend of home healthcare and self-medication has increased demand for RTU preparations. As healthcare providers seek streamlined solutions to improve patient outcomes, the popularity of RTU vials is expected to continue rising.
  

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Based on application, the vials market is categorized into small molecules, biologics, and diagnostics. The biologics segment accounted for the highest market share of 48.6% in 2023.

• The biologics segment’s dominance is driven by the increasing reliance on biologic therapies for treating various chronic diseases, including autoimmune disorders.
  
• Biologics, derived from living organisms, often require specialized packaging to ensure their stability and efficacy, making vials an essential component.
  
• The segment's growth is further bolstered by the rising number of biosimilars entering the market, providing more treatment options for patients.
  
• Additionally, the approval of numerous biosimilar products in recent years has expanded treatment accessibility and affordability, thereby increasing demand for vials tailored to biologic formulations.
  
• For instance, as of April 2023, the FDA had approved 671 brand-name biologic drugs, but by October 2023, only 43 biosimilar drugs had received FDA approval. This disparity highlights the continued reliance on brand-name biologics in the market, driving demand for vials specifically designed to maintain the stability and efficacy of these complex therapies. The limited number of biosimilars further emphasizes the need for robust and reliable packaging solutions, reinforcing the biologics segment's dominance in the market.
  
• This trend underscores the essential role of biologics in the pharmaceutical industry and the subsequent expansion of the market.
  

Based on material, the vials market is categorized into glass, polymer, and hybrid. The glass segment accounted for the highest revenue of USD 7.9 billion in 2023.

• The prominence of glass material stems from its superior properties, including chemical resistance, durability, and the ability to maintain the stability of sensitive pharmaceutical products.
  
• Glass vials are widely preferred for packaging injectable drugs and biologics, as they provide an inert environment that prevents contamination and maintains product integrity.
  
• Additionally, advancements in glass technology, such as the development of borosilicate glass, enhance the performance of vials, making them suitable for a broader range of applications.
  
• Thus, the increasing focus on safety and quality in the pharmaceutical industry further reinforces the dominance of glass vials in the market.
  

Based on size, the global vials market is categorized into <1 ml, 1 ml - 2 ml, 3 ml - 5 ml, 6 ml - 10 ml, 10 - 20 ml, 20 - 30 ml, and >30 ml. The 3 ml - 5 ml segment accounted for the highest market revenue and is projected to reach USD 6.6 billion by 2032.

• The 3 ml - 5 ml vials are primarily favored due to their versatility and suitability for a wide range of applications in pharmaceuticals and healthcare. This size is particularly preferred for packaging injectable drugs, vaccines, and biologics, as it allows for precise dosing while minimizing waste. The growing demand for smaller, more concentrated formulations has further propelled the popularity of these vial sizes.
  
• Additionally, their compatibility with various injectable drug delivery systems, including syringes and infusion pumps, enhances their usability in clinical settings, solidifying their position as a leading segment in the market.
  

Based on end use, the vials market is categorized into hospitals & clinics, pharma & biotech companies, contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs), diagnostic laboratories, and other end users. The pharma & biotech companies segment is projected to dominate the market throughout the analysis period.

• The prominence of pharma & biotech companies is driven by the rising demand for high-quality packaging solutions that ensure the stability and safety of drugs, including injectables and biologics.
  
• As these companies continue to develop innovative therapies, including biologic and biosimilar drugs, the need for robust vials that can safely contain sensitive formulations has intensified.
  
• Moreover, stringent regulatory standards in the pharma industry necessitate reliable packaging, positioning these companies as primary consumers of advanced vial technologies. Their commitment to maintaining drug integrity is likely to sustain their leading market position.
  

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In 2023, the U.S. held a leading position in the North American vials market and is projected to maintain this dominance throughout the forecast period, with a CAGR of 8.8%.

• The U.S. prominence is attributed to its robust pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector, which drives high demand for quality packaging solutions. With significant investment in drug development, especially in biologics and personalized medicine, the U.S. market emphasizes the need for advanced vials to ensure drug stability, safety, and compliance with stringent regulatory standards.
  
• Furthermore, the U.S. has an extensive network of healthcare facilities, research institutions, and distribution channels, enhancing the adoption of innovative vial technologies. This strong industry infrastructure positions the U.S. as a key leader in the market.
  

Germany held a prominent position in the Europe vials market.

• Germany’s position is strengthened by its robust pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors and dedication to high manufacturing standards.
  
• Renowned for its advanced R&D infrastructure and strict regulatory framework, Germany is a key producer and consumer of premium vials, particularly for biologics, vaccines, and injectable medications.
  
• The increasing emphasis on precision medicine and biologic therapies in the country has further fueled demand for specialized vial solutions that ensure drug stability and safety.
• This strategic role enhances Germany’s influence in the European market, supporting both regional growth and innovation.
  

China holds the highest share of 38.3% in the Asia Pacific vials market in 2023.

• China's dominance in the Asia Pacific region is driven by its expanding pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors and increasing domestic production of biologics and vaccines.
  
• The country's significant investment in healthcare infrastructure, coupled with rising demand for injectable drugs to treat chronic diseases, has bolstered the need for reliable and advanced vial packaging.
  
• Additionally, supportive government policies aimed at boosting pharmaceutical production and exports further strengthen China’s position in the market.
  
• These factors collectively position China as a dominant player in the Asia-Pacific market and a key contributor to the region's growth.
  

Brazil accounted for the highest revenue in the Latin American vials market

• Brazil dominance is attributed to its extensive pharmaceutical industry and increasing healthcare demand.
  
• With a growing focus on local production of pharmaceuticals and biologics, Brazil has seen a surge in the need for reliable vial packaging solutions to ensure the stability and efficacy of injectable drugs.
  
• Additionally, government initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access and expanding immunization programs have further propelled demand for vials, solidifying Brazil's leading position in the Latin American market.
  

Saudi Arabia is poised to grow at a significant growth rate of 8.6% in the Middle East and African vials market

• Saudi Arabia's position is reinforced by its expanding healthcare infrastructure and increasing investments in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
  
• The country’s focus on enhancing local drug production capabilities, along with a rising prevalence of chronic diseases, has escalated demand for quality vials to support injectable therapies and biologics.
  
• Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s strategic initiatives to become a regional hub for medical and pharmaceutical advancements contribute to its significant role in the MEA market, reinforcing its market position and fostering regional growth.
  

Vials Market Share

The market is characterized by intense competition among major pharmaceutical companies, glass manufacturers, and packaging specialists. Key players dominate the market due to their robust manufacturing capacities, innovation in vial materials, and partnerships with pharma giants. Companies are increasingly focusing on offering high-quality vials with enhanced durability and chemical resistance, like Type 1 borosilicate glass vials, to ensure drug stability and patient safety. The rise in injectable therapies and the expansion of biologics have spurred demand for specialized vials, such as prefilled and ready-to-use formats. This demand has attracted competition from regional manufacturers in Asia Pacific and emerging markets, aiming to offer cost-effective alternatives.

Vials Market Companies

Few of the prominent players operating in the vials industry include:

• Amcor
• Arab Pharmaceutical Glass
• Corning Incorporated
• Daikyo Seiko
• DWK Life Sciences
• Gerresheimer AG
• KISHORE GROUP
• Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company
• Nipro
• Pacific Vial Manufacturing
• SCHOTT Pharma (SCHOTT Group)
• SGD Pharma
• Shandong Province Medicinal Glass
• SHIOTANI GLASS
• Stevanato Group
• West Pharmaceutical Services
• Wuxi NEST Biotechnology
  

Vials Industry News

• In October 2023, SGD Pharma launched its new Sterinity range of RTU Type I molded glass vials, now featuring 10ml and 20ml ISO vials added to its existing portfolio. Sterinity offers optimal packaging for biologics and innovative treatments requiring parenteral glass vials. This launch aimed to enhance the company's offerings in the competitive industry.
  
• In September 2022, Gerresheimer AG and Stevanato Group S.p.A. entered into a collaborative agreement to create a premium RTU solution platform, initially focusing on vials and leveraging Stevanato Group’s advanced EZ-fill technology. This partnership aimed to enhance customer efficiencies, elevate quality standards, accelerate market entry, lower total cost of ownership, and reduce supply chain risks. This strategic enabled companies to strengthen their market resilience.
  

The vials market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million and volume in Units from 2021 – 2032 for the following segments:

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Market, By Preparation

• Ready to use (RTU)
• Ready to sterilize (RTS)

Market, By Application

• Small molecules
• Biologics
• Diagnostics

Market, By Material

• Glass
• Polymer
• Hybrid

Market, By Size

• <1 ml
• 1 ml - 2 ml
• 3 ml - 5 ml
• 6 ml - 10 ml
• 10 - 20 ml
• 20 - 30 ml
• >30 ml

Market, By End use

• Hospitals & clinics
• Pharma & biotech companies
• Contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs)
• Diagnostic laboratories 
• 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
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE