PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1883041
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1883041
The global pneumococcal vaccines market continues to expand steadily due to rising disease burden, growing awareness of preventive vaccination, and increased investment in next-generation conjugate vaccines. According to the latest report, the market size reached USD 8.50 billion in 2024, supported by widespread immunization programs and strong demand from pediatric and adult populations. The market is projected to rise to USD 8.80 billion in 2025 as countries continue to strengthen routine vaccination coverage and accelerate the introduction of new pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs). By 2032, the global market value is expected to reach USD 12.87 billion, driven by innovation in high-valent PCVs, broader government vaccination mandates, and expansion in emerging economies.
Market Drivers
Rising incidence of Invasive Pneumococcal Disease (IPD) remains the key factor driving pneumococcal vaccine uptake worldwide. These infections-such as bacteremia, meningitis, and severe pneumonia-have seen increasing prevalence due to chronic health conditions, weakened immunity, and ageing global populations. In the European Union, for example, the ECDC reported 17,700 confirmed IPD cases in 2022, illustrating the persistent health burden and need for broader serotype coverage. As a result, governments, public health agencies, and organizations are strongly prioritizing vaccination as a cost-effective preventive strategy.
The expansion of national immunization programs further supports market growth. India's nationwide rollout of the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) in 2021 ensured access to over 60 million doses, covering more than 90% of newborns annually-one of the largest PCV introductions globally.
Market Restraints
Despite strong demand, the market faces challenges due to the complex manufacturing process required to produce pneumococcal conjugate vaccines. Conjugation technology-linking bacterial polysaccharides to carrier proteins-requires sophisticated equipment, multiple purification steps, and high technical expertise. Additionally, the vast diversity of pneumococcal serotypes necessitates vaccines with increasing valency, making production even more complicated. Meanwhile, limited cold-chain infrastructure in low-income regions contributes to vaccine spoilage. According to the International Trade Organization, 25% of liquid vaccines worldwide spoil due to broken cold chains, highlighting logistical barriers to broad vaccine deployment.
Market Opportunities
Next-generation high-valent PCVs represent major growth opportunities, aimed at addressing serotypes not covered by existing vaccines. Companies such as Sanofi, Merck, Pfizer, and SK Bioscience are investing heavily in larger-valency pipeline candidates. In December 2024, Sanofi initiated a global phase 3 program for its PCV21, while Pfizer continues expanding its PCV20 reach globally. These next-gen vaccines could significantly enhance global disease protection, especially in high-risk adult populations.
Market Trends
A notable trend shaping the industry is the growing emphasis on adult pneumococcal vaccination programs. With mortality risk significantly higher among individuals aged 50+, health agencies have updated recommendations to ensure earlier vaccination. In October 2024, the CDC's ACIP expanded its guidance to recommend PCV for all PCV-naive adults aged 50 years and older, strengthening adult vaccination uptake in the U.S. and influencing global policy alignment.
By Product Type
The PCV20 segment holds the leading share due to its broad serotype coverage and growing global approvals. In December 2024, Pfizer's PCV20 received approval from Hong Kong's Department of Health, expanding its global footprint. Meanwhile, PPSV23 remains essential for adult booster programs, offering wide serotype protection when combined with PCV priming doses.
By Age Group
The pediatric segment dominates in 2024 due to the high vulnerability of children under five. New launches like Abbott's PneumoShield 14 for infants over six weeks are strengthening early-age immunization. The adult segment is set for steady expansion through awareness campaigns and partnerships, such as the 2025 Pfizer-American Lung Association initiative promoting updated adult vaccination guidelines.
By Distribution Channel
The government suppliers segment leads due to bulk procurement programs and partnerships with global bodies like UNICEF and Gavi. Hospital and retail pharmacies are gaining traction with improved access and expanded vaccination services.
North America
North America led with USD 4.79 billion in 2024, supported by high awareness, robust healthcare infrastructure, and active R&D, including iiCON's USD 3.5 million vaccine development grant in 2024.
Europe
Europe remains the second-largest market, driven by rapid regulatory approvals. In March 2025, Merck's CAPVAXIVE (PCV21) received European Commission approval for adults.
Asia Pacific
Expected to grow fastest through 2032 as nations like India, China, and Japan expand vaccine access and develop indigenous PCV technologies.
Conclusion
With global market value rising from USD 8.50 billion in 2024 to a projected USD 12.87 billion in 2032, the pneumococcal vaccines market is set for robust long-term growth. Strong government immunization programs, increasing disease prevalence, and rapid advancement in next-generation conjugate vaccines will continue shaping the market's upward trajectory throughout the forecast window.
Segmentation
By Product Type
By Age Group
By Distribution Channel
By Region