PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1916514
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1916514
The global sterilization equipment market was valued at USD 7.72 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 8.01 billion in 2026, reaching USD 11.56 billion by 2034, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.70% during the forecast period (2026-2034). The market growth is primarily driven by the rising prevalence of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), increasing demand for effective infection control, and expanding pharmaceutical and biotechnology research activities.
Sterilization equipment is widely used for decontaminating medical instruments, consumables, and laboratory products in hospitals, specialty clinics, pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, research institutes, and biopharmaceutical companies. Proper sterilization plays a critical role in preventing infections caused by contaminated medical devices during diagnostic and surgical procedures.
Rising Burden of Hospital-Acquired Infections Driving Market Demand
Hospital-acquired infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), surgical site infections, and sepsis continue to pose a major threat to patient safety worldwide. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data published in May 2022, 7 out of every 100 patients in high-income countries and 15 out of every 100 patients in low- and middle-income countries acquire HAIs during hospital stays. Alarmingly, 1 in 10 patients diagnosed with HAIs dies, highlighting the urgent need for effective sterilization practices.
Such high infection and mortality rates have significantly increased demand for advanced sterilization systems, including ethylene oxide (EO) sterilizers, hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, and autoclaves. The growing emphasis on infection prevention protocols across healthcare facilities globally continues to support market expansion.
Market Size & Regional Performance
In 2025, North America dominated the sterilization equipment market, accounting for a 48.56% market share, with a regional market value of USD 3.75 billion. The dominance is attributed to high healthcare expenditure, a strong hospital infrastructure, and strict regulatory guidelines aimed at reducing HAIs. The U.S. market is estimated to reach USD 3.67 billion in 2026, supported by over 6,100 hospitals nationwide.
Europe held a substantial share in 2024 and is expected to maintain steady growth due to rising awareness of infection control and regulatory mandates. Countries such as Germany, the U.K., and France are actively upgrading hospital sterilization infrastructure.
The Asia Pacific market is anticipated to grow at a significant CAGR, driven by expanding healthcare infrastructure, increased pharmaceutical R&D investment, and rising awareness of infectious diseases. China, India, and Japan are key contributors, with Japan's market projected to reach USD 2.03 billion in 2026.
Market Segmentation Insights
By product type, chemical/gas sterilizers dominated the market, holding an estimated 72.84% market share in 2026. The segment's dominance is attributed to the widespread use of low-temperature sterilization technologies, which are ideal for heat-sensitive medical devices and polymers. Ethylene oxide and hydrogen peroxide sterilizers are extensively used in hospitals and medical device manufacturing.
Thermal sterilizers, including autoclaves, are also witnessing growth due to their extensive use in laboratories and research institutes for sterilizing glassware and laboratory equipment.
By end user, the hospital & specialty clinic segment led the market and is expected to account for 61.36% of the market share in 2026. The high volume of surgical procedures and increasing infection risk drive demand in this segment. Meanwhile, the pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers segment is projected to grow at a strong CAGR of 10.3%, supported by rising biologics and cell & gene therapy development.
Technological Advancements and Industry Developments
The market is witnessing increasing adoption of advanced sterilization technologies, such as ozone sterilization, vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP), and robotic-assisted sterilization systems. Automation and autonomous disinfection robots are being increasingly deployed to improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety.
Key players including STERIS, Getinge AB, 3M, ASP, and Andersen Sterilizers continue to expand their product portfolios through acquisitions and technological innovation. Notable developments include STERIS' acquisition of BD's sterilization product lines in 2023 and Getinge AB's acquisition of Ultra Clean Systems Inc. in 2023 to strengthen its North American presence.
Conclusion
The global sterilization equipment market is set to witness steady and sustained growth through 2034, driven primarily by the rising burden of hospital-acquired infections, stricter infection prevention regulations, and expanding pharmaceutical and biotechnology research activities. With hospitals and specialty clinics remaining the largest end users, demand for reliable, low-temperature, and high-throughput sterilization systems will continue to rise, particularly for heat-sensitive medical devices and complex surgical instruments. North America will retain market leadership due to advanced healthcare infrastructure and stringent regulatory compliance, while Asia Pacific will emerge as the fastest-growing region supported by healthcare expansion, rising medical device manufacturing, and increased R&D investments. Technological advancements such as vaporized hydrogen peroxide systems, ozone sterilization, and robotic-assisted automation are further enhancing efficiency and safety, making sterilization processes more consistent and scalable. Overall, continuous innovation, regulatory pressure, and growing awareness of patient safety will remain key factors shaping long-term market expansion.
Segmentation By Product Type
By End-user
By Region