PUBLISHER: Global Market Insights Inc. | PRODUCT CODE: 1782113
PUBLISHER: Global Market Insights Inc. | PRODUCT CODE: 1782113
The Global Enteric Empty Capsules Market was valued at USD 2.7 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% to reach USD 5.2 billion by 2034. This surge is being driven by the increasing need for advanced drug delivery systems that ensure targeted, delayed release of active pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compounds. By shielding sensitive ingredients from stomach acidity and delivering them directly to the intestines, enteric capsules are critical for gastrointestinal medications and acid-sensitive therapies. Their versatility extends to antibiotics, antacids, and enzyme treatments, making them an essential component of modern formulations.
The rapid growth of personalized medicine and patient-centric design is further boosting demand, thanks to formulation flexibility and compatibility with diverse active ingredients. In the expanding nutraceutical arena, enteric capsules-especially HPMC-based, vegan-friendly types-are increasingly favored for probiotic, enzyme, and herbal supplement delivery. The preference for clean-label, plant-based options is prompting manufacturers to invest in silicone-free, vegetarian capsule alternatives.
Market Scope | |
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Start Year | 2024 |
Forecast Year | 2025-2034 |
Start Value | $2.7 Billion |
Forecast Value | $5.2 Billion |
CAGR | 6.9% |
The Gelatin segment generated USD 1.6 billion in 2024. Its affordability, film-forming quality, and ease of production make it the default choice for large-scale capsule manufacturing, especially where non-vegetarian formulations are acceptable. Its regulatory convenience and compatibility with a variety of APIs make it a top choice for many pharmaceutical and supplement producers.
Enteric empty capsules are employed in the antibiotic and antibacterial drugs segment, which held a 43.5% share in 2024. These capsules protect acid-sensitive antibiotics from gastric degradation, ensuring optimal absorption in the intestines. They also help minimize side effects and mask the unpleasant taste of certain medications, improving patient adherence and treatment success.
U.S. Enteric Empty Capsules Market accounted for USD 986.8 million in 2024, driven by widespread gastrointestinal conditions affecting tens of millions of people, and a robust supplement intake among adults. Regulatory clarity from agencies like the FDA and USDA supports fast-track development and adoption of pH-dependent and delayed-release capsule technologies.
Key manufacturers in this industry include Lonza, Roquette Freres, Chemcaps, Bright Pharma Caps, Qingdao Yiqing, ACG Worldwide, Natural Capsules, Yiyang Pharma, Capsuline, Shaoxing Zhongya Capsule, Fortcaps Healthcare, CapsCanada, Suheung, and Zhejiang Huili Capsules. To bolster their market position, leading manufacturers in the enteric empty capsules space are deploying several key strategies. They're investing in R&D to develop innovative capsule materials-such as HPMC and plant-based polymers-that appeal to health-conscious consumers and meet regulatory standards.
Strategic partnerships with pharmaceutical and nutraceutical firms facilitate the co-development of customized solutions tailored to specific APIs and delivery systems. Many companies are expanding production capacities and establishing facilities closer to regional hubs to improve supply chain efficiency. Emphasis on clean-label, vegan-friendly certification, and transparent manufacturing processes addresses consumer demand for ethical and safe products.