Forecast Period | 2026-2030 |
Market Size (2024) | USD 65.20 Billion |
CAGR (2025-2030) | 8.75% |
Fastest Growing Segment | Pharmaceutical Drugs |
Largest Market | West India |
Market Size (2030) | USD 106.67 Billion |
Market Overview
India
Pharmaceutical Market was valued at USD 65.20 Billion in 2024 and is expected
to reach USD 106.67 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 8.75% during the forecast
period. This expansion is largely attributed to the country’s robust domestic
market and its prominence as a global hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and
innovation. The domestic market benefits from a growing middle class, increased
healthcare awareness, and significant government initiatives aimed at improving
healthcare access and infrastructure. For instance, programs like the Pradhan
Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) are designed to provide health coverage to
economically disadvantaged segments, thereby boosting demand for
pharmaceuticals.
In
addition to domestic growth, India has established itself as a major player in
the global pharmaceutical industry, particularly through its export of generic
medicines. Indian pharmaceutical companies supply over 60% of the world's
vaccines and approximately 20% of generic drugs, demonstrating their capability
to provide high-quality, cost-effective solutions on a global scale. This
position has been reinforced by the country's competitive advantage in the
production of generics, which helps meet global healthcare needs at affordable
prices.
Despite
its impressive growth, the Indian pharmaceutical market faces several
challenges that could impact its future trajectory. One of the primary issues
is the complex regulatory environment. The Central Drugs Standard Control
Organization (CDSCO) is responsible for overseeing drug regulation in India,
and while efforts have been made to streamline processes, navigating regulatory
requirements remains a challenge for many companies. Compliance with stringent
regulations is necessary to ensure the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals,
but it can also create barriers to entry and increase operational costs.
Another
significant challenge is the issue of price controls. The Indian government
imposes price controls on essential drugs to make healthcare affordable for the
masses. While this policy aims to benefit consumers, it can also affect the
profitability of pharmaceutical companies and their capacity to invest in
research and development. Price controls can constrain revenue growth and limit
the resources available for innovation and expansion.
Key Market Drivers
Growing Prevalence of Chronic
Diseases
The
Indian pharmaceutical market is witnessing robust growth, driven significantly
by the escalating prevalence of chronic diseases. This trend is reshaping the
healthcare landscape and creating substantial opportunities for pharmaceutical
companies. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions,
chronic respiratory diseases, and cancer are becoming increasingly common in
India, presenting both challenges and prospects for the pharmaceutical
industry.
Chronic
diseases are becoming a leading health concern in India, reflecting global
patterns of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). According to the World Health
Organization (WHO), NCDs account for a significant proportion of the total
disease burden in India, with conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases
leading the list. According to a report released by Medlr in June 2023, a
study published by the Indian Journal of Medical Research has revealed that
7.5% of adults aged 30-74 are affected by cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The
study also highlights that hypertension, a major risk factor for CVDs, is
prevalent in 29.8% of the population within this age group. Additionally,
diabetes, a chronic condition that impairs the body's ability to process blood
sugar, is expected to impact 134 million individuals in India by 2045, up from
the current estimate of 77 million. The increasing prevalence of these
chronic conditions can be attributed to various factors, including lifestyle
changes, urbanization, and an aging population. Sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary
habits, and increased stress levels contribute to the rising incidence of
chronic diseases, which in turn drives demand for effective pharmaceutical
interventions.
Diabetes,
for instance, has become a major public health challenge in India. The International
Diabetes Federation estimates that India has the highest number of diabetic
patients in the world, with numbers expected to continue rising. In India,
diabetes is predominantly Type 2, accounting for 90% of all cases. This form of
diabetes is particularly prevalent among individuals who are overweight, lead a
sedentary lifestyle, consume a diet high in refined carbohydrates and saturated
fats, and have a family history of the condition. Similarly, cardiovascular
diseases are responsible for a substantial portion of deaths in India, driven
by risk factors such as hypertension, obesity, and smoking. Chronic respiratory
diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma,
are also prevalent, exacerbated by environmental pollution and lifestyle
factors. The increase in cancer cases, with types such as breast, lung, and
colorectal cancer becoming more common, further underscores the growing burden
of chronic diseases.
The
rising prevalence of chronic diseases has a direct and profound impact on the
pharmaceutical market in India. As the number of individuals affected by
chronic conditions grows, so does the demand for medications and treatments
designed to manage these long-term health issues. Pharmaceutical companies are
responding to this increased demand by focusing on the development and
commercialization of drugs that address chronic conditions effectively. In
India, many patients seeking treatment for acute or chronic conditions face a
significant challenge in accessing essential medications. The country
experiences some of the highest out-of-pocket expenses (OOPE) for healthcare,
with drugs accounting for over 67% of these costs, according to the NSSO's 68th
round survey. Recognizing the critical need for access to essential drugs, the
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has launched the "Free Drugs
Service Initiative" (FDSI) under the National Health Mission (NHM). This
initiative includes operational guidelines and model RFPs shared with states,
alongside the budget allocation. The guidelines focus on procuring generic
essential medicines at reduced prices, eliminating irrational medications, and
avoiding unscientific fixed-dose combinations.
For
instance, the market for diabetes medications has expanded significantly, with
a wide range of antidiabetic drugs being introduced to meet diverse patient
needs. Similarly, the cardiovascular drug market is evolving with advancements
in medications that address hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and other
cardiovascular risk factors. The rise in demand for cancer therapies, including
targeted therapies and immunotherapies, is also creating opportunities for
pharmaceutical companies to innovate and offer new solutions. In July 2024,
Eli Lilly and Co. achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the first
approvals for the import and sale of a weight-loss medication in India,
surpassing its competitor, Novo Nordisk AS. Eli Lilly will market this
medication under the brand names Zepbound and Mountjaro, both of which are
chemically known as tirzepatide. While these drugs were primarily developed for
the treatment of type 2 diabetes, they are also approved for weight loss
management.
The
increasing burden of chronic diseases has also driven investment in research
and development (R&D) within the pharmaceutical industry. Companies are
investing heavily in R&D to discover novel therapies, improve existing
treatments, and enhance patient outcomes. The focus on personalized medicine
and precision healthcare is gaining momentum, aiming to provide tailored
treatments based on individual patient profiles and genetic information. This
trend is expected to continue as pharmaceutical firms seek to address the
specific needs of patients with chronic conditions.
Rise in Generic Drug Industry
India’s pharmaceutical industry stands as a colossal force in
the global healthcare landscape, with the generic drug sector playing a pivotal
role in its remarkable growth. The rise of the generic drug industry is not
merely a facet of the Indian pharmaceutical market but a significant driver
shaping its trajectory. This sector's expansion is catalyzing India's emergence
as a global hub for affordable and accessible medication, and its influence on
the domestic market is profound and multifaceted.
According to a report by the Times of India published in
March 2023, the global market for generic drugs, valued at USD 390.57 billion
in 2020, is anticipated to grow to approximately USD 574.63 billion by 2030.
This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.59% from 2021 to
2030. The cost-effectiveness of generic drugs, which account for 70 to 80% of
the retail market, makes them a preferred alternative to branded medications.
With India's population expanding, particularly the aging demographic, there
has been a notable increase in the demand for generic medicines due to their
affordability and comparable effectiveness to branded drugs.
The global demand for affordable healthcare solutions has
surged, and India’s generics sector has risen to meet this need. Indian pharmaceutical
companies are renowned for their ability to produce high-quality generic drugs
at a fraction of the cost of their branded counterparts. This affordability is
particularly significant in developing countries where access to essential
medications is often limited by high costs. By providing cost-effective
alternatives, Indian generics have played a crucial role in increasing global
access to medications, thus solidifying India’s reputation as the “pharmacy of
the world.”
It has significantly driven revenue growth for domestic
pharmaceutical companies. With an expanding portfolio of generic drugs, these
companies have been able to tap into new markets and broaden their revenue
streams. This growth is further amplified by the robust export of generics to
developed markets such as the United States and Europe, where Indian
pharmaceutical firms have secured substantial market shares. The ability to
penetrate these high-value markets highlights the global competitiveness of
Indian generics.
Additionally, the generics boom has led to increased
investment in research and development (R&D) within the Indian
pharmaceutical sector. While generics are typically less research-intensive
than innovative drugs, the competitive nature of the global generics market has
spurred Indian companies to invest in R&D for improving manufacturing
processes and developing complex generics, such as biosimilars. This investment
not only enhances the capabilities of Indian pharmaceutical firms but also
drives technological advancements within the industry.
The rise of the generics industry has also contributed to the
overall accessibility and affordability of healthcare in India. By providing
lower-cost medication options, the generics sector helps reduce the financial
burden on Indian patients, particularly those in lower-income brackets. This
increased accessibility is crucial in a country where a significant portion of
the population faces economic constraints that impact their ability to afford
healthcare services. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) in
India operates under a government resolution to regulate medicine prices,
ensuring their availability, affordability, and economic accessibility. It is
now an affiliated office of the Department of Pharmaceuticals within the
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Established as an expert body, the NPPA
is responsible for setting and updating prices for bulk drugs and formulations
listed under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order. Additionally, it oversees the
pricing of decontrolled drugs and formulations.
Download Free Sample Report
Key Market Challenges
Quality Control and
Counterfeiting
The
Indian pharmaceutical market stands as a global powerhouse, known for its
significant contributions to generic drug manufacturing and affordable
healthcare solutions. However, it faces a formidable challenge in the realm of
quality control and counterfeiting. These issues are not merely regulatory
hurdles but are deeply intertwined with the market’s integrity and the health
of millions of consumers.
Quality
control is a cornerstone of any pharmaceutical industry, essential for ensuring
that drugs are safe, effective, and meet specified standards. In India, the
complexity of maintaining stringent quality control is amplified by several
factors. The market is characterized by its vast scale and the sheer volume of
products manufactured and distributed. This scale often strains the existing
regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms. The Indian pharmaceutical
sector comprises numerous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) alongside
large multinational corporations. While large companies typically have robust
quality control systems, SMEs may struggle with the resources needed to
maintain high standards, leading to potential discrepancies in product quality.
The
regulatory environment, overseen by the Central Drugs Standard Control
Organization (CDSCO) and state-level authorities, has made strides in
tightening quality controls. However, the enforcement of these regulations
remains inconsistent. The approval process for new drugs and manufacturing
practices can be protracted, and frequent updates to regulatory requirements
can be challenging for companies to keep pace with. This inconsistency can lead
to gaps in compliance, making it easier for substandard products to enter the
market.
Counterfeiting
poses an even more severe threat to the pharmaceutical sector in India. The
proliferation of counterfeit drugs undermines public trust and poses grave
health risks. These counterfeit products often enter the supply chain through
various channels, including unregulated distributors and inadequate monitoring at
the retail level. The financial allure of counterfeiting, driven by the high
profitability of imitation drugs, further exacerbates the problem. Counterfeit
drugs can range from entirely fake products to those that are contaminated or
contain incorrect dosages, making them a serious health hazard.
According
to a report by Express Pharma published in January 2023, counterfeiting is most
prevalent in the FMCG, apparel, and agrochemical sectors, accounting for
approximately 30 percent of instances. This is followed by the pharmaceutical,
automotive, and consumer durables sectors, which experience counterfeiting
rates of 20 to 25 percent. The report highlights that nearly 27 percent of
consumers were unaware they had purchased counterfeit products at the time of
purchase. This underscores the urgent need to enhance awareness and educate
consumers on how to identify counterfeit goods. The top sectors where consumers
most frequently encounter counterfeit products are apparel (31 percent), FMCG
(28 percent), and automotive (25 percent), followed by pharmaceuticals (20
percent), consumer durables (17 percent), and agrochemicals (16 percent).
Efforts
to combat counterfeiting include enhanced surveillance and the adoption of
advanced technologies such as serialization and anti-counterfeiting measures.
Serialization involves assigning a unique serial number to each package, which
can be tracked throughout the supply chain to ensure its authenticity. Despite
these efforts, the sheer scale of the Indian pharmaceutical market and the
sophistication of counterfeit operations pose ongoing challenges.
Key Market Trends
Growing Demand of Biopharmaceuticals
The
Indian pharmaceutical industry is witnessing a transformative shift, with
biopharmaceuticals emerging as a significant growth driver. This trend reflects
a broader global movement towards biologics and advanced therapies,
underscoring India's evolving role in the international pharmaceutical
landscape. The increasing demand for biopharmaceuticals is reshaping the industry,
driven by a confluence of factors that highlight both opportunities and
challenges.
Biopharmaceuticals,
which encompass a range of products including monoclonal antibodies, vaccines,
and gene therapies, are distinguished by their complex production processes and
therapeutic innovations. Unlike traditional small-molecule drugs,
biopharmaceuticals are derived from biological sources and involve intricate
manufacturing techniques. This complexity is matched by their efficacy in
treating a wide array of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and
rare genetic conditions.
India
has demonstrated that an emerging economy can become a leading player in the
critical biopharma sector, developing drugs and vaccines for diseases prevalent
in developing nations. The National Biopharma Mission (NBM) has been
operational in India, supported by the World Bank-financed Innovate in India
for Inclusiveness Project. This initiative facilitates collaboration among
public, private, and academic institutions to address and overcome barriers
that have been impeding innovation in the sector.
One
of the primary catalysts for the growing demand for biopharmaceuticals in India
is the increasing prevalence of chronic and lifestyle-related diseases. India
is experiencing a rise in conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases,
and cancer, which require advanced treatment options. Biopharmaceuticals offer
targeted therapies that address these diseases with greater precision,
improving patient outcomes and quality of life. This shift towards personalized
medicine aligns with the global trend towards more effective and tailored
treatments.
According
to a report published by BioSpectrum in August 2024, the Indian economy has
experienced substantial growth in recent years and is expected to expand at a
rate of 7% over the next two years. The BioEconomy sector, in particular, has
demonstrated significant potential. In 2020, the Indian BioEconomy sector
achieved a notable growth rate of 14.1%, contributing approximately 2.6% to
India's GDP. The sector was valued at USD 80.12 billion in 2021, up from USD
70.2 billion in 2020. As a major global supplier of affordable drugs and
vaccines and home to over 5,000 startups, the Indian BioEconomy sector is
projected to reach a value of USD 300 billion by 2030.
Another
significant factor contributing to the rise of biopharmaceuticals in India is
the robust growth of the biotechnology sector. Indian pharmaceutical companies
are investing heavily in biotechnology research and development, recognizing
the potential for biopharmaceuticals to drive future growth. This investment is
supported by a favorable regulatory environment, as the Indian government is
actively promoting biopharmaceutical innovation through policies and incentives.
The introduction of the National Biotechnology Development Strategy aims to
enhance the sector’s capabilities and foster collaboration between research
institutions and industry players.
The
growing focus on biosimilars is also playing a crucial role in the expansion of
biopharmaceuticals in India. Biosimilars, which are biologic products highly
similar to an already approved reference product, offer a cost-effective
alternative to expensive biologic therapies. The Indian pharmaceutical industry
is well-positioned to leverage its expertise in generics to develop and market
biosimilars, thereby increasing access to essential biologic treatments. This
not only meets domestic healthcare needs but also strengthens India’s position
in the global biopharmaceutical market.
Segmental Insights
Type Insights
Based
on Type, Pharmaceutical Drugs have
emerged as the fastest growing segment in the India Pharmaceutical Market in
2024. One of the primary factors fueling the growth of pharmaceutical drugs in
India is the country’s expanding healthcare needs. India is experiencing a
demographic shift with a growing population and increasing life expectancy,
which results in a higher prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes,
cardiovascular conditions, and cancer. These conditions create a rising demand
for effective pharmaceutical interventions. Additionally, the country faces a
significant burden of infectious diseases, including tuberculosis and malaria,
further driving the need for pharmaceutical solutions.
The
growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has led to an increased
focus on long-term treatment regimens and management strategies. Pharmaceutical
drugs play a critical role in managing these chronic conditions, leading to an
expansion in their usage and, consequently, an increase in market growth. The
need for new and improved drugs to address these health challenges is a
significant factor in the growing demand for pharmaceutical products.
The
Indian pharmaceutical market is witnessing a surge in drug innovations and
advancements, contributing to its rapid growth. Pharmaceutical companies in
India are increasingly investing in research and development (R&D) to
discover novel therapies and enhance existing treatments. The country’s focus on
biotechnology and advanced drug delivery systems has led to the development of
new drugs that offer more effective solutions for a variety of health
conditions.
India’s
pharmaceutical firms are making significant strides in developing generic
drugs, biosimilars, and complex formulations. The emphasis on high-quality
generics has enabled the country to cater to both domestic and international
markets, providing affordable and accessible treatment options. The
introduction of cutting-edge therapies, such as targeted therapies and
immunotherapies for cancer, has further spurred market growth by offering
innovative solutions to previously hard-to-treat conditions.
Drug Classification Insights
Based
on Drug Classification, Generic Drugs have emerged as the dominating segment in
the India Pharmaceutical Market during the forecast period. A significant
factor in the rise of generic drugs is the favorable regulatory environment
established by India’s Patents Act of 1970. This legislation allowed the
production of generic versions of patented drugs, which fundamentally
transformed the pharmaceutical industry. The Act was designed to promote
affordable healthcare by enabling domestic manufacturers to produce and market
cheaper alternatives to branded medications. This regulatory framework has been
pivotal in establishing India as a global leader in the generic drug sector,
providing a competitive advantage that has spurred extensive growth and
innovation within the industry.
India’s
burgeoning population, particularly its aging demographic, has amplified the
demand for affordable healthcare solutions. The rising prevalence of chronic
conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases requires
long-term medication, which increases the need for cost-effective options.
Generics offer a viable solution, providing essential drugs at lower prices
without compromising on quality. The expanding middle class and increasing
healthcare access further fuel the demand for generics, as more people seek
affordable medication options.
India’s
prowess in the generic drug sector is not confined to the domestic market. The
country has become a major exporter of generics, supplying a significant
portion of the world’s generic medications. This global integration has
reinforced the position of Indian generics, with Indian pharmaceutical
companies establishing a strong presence in international markets. The ability
to offer high-quality generics at competitive prices has enabled Indian firms
to capture substantial market shares in developed countries, further enhancing
the industry’s growth and influence.
Despite
their lower cost, Indian pharmaceutical companies have made substantial
investments in research and development to enhance the quality and efficacy of
generic drugs. This commitment to innovation has led to the development of
complex generics and biosimilars, which cater to specialized medical needs and
offer additional revenue streams for companies. Technological advancements in
manufacturing processes have also improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness,
reinforcing the competitive edge of Indian generics.
Download Free Sample Report
Regional Insights
Based
on Region, West India have emerged as the dominating region in the India Pharmaceutical
Market in 2024. West India, particularly the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat,
benefits from a well-developed industrial infrastructure that has significantly
contributed to its dominance in the pharmaceutical market. Maharashtra, with
Mumbai as its commercial hub, offers a thriving ecosystem for pharmaceutical
companies. The city is home to a substantial number of multinational
corporations (MNCs) and domestic pharmaceutical firms, drawn by its advanced
infrastructure, availability of skilled talent, and proximity to major ports.
This geographical advantage facilitates efficient import and export operations,
essential for global pharmaceutical trade.
Gujarat,
another key player in West India, has emerged as a pharmaceutical powerhouse
due to its conducive business environment and government policies that favor
industrial growth. The state government has implemented several initiatives to
attract pharmaceutical investments, including offering incentives for setting
up manufacturing units and research facilities. Gujarat's well-established
chemical and pharmaceutical industrial parks, such as the Gujarat Industrial
Development Corporation (GIDC) estates, provide companies with the necessary
infrastructure and logistical support to thrive.
The
presence of a strong network of research and development (R&D) facilities
further cements West India’s position in the pharmaceutical sector. The region
is home to numerous R&D centers and institutions that foster innovation and
support pharmaceutical development. Collaboration between academia and industry
in West India has led to significant advancements in drug development and
manufacturing processes. The region's focus on R&D is crucial in
maintaining a competitive edge in the global pharmaceutical market,
particularly in the development of generic drugs and specialty pharmaceuticals.
Recent Development
- In
April 2024, Sanofi India, a leading French pharmaceutical company, is preparing
to introduce several groundbreaking drugs to the Indian market. Notable among
these upcoming launches are Soliqua, a pre-mixed insulin, and Rezurock, a drug
intended for bone marrow transplants. Soliqua, which received marketing
authorization from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in
2023, is already on the market. Rezurock is expected to launch by December 2024
or early January 2025.
- In
September 2023, the Indian government unveiled a USD 595.50 million initiative
aimed at bolstering research and development in the pharmaceuticals and medical
technology sectors. This scheme includes a program to allocate over USD 131
million to nine pharmaceutical companies for research in six priority areas, in
collaboration with academic institutions. Additionally, the initiative will
invest USD 357.30 million in commercializing 30 R&D products and
establishing seven Centers of Excellence for pharmaceutical research within
existing National Institutes for Pharmaceutical Education and Research.
- In
October 2023, Roche Pharma India launched a clinical trial excellence project
aimed at enhancing the capabilities of public health institutions to conduct
clinical trials and drug research. This initiative seeks to transform
government hospitals into centers of excellence for clinical research, thus
advancing their role in the pharmaceutical value chain. The Kalyan Singh Super
Specialty Cancer Institute (KSSSCI) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, became the first
institution to collaborate with Roche on this project. KSSSCI, a 750-bed
state-of-the-art cancer center established by the Uttar Pradesh government, is
actively engaged in cancer research and education.
Key Market Players
- Sun Pharmaceutical
Industries Limited
- Divis
Laboratories Limited
- Cipla
Limited
- Dr.
Reddy’s Laboratories Limited
- Torrent
Pharmaceutical Limited
- Zydus
Lifesciences Limited
- Abbott
India Limited
- Alkem
Laboratories Limited
- Biocon
Limited
- Lupin
Limited
- Mankind
Pharma Limited
- Intas
Pharmaceuticals Limited
- Piramal
Enterprises Limited
- Wockhardt
Limited
- Glenmark
Pharma Limited
|
By
Type
|
By
Drug Classification
|
By
Mode of Purchase
|
By
Distribution Channel
|
By
Region
|
- Pharmaceutical
Drugs
- Biologics
|
- Branded Drugs
- Generic Drugs
|
- Prescription-Based Drugs
- Over-the-counter Drugs
|
- Hospital Pharmacies
- Retail Pharmacies
- Online Pharmacies
|
- North
India
- East
India
- West
India
- South
India
|
Report Scope
In this report, the India Pharmaceutical Market has
been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry
trends which have also been detailed below:
- India Pharmaceutical Market, By Type:
o Pharmaceutical Drugs
o Biologics
- India Pharmaceutical Market, By Drug Classification:
o Branded Drugs
o Generic Drugs
- India Pharmaceutical Market, By Mode of Purchase:
o Prescription-Based Drugs
o Over-the-counter Drugs
- India Pharmaceutical Market, By Distribution Channel:
o Hospital Pharmacies
o Retail Pharmacies
o Online Pharmacies
- India Pharmaceutical Market, By Region:
o North India
o East India
o West India
o South India
Competitive Landscape
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the India
Pharmaceutical Market.
Available Customizations:
India Pharmaceutical Market report with the given
market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to a company's
specific needs. The following customization options are available for the
report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and profiling of additional
market players (up to five).
India Pharmaceutical
Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery
of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]