Vietnam Wheelchair Market By Product Type (Manual Wheelchair, Powered Wheelchair), By Category (Adult, Paediatric), By Application (Basic Wheelchair, Bariatric Wheelchair, Sports Wheelchair, Others), By End User (Healthcare Facilities, Home Care), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Vietnam Wheelchair Market was valued at USD 56.10 Million in 2024 and is anticipated to project impressive growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 6.20% through 2030. The Vietnamese wheelchair market is set for significant growth, fueled by an aging demographic, a rising number of spinal injuries, and innovations in wheelchair technology. However, challenges remain in maintaining affordability, ensuring widespread access, and delivering consistent quality. Tackling these issues is essential for long-term market sustainability. With favorable demographic trends, enhanced healthcare infrastructure, and supportive government policies, the market is positioned for upward growth. To maximize opportunities, stakeholders must prioritize cost-effective solutions, broader accessibility, and high-quality standards.

Key Market Drivers

Aging Population

The aging population in Vietnam is one of the most significant drivers behind the growth of the wheelchair market. Vietnam is experiencing one of the fastest aging trends globally. In 2019, individuals aged 60 and above accounted for 11.9% of the total population, and this figure is projected to exceed 25% by 2050. By 2036, the country will officially transition from an "ageing" to an "aged" society, signaling significant demographic shifts that will have substantial implications for social services, healthcare, and the economy. As the median age of the population increases, the demand for mobility aids, particularly wheelchairs, is rising. This demographic shift presents both opportunities and challenges for the healthcare and mobility sectors. With age, the prevalence of mobility issues, such as joint problems, muscle weakness, and chronic conditions like arthritis, increases.

The elderly are more susceptible to conditions that limit their ability to move freely. As these individuals experience a decline in physical mobility, the need for wheelchairs becomes more pronounced. Wheelchairs offer a solution to enhance their independence, enabling them to continue daily activities with ease. Older individuals often require wheelchairs that are specifically designed to accommodate medical conditions associated with aging, such as obesity, stroke, or diabetes. The need for specialized wheelchairs, such as bariatric models, powered wheelchairs, and models with enhanced comfort features, is growing in tandem with the aging population. Manufacturers are responding by developing more diverse wheelchair options to cater to the unique needs of older consumers. Vietnam’s improving healthcare system and overall better living standards have contributed to a rising life expectancy. In 2024, Vietnam's life expectancy reached 75.91 years, reflecting a 0.18% increase from 2023. The previous year, 2023, saw a life expectancy of 75.77 years, marking a 0.13% rise compared to 2022. Similarly, in 2022, the life expectancy stood at 75.67 years, representing a 0.13% growth from 2021. These steady incremental increases highlight ongoing improvements in public health and healthcare access in the country. As people live longer, there is a greater likelihood that they will experience age-related mobility challenges later in life. This extended lifespan not only increases the need for mobility solutions but also expands the potential market size for wheelchairs, especially those that offer long-term durability and adaptability.

The aging population has prompted the Vietnamese government to prioritize elderly care. Government initiatives and social policies are being introduced to improve the quality of life for older citizens, which includes making mobility aids like wheelchairs more accessible. Subsidies, grants, and insurance programs aimed at elderly individuals increase the affordability of wheelchairs, further driving demand in this demographic. There has been a growing social awareness about the importance of elderly care and mobility assistance. With a more active civil society and media coverage highlighting the needs of the elderly, there is greater recognition of the necessity for wheelchairs as mobility aids. This has contributed to a culture where families, healthcare providers, and local governments prioritize the welfare of older individuals, leading to increased demand for accessible and quality mobility aids.

The aging population is also contributing to the rising demand for home-based healthcare. Older individuals prefer to receive care in familiar settings, which often includes the need for mobility aids like wheelchairs. As more elderly individuals choose homecare over institutionalized care, the requirement for mobility solutions in home settings is growing, which further accelerates market demand. Vietnam’s aging population is a key factor driving the growth of the wheelchair market. As the elderly population increases, so does the demand for mobility aids, including specialized wheelchairs. This trend is amplified by government initiatives, rising awareness of elderly welfare, and the desire for more independent living solutions. Manufacturers and stakeholders in the wheelchair market must strategically focus on catering to this demographic by providing accessible, specialized, and durable products that meet the evolving needs of Vietnam’s aging population.

Prevalence of Disabilities and Spinal Injuries

The increasing prevalence of disabilities and spinal injuries in Vietnam significantly contributes to the expansion of the wheelchair market. Recent data based on the World Health Organization's (WHO) International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework reveals that individuals with disabilities comprise 15.3% of Vietnam's total population. This statistic underscores the significant proportion of the population requiring targeted support and services, highlighting both challenges and opportunities in addressing disability inclusion and accessibility. As the number of individuals suffering from various forms of disability and spinal injuries grows, the demand for mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, has risen correspondingly. Urbanization has been a key driver of Vietnam’s economic success, with the proportion of the population residing in urban areas rising from under 20% in 1990 to over 37.55% in 2022. This demographic shift has fueled economic growth by fostering denser labor markets and agglomeration economies, concentrating talent and skills in urban centers, thereby enhancing productivity and driving prosperity. 

As Vietnam experiences urbanization, industrialization, and motorization, the incidence of disability-related conditions is climbing. These include both congenital disabilities and those arising from accidents, illnesses, or age-related conditions. Disabilities such as paralysis, cerebral palsy, and neuromuscular diseases often result in a need for long-term mobility support, particularly wheelchairs. Individuals affected by these conditions rely heavily on wheelchairs for mobility, which increases demand for both standard and specialized wheelchair solutions. Spinal cord injuries (SCI) in Vietnam, particularly those resulting from road accidents, falls, and occupational hazards, are a growing concern. These injuries often lead to partial or complete paralysis, which necessitates the use of wheelchairs for mobility. The increasing prevalence of SCI in the country has directly contributed to the demand for specialized wheelchairs that cater to individuals with varying levels of mobility. Powered wheelchairs, adjustable models, and those designed for specific needs such as sports or bariatric wheelchairs are seeing higher demand as a result of this growing demographic.

Improvements in healthcare, particularly in trauma care and spinal rehabilitation, have led to higher survival rates for individuals who sustain severe spinal injuries. As medical advances allow more individuals to survive these injuries, there is an increasing need for long-term mobility aids such as wheelchairs. The rising number of people living with permanent disabilities creates an expanding market for wheelchairs, especially those designed for long-term comfort and daily use. Growing awareness around health issues and improved diagnostic capabilities have led to earlier identification of disabilities, especially those related to spinal injuries. With better detection, more individuals are seeking mobility aids to manage their conditions. This growing awareness, coupled with access to healthcare and rehabilitation services, is driving demand for a broader range of wheelchair options, from manual to highly specialized powered models, designed to accommodate various levels of disability. The rise in the prevalence of disabilities and spinal injuries has fueled a broader societal focus on improving the quality of life for affected individuals. This includes investing in better rehabilitation solutions, such as more advanced wheelchairs that offer greater comfort, ease of use, and functionality. Individuals living with disabilities are increasingly seeking products that enhance their mobility and independence, spurring innovation in the wheelchair market and further driving its growth.

The Vietnamese government and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are taking proactive steps to address the needs of individuals with disabilities, including spinal injuries. Social welfare programs, rehabilitation support, and disability-inclusive policies are contributing to increased accessibility to wheelchairs. Furthermore, financial assistance schemes or insurance coverage for mobility aids have made wheelchairs more affordable and accessible to a larger segment of the population, including those in rural areas who may previously have had limited access to such devices. As the number of individuals with spinal injuries and disabilities increases, there is a greater demand for technologically advanced wheelchair solutions. Innovations such as powered wheelchairs, ergonomic designs, lightweight materials, and customizable features are addressing the specific needs of individuals with spinal injuries.

The development of wheelchairs with better suspension systems, improved battery life, and smarter interfaces is particularly attractive to those with spinal injuries who require additional functionality and convenience. This technological shift is driving market growth by offering solutions that improve both mobility and the overall user experience. The rising prevalence of disabilities and spinal injuries in Vietnam is directly driving the demand for wheelchairs. As more individuals require mobility aids for long-term use, manufacturers are responding by developing more diverse, specialized, and technologically advanced products. Government support and greater awareness of disability-related issues also contribute to the expansion of the market. The growth of this segment presents opportunities for both local and international companies to innovate and meet the needs of an increasingly diverse consumer base.

Increasing Economic Growth and Rising Disposable

Increasing economic growth and rising disposable income in Vietnam are key factors propelling the growth of the wheelchair market. Vietnam has become one of America's top-ten trading partners, with its export portfolio shifting dramatically from traditional products like coffee and coconuts to high-tech goods, including computers, mobile phones, and other electronics. This transformation represents one of the most remarkable economic successes in modern history. Between 1990 and 2022, Vietnam's per capita GDP grew more than fivefold, climbing from $2,100 to $11,400 (in 2017 dollars), underscoring the nation’s rapid economic development and its increasing integration into the global economy. As the country experiences a steady rise in economic development and living standards, consumers are gaining greater financial independence, which directly impacts their ability to access mobility aids such as wheelchairs.

As Vietnam’s economy grows, the purchasing power of its population increases. This, in turn, allows more individuals to afford higher-quality, specialized wheelchairs that were previously out of reach due to financial constraints. The growing middle class, particularly in urban areas, is more likely to invest in advanced wheelchair options that offer enhanced features, comfort, and durability. This affordability factor drives demand for a wider range of products, from manual to powered and bariatric wheelchairs, as more consumers are able to prioritize mobility aids in their healthcare budgets.

Economic growth leads to increased government and private sector investments in healthcare infrastructure. Vietnam’s 2021-2030 master plan sets ambitious targets for the country’s economic transformation, aiming to become an upper-middle-income nation by 2030 and a developed, high-income economy by 2050. The plan outlines key objectives, including an average annual GDP growth rate of 7% from 2021 to 2030 and a target GDP per capita of approximately $7,500 by 2030. These goals reflect Vietnam’s commitment to driving sustainable economic development and improving living standards in the coming decades. With a stronger focus on healthcare services, the availability of medical devices, including wheelchairs, becomes more widespread. Public and private healthcare providers, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers are increasingly offering wheelchairs as part of comprehensive care packages. As healthcare spending rises, so does the accessibility of mobility solutions, driving growth in the wheelchair market. As disposable income increases, consumers are becoming more selective and willing to pay a premium for high-quality, tailored wheelchair solutions.

There is a growing demand for wheelchairs with advanced features such as powered motors, ergonomic designs, enhanced comfort, and better durability. Wealthier individuals are more likely to invest in products that improve their quality of life and cater to specific mobility needs. This shift toward premium products boosts the growth of the market as manufacturers develop more sophisticated solutions to meet evolving consumer expectations. With higher disposable income, more families and individuals are investing in home-based healthcare and rehabilitation services, including mobility aids such as wheelchairs. The elderly population, in particular, often requires mobility assistance, and families are more willing to spend on high-quality products that enhance their loved ones' comfort and mobility. This investment in elderly care and rehabilitation is a direct result of higher disposable income, which contributes to the growing demand for wheelchairs across various market segments.

Vietnam’s expanding middle class and rapid urbanization are pivotal drivers in the wheelchair market. As the country’s urban areas continue to grow, more people are accessing a broader range of healthcare services and medical products. Urban consumers are more likely to have access to a variety of wheelchair options, both in terms of price points and advanced technologies. Moreover, urbanization often brings better healthcare facilities, including rehabilitation centers, which increases demand for wheelchairs as part of comprehensive mobility solutions for the aging population and individuals with disabilities. Economic growth and higher disposable income have led to an increase in consumer awareness around health and wellness. With improved financial resources, people are more proactive in seeking ways to enhance their quality of life, including investing in mobility aids.

Wheelchairs are increasingly seen as essential tools for improving independence and mobility, particularly for individuals with disabilities or age-related impairments. As consumers become more educated about their healthcare options, they are more likely to invest in mobility solutions that improve their lifestyle, contributing to the growth of the wheelchair market. As the economy grows, private health insurance coverage is becoming more common, allowing individuals to access a wider range of healthcare services, including wheelchairs. Many health insurance policies now cover the cost of mobility aids, making it more affordable for consumers to acquire wheelchairs. This expansion of insurance coverage increases the accessibility of wheelchairs and drives market growth, especially for individuals who might otherwise have struggled to afford such devices.

The combination of increasing economic growth and rising disposable income in Vietnam plays a critical role in driving the growth of the wheelchair market. With greater purchasing power, improved healthcare access, and a focus on quality of life solutions, Vietnamese consumers are increasingly able to invest in mobility aids that meet their specific needs. These economic trends not only drive demand for basic wheelchair models but also pave the way for more sophisticated, premium products that cater to a growing, diverse customer base. The resulting market expansion presents significant opportunities for manufacturers to innovate and capture a larger share of the market.

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Key Market Challenges

Affordability and Pricing Issues

One of the primary challenges limiting the growth of the wheelchair market in Vietnam is the affordability of wheelchairs, particularly for lower-income households and those in rural areas. While the demand for wheelchairs is increasing, many potential users face financial constraints that make it difficult to purchase the necessary mobility aids. High-quality wheelchairs, especially powered models or specialized solutions (e.g., bariatric or sports wheelchairs), can be prohibitively expensive, leaving a significant portion of the population unable to access these devices.

Furthermore, despite increasing disposable income in urban areas, the gap between the affluent and the economically disadvantaged is still substantial. This disparity in income limits the market’s potential to reach lower-income individuals and rural communities, who are often most in need of affordable mobility solutions. Inadequate financial support systems, including insurance coverage or subsidies for individuals with disabilities, further exacerbates this issue.

Limited Availability and Distribution Network

The lack of a robust distribution and supply chain network in rural and remote areas remains a significant barrier to the growth of the wheelchair market. While larger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City benefit from a better healthcare infrastructure, rural areas often lack access to specialized mobility aids. The absence of local distributors and healthcare providers who can deliver, fit, and maintain wheelchairs means that many individuals, particularly in less urbanized regions, do not have easy access to wheelchairs.

The lack of availability also extends to the range of wheelchair types offered. Many areas still primarily stock basic models, leaving consumers with fewer options for more specialized products that cater to specific needs. Without a widespread network of suppliers and service providers, it is challenging to meet the growing demand for a variety of wheelchairs, particularly those that incorporate advanced features or customized solutions.

Key Market Trends

Technological Advancements and Smart Wheelchairs

One of the most significant trends in the Vietnamese wheelchair market is the adoption of advanced technologies, including smart wheelchairs and innovations in wheelchair materials. The integration of cutting-edge technology into mobility aids is transforming the wheelchair market. Smart wheelchairs, for example, now incorporate features such as motorized assistance, Bluetooth connectivity, sensors for enhanced safety, and GPS navigation systems to improve ease of use and autonomy. These innovations offer users greater comfort, control, and independence, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with severe mobility impairments.

In addition, lightweight, durable materials such as carbon fiber and titanium are becoming more commonly used in wheelchair construction, offering significant improvements in portability, strength, and comfort. The trend toward high-tech wheelchairs, including those with customizable features, aligns with consumer demand for more personalized, efficient, and feature-rich mobility solutions. This technological advancement will likely drive higher adoption rates, particularly among tech-savvy consumers and those looking for more sophisticated solutions.

Growth of Online Sales and E-Commerce Platforms

The increasing reliance on e-commerce and online shopping is another prominent trend influencing the growth of the wheelchair market in Vietnam. With rising internet penetration and the shift toward digital platforms for healthcare products, more consumers are turning to online channels to purchase mobility aids. E-commerce platforms provide consumers with easier access to a wider range of wheelchair options, detailed product specifications, and customer reviews, helping them make more informed purchasing decisions.

Online retailers are also offering the convenience of home delivery, which is particularly beneficial for individuals living in rural areas or places where physical stores are limited. In addition, the rise of online platforms opens up opportunities for wheelchair manufacturers to expand their market reach, as they can now target a broader geographic area, including underserved rural communities. The growing trend of online sales also paves the way for the emergence of subscription-based models and direct-to-consumer services, which can further enhance market accessibility.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

Based on the category of Product Type, the Manual Wheelchair segment emerged as the dominant in the Vietnam Wheelchair Market in 2024. the primary reasons for the dominance of manual wheelchairs in Vietnam is their affordability. Manual wheelchairs are significantly more cost-effective compared to powered or motorized wheelchairs, making them accessible to a broader segment of the population. With a large proportion of the population still in lower income brackets, affordability remains a critical factor in purchasing decisions. For many individuals, especially in rural areas, manual wheelchairs provide an essential mobility solution without the financial burden associated with higher-end powered models. Furthermore, the lower initial investment cost of manual wheelchairs makes them a preferred option for healthcare institutions, NGOs, and government organizations that may be working with limited budgets. These organizations often rely on manual wheelchairs for distribution to those in need, further reinforcing their dominant market share.

Manual wheelchairs are widely available across Vietnam, with extensive distribution networks in both urban and rural areas. Given their lower cost, manual wheelchairs are easier to manufacture and distribute, making them more readily accessible to consumers in both large cities and more remote regions. Many healthcare providers, rehabilitation centers, and local suppliers focus on stocking manual models due to their simplicity and ease of use. Additionally, the support infrastructure for manual wheelchairs, including repair services and replacement parts, is well-established. The relatively simple construction of manual wheelchairs means that they can be easily repaired and maintained, especially in less urbanized areas where access to specialized services may be limited. This widespread availability and support network contribute to the continued dominance of manual wheelchairs in the market.

Manual wheelchairs are often preferred due to their straightforward design and ease of use. Unlike powered wheelchairs, which require users to be familiar with electronic controls or need assistance for charging, manual wheelchairs can be operated without any complex mechanisms. This simplicity makes them an ideal option for individuals who have a basic understanding of how to use a mobility aid and are seeking an immediate, practical solution. The user-friendliness of manual wheelchairs also appeals to caregivers and family members who assist with mobility. In many cases, family members or caregivers help push manual wheelchairs, providing the added benefit of cost savings for users who cannot afford powered models or do not need the enhanced features that powered wheelchairs provide. These factors contribute to the growth of this segment.

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Regional Insights

South Vietnam emerged as the dominant region in the Vietnam Wheelchairs market in 2024, holding the largest market share in terms of value. South Vietnam, particularly the Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) metropolitan area, is the economic powerhouse of the country. As Vietnam’s largest and most industrialized region, it boasts a significantly higher level of disposable income compared to other regions, which directly influences demand for mobility aids, including wheelchairs. The presence of numerous multinational corporations, a vibrant business environment, and a growing middle class contribute to higher financial independence, enabling consumers to access higher-quality, advanced mobility solutions. With an affluent population and rising purchasing power, there is a clear preference for a wider range of wheelchair options, from basic manual models to high-tech, powered wheelchairs. This market segment, driven by the increasing purchasing power of individuals and families, pushes the demand for mobility solutions in South Vietnam higher than in other regions, where affordability remains a larger concern.

South Vietnam is home to some of the country’s largest urban centers, including Ho Chi Minh City, the economic capital. The rapid urbanization in this region has led to a more developed healthcare infrastructure, with better accessibility to healthcare services and products, including wheelchairs. The presence of modern hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and specialized healthcare institutions in urban centers contributes to a higher demand for mobility aids as part of comprehensive patient care. In addition, South Vietnam's urbanized areas are better equipped with the infrastructure to support individuals with mobility impairments, including accessible transportation systems, hospitals, and public spaces. The availability of quality healthcare and rehabilitation services further stimulates the demand for wheelchairs, particularly advanced models designed for comfort, durability, and ease of use. These regions also benefit from higher levels of public awareness regarding disabilities and the need for mobility aids. South Vietnam has a higher concentration of people with disabilities compared to other regions, largely due to the region’s larger population and its significant role in the industrial and healthcare sectors.

The urbanized areas in the South, especially in cities like Ho Chi Minh City, have seen an increase in the number of people living with physical disabilities as a result of accidents, health conditions, and aging demographics. This trend contributes to a growing demand for wheelchairs as a mobility solution. The healthcare system in South Vietnam is also more likely to diagnose and address disabilities at earlier stages, encouraging the use of wheelchairs and mobility aids. Additionally, urbanization and industrial development have led to increased workplace-related accidents, further contributing to the demand for rehabilitation products, including wheelchairs. The higher awareness and presence of disability support organizations in the south also drive the market, ensuring that people with disabilities receive appropriate mobility aids.

Recent Developments

• In November 2023- Samsung Vietnam has made a significant contribution to Bac Giang province by donating 150 wheelchairs to individuals with disabilities and providing 200 scholarships to students facing financial hardship. This initiative underscores the company’s commitment to supporting social welfare and promoting inclusiveness within the local community.
• In January 2022, Vietnamese student entrepreneur Din Tuan Anh, a current student at Lac Hong University, is turning his long-held vision of developing an electric wheelchair into a tangible product. Inspired by his high school experiences and leveraging knowledge gained from the Engineering Projects in Community Service program at Arizona State University, Tuan Anh is working to bring his innovative project, AutoMov, to life. This initiative aims to revolutionize wheelchair mobility by integrating electric technology, enhancing user independence and comfort.

Key Market Players

• Aikin Holding Corp. Vietnam Manufacturer
• Vietnam Precision Industrial Joint Stock Company
• Kenda Rubber (Vietnam) Co., Ltd.
• An Viet Long Co., Ltd.
• Mz Vietnam Co., Ltd
• Wus Tech (Vietnam) Co., Ltd.
• Oia Global Vietnam Co., Ltd.
• Wus Tech (Vietnam) Co., Ltd.
• Ben Thanh Investment
• Technet JSC

Report Scope:

In this report, the Vietnam Wheelchair Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Vietnam Wheelchair Market, By Product:

o   Manual Wheelchair

o   Powered Wheelchair

• Vietnam Wheelchair Market, By Category:

o   Adult

o   Paediatric

• Vietnam Wheelchair Market, By Application:

o   Basic Wheelchair

o   Bariatric Wheelchair

o   Sports Wheelchair

o   Others

• Vietnam Wheelchair Market, By End User:

o   Healthcare Facilities

o   Home Care

• Vietnam Wheelchair Market, By Region:

o   Northern Vietnam

o   Central Vietnam

o   Southern Vietnam

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Vietnam Wheelchair Market.

Available Customizations:

 Vietnam Wheelchair market report with the given market data, TechSci 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).