Empty Capsules Market size is estimated to be valued at USD 3.42 Bn in 2025 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 6.5%, reaching USD 5.32 Bn by 2032.

The global empty capsule market is worth USD 3.19 billion in 2025 and is poised to reach USD 6.89 billion by 2035, which depicts a CAGR of 8.0% over the forecast period.

Metric	Value
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 3.19 billion
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 6.89 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	8%

Empty Capsule Market Analyzed by Top Investment Segments

Product Type Segment	Market Share (2025)
Gelatin-Based Capsules	60.2%

Raw Material Segment	Market Share (2025)
Type-B Gelatin	30.2%

Capsule Size Segment	Market Share (2025)
Size "0"	38.2%

Route of Administration	Market Share (2025)
Oral Administration	87.4%

End User Segment	Market Share (2025)
Pharmaceutical Companies	61.3%

Country-wise Analysis

Nation	United States
CAGR	8.8%

Nation	Germany
CAGR	8.4%

Country	Japan
CAGR	7.8%

Nation	Canada
CAGR	6.2%

Nation	Italy
CAGR	3.2%

The Empty Capsules Market Report is Segmented by Product (Gelatin Capsules and Non-Gelatin Capsules), Functionality (Immediate-Release Capsules, and More), Therapeutic Application (Antibiotic & Antibacterial, and More), End User (Pharmaceutical Industry, and More), Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, The Middle East and Africa, and South America). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The global empty capsules market size is expected to reach USD 4.79 Billion by 2030 according to a new study by Polaris Market Research.

Global Empty Capsules market size is expected to reach $5.28 billion by 2029 at 10.8%, impact of rising chronic disease prevalence on pharmaceutical delivery solutions

The global empty capsules market was valued at USD 2.69 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% during the forecast period.

The value of the global market for pharmaceutical empty capsules is expected to reach around four billion U.S. dollars by 2032. When it comes to functionality of the capsules, delayed-release capsules make up the largest single part of the market, and are expected to reach around 1.6 billion U.S. dollars by 2032. Capsules are essential for the drug delivery of many medicines and are the second most used dosage form after tablets.

Empty Capsules Market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from USD 1.86 bn in 2019 to USD 2.90 bn in 2027. The main drivers of growth include an increasing geriatric population, the strong demand in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical & cosmeceutical industries for empty capsules.

The Empty Capsules Market size is expected to reach a valuation of USD 6.70 billion in 2033 growing at a CAGR of 8.5%. The Empty Capsules market research report classifies market by share, trend, demand, forecast and based on segmentation.

As per Cognitive Market Research's latest published report, the Global Empty Hard Gelatin Capsules market size was $1,352.14 Million in 2024 and it is forecasted to reach $2,273.98 Million by 2030. Empty Hard Gelatin Capsules Industry's Compound Annual Growth Rate will be 9.36% from 2024 to 2031. Market Dynamics of the Empty Hard Gelatin Capsules Market

Market Driver for the Empty Hard Gelatin Capsules Market

Rise in prevalence of chronic diseases is driving the market growth

Drug delivery nanosystems (DDnS) is widely developed recently. Gelatin is a high-potential biomaterial originated from natural resources for anticancer DDnS, which can effectively improve the utilization of anticancer drugs and reduce side effects. The hydrophilic, amphoteric behaviour and sol-gel transition of gelatin can be used to fulfil various requirements of anticancer DDnS. Additionally, the high number of multifunctional groups on the surface of gelatin provides the possibility of crosslinking and further modifications. Pharmaceutical products are high-quality products to combat acute or chronic diseases in a reproducible manner. These require that the products achieve the claims set forth on their label, are not contaminated and are readily available to the patients. Hard gelatin capsule is a traditional pharmaceutical dosage form whereby the empty capsules are provided as an excipient for development and manufacturing. As a major excipient of the pharmaceutical product, the quality attributes of empty hard capsule is expected to play an important role in the final product quality and performance.

The rising number of cancer and diabetes cases is boosting the demand for miniature pumps in the medical industry. For instance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, data 2022, in United States a total number of 38.4 million people have diabetes which accounts for 11.6% of US population. Whereas, out of above 38.4 million people, about 29.7 million people including 29.4 million adults have been diagnosed with diabetes. The burden of cancer in the EU is high and rising. Cancer causes 1 in 4 deaths and is the second leading cause of death, illness, and disability in many EU countries. In 2020, 2.7 million people in the EU were diagnosed with cancer, 1.3 million individuals died from cancer, and cases are estimated to increase by 24% by 2035, making it the leading cause of death in the EU. The overall economic impact of cancer in Europe is estimated to exceed €100 billion annually. Further, according to the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations, data 2021, Europe, there were about 53,000 new cervical cancer cases annually that are attributed to HPV infection and there are estimates of more than 60,000 deaths annually due to liver cancer. There were an estimated 19.3 million new cases (18.1 million excluding NMSC, except basal cell carcinoma) and 10 million cancer deaths (9.9 million excluding NMSC, except basal cell carcinoma) worldwide in 2020 Europe accounts for 22.8% of the total cancer cases and 19.6% of the cancer deaths, although it represents 9.7% of the global population, followed by the Americas' 20.9% of incidence and 14.2% of mortality worldwide. Thus, owing to all the above factors, the demand for empty hard gelatin capsules is expected to increase during the forecast period.

Increased demand of nutraceutical products in form of capsules is elevating market growth

A growing demand exists for nutraceuticals, which seem to reside in the grey area between pharmaceuticals and food. Nutraceuticals, up today, do not have a specific definition distinct from those of other food-derived categories, e.g., food supplements, herbal products, functional foods, and fortified foods. They have, however, a pharmacological beneficial effect on health. Nutraceutical use is growing fast and is well accepted by people for its all-natural origin. Nutraceuticals cannot replace pharmaceuticals but can be used in the prevention and cure of some pathological conditions. Nutraceutical is a food or part of food capable of providing beneficial health effects, including the prevention and the treatment of disease, which is not applicable to food supplements. The excessive demand for natural healthcare has dramatically improved the price of hospital treatment, so humans have used herbal nutritional food, dietary supplements, and nutraceuticals for the usage...

The global empty capsules market value was USD 2.43 Billion in 2024, driven by the increasing demand for capsule-based pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products across the globe. The market size is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.00% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to achieve a value of USD 4.78 Billion by 2034.

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Empty Capsules Market Size 2024-2028

The empty capsules market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.06 billion at a CAGR of 7.08% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing applications In the pharmaceutical industry. The demand for generic drugs is driving market expansion, as these drugs often come In the form of empty capsules that can be filled with various active ingredients. However, the market also faces challenges, including the risk of counterfeiting In the pharmaceutical industry. Counterfeiters may produce and fill empty capsules with substandard or even harmful substances, posing a serious threat to public health. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, starch, pullulan, and other materials are commonly used in capsule production. To mitigate this issue, regulations and standards are being implemented to ensure the authenticity and quality of empty capsules. Additionally, advancements in technology are enabling the production of high-quality, cost-effective empty capsules, further fueling market growth. Overall, the market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, driven by these key trends and challenges.

What will be the Size of the Empty Capsules Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for nutraceuticals and dietary supplements in addressing non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and cancer. Health-conscious consumers prioritize personal health and seek out nutraceutical ingredients that cater to dietary restrictions and cultural practices. In response, the market offers various capsule formulations, including those that are vegan, free of gelatin, and environmentally friendly.
Moreover, the pharmaceutical sector also leverages empty capsules for drug delivery innovations, as they serve as inert substances for medicinal agents. The aging population and the cosmeceutical industry further expand the market's reach, as empty capsules are utilized for various applications beyond nutritional supplements. The trend toward plant-based alternatives and minimizing negative effects on the environment fuels the development of new capsule technologies.

How is this Empty Capsules Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The empty capsules industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Type

  Gelatin capsules
  Non-Gelatin capsules


Geography

  North America

    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK


  Asia

    China
    Japan


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The gelatin capsules segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The gelatin capsules segment dominates the market due to its widespread usage In the pharmaceutical sector. These capsules are derived from hydrolyzed collagen, which can be of animal origin or cellulose-based. Gelatin's advantages include being odorless, tasteless, gluten-free, GMO-free, and offering a benign oral dosage. In the pharmaceutical industry, gelatin acts as a thickener, foaming agent, plasticizer, and binder. Its texture also makes it suitable for various applications. The convenience of gelatin capsules lies In their reliable dosing, portability, and high consumer compliance. The nutraceutical industry also utilizes gelatin capsules for dietary supplements, including anti-anemic preparations, anti-inflammatory drugs, and cardiovascular therapy drugs.

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The gelatin capsules segment was valued at USD 1.33 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 47% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The North American market is projected to expand significantly due to the increasing demand for pharmaceutical drugs, particularly In the US and Canada. The US market growth is attributed to the presence of numerous pharmaceutical companies, the introduction of new branded drugs, and the rising demand for FDA-approved generic medicines, primarily from the elderly population. In Canada, the market is driven by the increasing healthcare expenditure and the demand for advanced pharmaceutical drugs. Nutraceutical industry growth, including dietary supplements, anti-anemic preparations, anti-inflammatory drugs, and cardiovascular therapy drugs, also contributes to the market expansion. Both ge

The global Advanced Empty Capsules Market is estimated to be valued at USD 1,047.7 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 2,080.3 million by 2035, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% over the forecast period.

Metric	Value
Market Size in 2025	USD 1,047.7 million
Projected Market Size in 2035	USD 2,080.3 million
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	7.1%

Country-wise Outlook- Advanced Empty Capsule Market

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
USA	7.5%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
UK	7.3%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
European Union (EU)	7.4%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
Japan	7.6%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
South Korea	7.7%

The Halal Empty Capsules Market Report is Segmented by Type (Gelatin Empty Capsules and Non-Gelatin Empty Capsules), by End User (Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical and Other End Users), by Distribution Channel (Direct Sales, Wholesalers, Online Platforms, Others) and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and South America). The Report Offers the Value (USD) for the Above Segments.

Halal Empty Capsule Market Outlook

The global halal empty capsule market size was valued at approximately USD 1.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 3.2 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% during the forecast period. The rise in consumer demand for ethically sourced and manufactured pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products is a key growth factor driving this market. As the global Muslim population continues to increase, so does the demand for halal-certified products, propelling market growth significantly.

One of the primary growth factors for the halal empty capsule market is the increasing awareness and preference for halal-certified products among consumers worldwide. Halal certification guarantees that products are manufactured in accordance with Islamic law, which is not only important for Muslim consumers but also appeals to non-Muslims who are concerned about ethical production practices. The growing demand for halal pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals is largely driven by this awareness, alongside an increasing global Muslim population that is expected to reach 2.2 billion by 2030. This demographic shift is significantly boosting demand for halal-certified products, including empty capsules used in various applications.

Moreover, the trend of consumer health and wellness is translating into a booming nutraceutical market, where halal empty capsules are increasingly being utilized. As more consumers focus on the benefits of functional foods and dietary supplements, the nutraceutical industry is set to expand, particularly in regions with substantial Muslim populations. The demand for halal nutraceutical products is further bolstered by the perception that they are cleaner, safer, and more ethically produced, appealing to health-conscious consumers. In addition, the shift towards vegetarian and vegan lifestyles has driven the need for non-gelatin halal capsules, further expanding market opportunities.

The advancement in capsule technology is also contributing to market growth. Innovations in capsule manufacturing, such as the development of plant-based and chemically modified capsules, offer new avenues for halal certification. These advancements not only cater to the halal segment but also address broader consumer demands for non-animal-based and allergen-free products. Such innovations are crucial in enabling manufacturers to maintain competitive advantages in a rapidly evolving market landscape, ensuring compliance with diverse consumer needs while adhering to halal standards.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to dominate the halal empty capsule market throughout the forecast period, driven by a large Muslim population and significant growth in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, which have substantial Muslim demographics, are key markets for halal products. With government support and stringent regulations promoting halal certification, the region is likely to maintain its leadership in the market. Additionally, North America and Europe are witnessing an increase in demand for halal products due to growing multicultural populations and heightened awareness of ethical consumption practices.

Product Type Analysis

The halal empty capsule market is divided into two main product types: gelatin capsules and non-gelatin capsules. Gelatin capsules have traditionally dominated the market due to their cost-effectiveness and widespread availability. They are derived from animal by-products such as bones and connective tissues, which makes obtaining halal certification crucial to ensure compliance with Islamic dietary laws. The process of ensuring halal certification for gelatin capsules involves thorough scrutiny of the entire supply chain, from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing practices, which guarantees adherence to halal principles.

Despite the dominance of gelatin capsules, non-gelatin capsules are witnessing significant growth due to increasing consumer demand for vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Non-gelatin capsules, often made from plant-based materials such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), are gaining popularity as they align with both halal and vegan dietary restrictions. This segment is expanding rapidly as manufacturers adopt innovative solutions to cater to diverse consumer requirements, focusing on sustainable and ethical production methods that appeal to a broader audience beyond just the Muslim population.

Advancements in the production of non-gelatin capsules have led

Europe's Empty Capsules Market accounted for a share of more than 32% of the global revenue due to several variables.

The global empty capsules market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.40% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The burgeoning pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries are significantly increasing demand for efficient and convenient drug delivery systems, making empty capsules a vital component in their production processes. Furthermore, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases globally necessitates increased medication consumption, further bolstering market growth. Technological advancements leading to the development of novel capsule formulations, such as those with improved bioavailability or targeted release mechanisms (delayed-release, sustained-release), are also contributing factors. The growing consumer preference for convenient and easy-to-swallow dosage forms, particularly within the dietary supplement segment, adds another layer to the market's upward trajectory. While regulatory hurdles and fluctuations in raw material prices could pose some challenges, the overall market outlook remains positive, driven by strong underlying growth factors. Segmentation analysis reveals that gelatin capsules currently dominate the product type segment, owing to their established use and cost-effectiveness. However, the non-gelatin segment, driven by increasing demand for vegetarian and halal-certified options, is witnessing significant growth. In terms of functionality, immediate-release capsules maintain a sizable market share, though sustained-release and delayed-release capsules are experiencing rapid growth fueled by their advantages in drug delivery and therapeutic efficacy. Geographically, North America and Europe currently hold substantial market share, reflecting their established pharmaceutical industries. However, the Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and India, exhibits significant growth potential due to expanding healthcare infrastructure and rising disposable incomes. Competitive landscape analysis shows the market is moderately consolidated, with key players like ACG Worldwide, Capsugel (Lonza Group), and Qualicaps leading the way through strategic innovations and global expansions. The market is expected to see further consolidation as companies focus on R&D and partnerships to meet evolving market demands. Recent developments include: In March 2021, CapsCanada, a Lyfe Group company, announced the launch of a new liquid-filled hard capsule manufacturing service., In August 2020, Dr. Reddy Laboratories received the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) approval for the launch of generic Penicillamine capsules, used for the treatment of Wilson's disease and cystinuria, in the US market., In April 2020, Qualicaps Europe expanded its presence in the Middle-East and Africa after signing agency and distribution partnership agreements with a number of market-leading companies in the region.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Pharmaceutical Applications, Technological Advancements in Empty Capsules; Growing Geriatric Population. Potential restraints include: Increasing Pharmaceutical Applications, Technological Advancements in Empty Capsules; Growing Geriatric Population. Notable trends are: The Cardiovascular Therapy Drugs Segment is Expected to Witness a Healthy CAGR Over the Forecast Period.

The value of the U.S. market for pharmaceutical empty capsules is expected to reach around 1.2 billion U.S. dollars by 2032. That would be twice the market value in 2021 when it stood at around 600 million U.S. dollars. Capsules are essential for the drug delivery of many medicines and are the second most used dosage form after tablets. There are two kinds of capsules broadly available: soft gelatin capsules and hard gelatin capsules.

The Enteric Empty Capsules Market size will exceed a valuation of USD 5.21 billion by 2032, to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% during the forecast period.

The value of the global market for pharmaceutical empty capsules is expected to reach around ************ U.S. dollars by 2032. That would be twice the market value in 2021 when it stood at around *********** U.S. dollars. Capsules are essential for the drug delivery of many medicines and are the second most used dosage form after tablets. There are *** kinds of capsules broadly available: soft gelatin capsules and hard gelatin capsules.