Vials Market Size, Share, and Industry Analysis By Material (Plastic and Glass), By Capacity (Below 10 ml, 11-50 ml, 51-100 ml, and Above 100 ml), By Type (Amber Vial and Clear Vial), By Application (Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals, and Others), and Regional Forecast till 2032

The global vials market is expanding owing to the rising production of vaccines, biologics, and injectable drugs. The industry covers small glass or plastic containers commonly used to store liquids, powders, or small objects. Vials are typically used in various industries, particularly pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare, and laboratories, for packaging and safely storing sensitive products such as drugs, vaccines, diagnostic reagents, and samples.

• According to a study published by the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations, the European Commission’s Circular Economy Action Plan, the Roadmap, and the European Green Deal have established direction for the future approach to a sustainable business model based on circularity.

Vials Market Driver

Vaccine Development and Mass Immunization Campaigns to Drive Industry Expansion

The development and widespread distribution of vaccines, particularly in response to global health crises such as COVID-19, have significantly increased the demand for vials. Ongoing vaccination campaigns for various diseases are expected to keep this trend steady. The increasing production of vaccines, injectable drugs, and biologics is driving the demand for vials. Many drugs, especially biologics, require specialized vials to ensure safety, stability, and proper dosage.

• According to the International Federation Of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations, the biopharmaceutical industry has consistently invested the most in R&D, even in times of economic turmoil and financial crisis. The research-based biopharmaceutical industry is estimated to have spent USD 198 billion globally on biopharmaceutical R&D in 2020.

Vials Market Restraint

Recyclability and Stringent Regulatory Requirements May Hinder the Market Growth

Many vials, particularly those made of plastic, are difficult to recycle due to the presence of mixed materials or contamination with pharmaceutical products. Glass vials, while more recyclable than plastic, can be energy-intensive to recycle and transport due to their weight. Vial packaging, particularly for pharmaceuticals, is subject to stringent regulations regarding sterility, materials, and safety. Meeting diverse international regulations, such as those from the FDA (U.S.), EMA (Europe), and other national bodies, adds complexity and cost to the manufacturing process.

• According to an article published by European Pharmaceutical Review, the pharmaceutical industry is responsible for 300 million tonnes of plastic waste each year, of which 50% is single-use.

Vials Market Opportunity

Expansion of Healthcare Infrastructure in Emerging Markets to Open New Growth Avenues

The rapid growth of healthcare infrastructure in emerging markets, especially in Asia Pacific, Latin America, and parts of Africa, presents a major opportunity for the vials market. As access to healthcare services improves, the demand for vials for vaccines, biologics, and other drugs increases.

Segmentation

Key Insights

The report covers the following key insights:

• Recent Advancements in the Global Vials Market
• Key Industry Trends
• Regulatory Landscape for Global Vials Market
• Key Industry Developments (Mergers, Acquisitions, and Partnerships)
• Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

Analysis by Material

Based on material, the market is divided into plastic and glass.

The glass segment leads the global vials market. Glass is chemically inert, meaning it does not react with most pharmaceuticals or biological agents. This is crucial in ensuring that the contents of the vial remain stable, uncontaminated, and safe for administration. Unlike some plastics, glass does not leach chemicals into the product, maintaining the purity and efficacy of the drug or vaccine inside.

Analysis by Capacity

By capacity, the market is subdivided into below 10 ml, 11-50 ml, 51-100 ml, and above 100 ml.

The 11-50 ml capacity segment is the leading segment in the global vials market. Vials with 11-50 ml capacity are highly versatile and used for a wide range of pharmaceutical and medical applications. This includes the packaging of vaccines, biologics, injectable drugs, and other liquid formulations that require precise dosing. They are suitable for both single-dose and multiple-dose medications, making them ideal for various therapeutic uses.

Analysis by Type

Based on type, the market is fragmented into amber vial and clear vial.

The clear vials segment leads the global vials market. Clear vials allow for easy and immediate visual inspection of the contents, which is crucial in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The vials enable healthcare professionals and consumers to assess the color, clarity, and consistency of liquid medications, vaccines, and other injectable products.

Analysis by Application

On the basis of application, the market is subdivided into healthcare & pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and others.

The healthcare & pharmaceuticals segment leads the global vials market. Vials are a critical component in packaging injectable drugs, vaccines, and other liquid medications. Their ability to maintain the sterility, stability, and shelf life of pharmaceutical products makes them indispensable in the healthcare sector. Both single-dose and multi-dose vials are widely used for various formulations such as vaccines, biologics, and insulin.

Regional Analysis

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Based on region, the market has been studied across North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa.

North America holds the largest share of the global vials market, led by the U.S. and Canada. The region is characterized by its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high pharmaceutical production rates, and significant R&D investments.

Europe is the second-largest market based on the demand for vials. Europe is a major player in the global vials market, with countries such as Germany, France, and the U.K. being significant contributors. The region is known for its strong pharmaceutical manufacturing base and high regulatory standards.

The Asia Pacific region is the fastest-growing market for vials, driven by rapid pharmaceutical industry expansion, increasing healthcare investments, and rising demand for injectable drugs.

Key Players Covered

The global vials market is fragmented, with the presence of a large number of group and standalone providers.

The report includes the profiles of the following key players:

• Gerresheimer AG (Germany)
• Berry Global Inc. (U.S.)
• SCHOTT AG (Germany)
• West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (U.S.)
• Amcor plc (Switzerland)
• Stoelzle Glass Group (Austria)
• Origin Pharma Packaging (U.K.)
• SGD Pharma (France)
• Nipro Corporation (Japan)
• Stevanato Group (Italy)

Key Industry Developments

• In January 2024, SCHOTT Pharma introduced glass vials optimized for deep-cold storage of drugs. These life-saving vaccines, such as gene therapy and mRNA medications, must be frozen and transported at temperatures down to -80°C.
• In March 2021, Europe-based Stoelzle Glass Group acquired the Monaca, Pennsylvania, glass factory from Anchor Hocking Glass Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Oneida Group.