Printed Electronics Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Technology (Inkjet Printing, Screen Printing, Gravure Printing, Flexographic Printing, and Others), By Material (Ink and Substrate), By Application (Displays, Photovoltaic, Lighting, RFID, and Others), By End-user (Healthcare, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Transportation, Consumer Electronics, Construction & Architecture, Retail & Packaging, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024 – 2032

The global printed electronics market size was valued at USD 12.56 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow from USD 14.89 billion in 2024 to USD 75.05 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 22.4% during the forecast period.

Printed electronics is a set of printing methods used to generate electronic devices by printing on a diversity of substrates, such as paper, plastics, or even fabric. It involves the deposition of conductive, semiconductive, or insulating inks onto these substrates to form functional electronic components, such as transistors, capacitors, and sensors. This technology enables the production of flexible, lightweight, and potentially low-cost electronic devices, with applications ranging from RFID tags and flexible displays to sensors and smart packaging.

It has a comprehensive range of applications in numerous industries, including electronics, consumer goods, media, and healthcare due to its potential benefits, such as thickness, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. For instance,

• Nissha GSI, a photography printing firm, offers Transdermal Medical Patch, a wearable electrical device that uses sensors and conductive silver inks to help provide medical information to patients. The usages for the patch range from glucose observation to temperature reading.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a slightly significant impact on the market growth. The initial strict lockdowns forced by governments of several nations, combined with the strict travel restrictions, disrupted the day-to-day operations of key industries, such as automotive, consumer electronics, and others. These disruptions led to supply chain challenges, hindering the availability of raw materials and delaying distribution and shipments. However, the market demonstrated resilience and adapted quickly to the challenges caused by the pandemic.

IMPACT OF GENERATIVE AI

Leveraging Generative AI Capabilities within Printed Electronics to Improve Product Demand

The impact of Gen-AI in the printed electronics market is poised to be significant, driving innovation and efficiency across various stages of design, manufacturing, and material development. AI can automatically generate and optimize the layout of electronic circuits for printed devices, ensuring they are compact, efficient, and functional.

Generative AI helps designers explore multiple design alternatives by using machine learning to predict the most efficient or cost-effective configuration based on certain parameters (e.g., energy consumption performance).

Companies engaged in designing printed RFID tags might use AI to optimize the antenna design for better signal efficiency while reducing material usage, improving both cost and performance.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Trends

Smart Packaging Over Traditional Packaging in Printed Electronics to Emerge As Key Trend 

Smart packaging is achieving importance globally and is expected to quickly change traditional packaging by providing quality control and shipment tracking of packaged products. Smart packaging frequently uses near-field communication (NFC) and radiofrequency identification (RFID) technologies to unite manufacturers with their customers and confirm the authenticity of diverse products, including wines and perfumes.

Rewritable chips are also being used as labels for smart packaging and are expected to replace the traditional barcode labeling system. Smart packaging uses flexible electronics, which are thin, lightweight, efficient, and hard. Packaging integrated with electronics enables advanced communication channels between the digital and real worlds. This is projected to aid companies in focusing on distinct clients and improving their customer service delivery, driving market growth.

Market Drivers

Increasing Demand of IoT in Printed Electronics among Several Applications to Boost the Market Growth 

The increasing usage of IoT is opening up new growth opportunities for printed electronics applications across various sectors. Furthermore, the increasing demand for printed RFID devices and upgraded OLED displays is paving the way for enhanced use of the technology due to its high efficiency, low power consumption, and low production cost. Printed electronics has become a major research area, with continuous aimed at improving existing capabilities and exploring advanced applications across various fields.

Several technical developments and benchmarking improvements have resulted from enhanced R&D investments by organizations, corporations, and research groups over the past few decades. With billions of devices expected to connect to the IoT ecosystem, the demand for innovative, cost-efficient electronic solutions is surging. Many governments are investing in IoT and smart city projects, indirectly boosting the adoption of printed electronics. Innovations in conductive inks, organic semiconductors, and flexible substrates are making printed electronics more viable for IoT applications. For instance,

• Europe’s Horizon 2020 Program, investing in flexible printed electronics.


• Smart City Projects in Asia, driving adoption of IoT-enabled sensors and devices.

Therefore, the seamless integration of printed electronics in IoT devices enables new possibilities across industries, driving both innovation and market growth. This convergence is transforming industries and creating opportunities for smart, connected solutions.

Market Restraint

Higher Investment in New Technologies of Printed Electronics to Hinder Market Expansion

When it comes to innovative technologies, cost reduction is commonly a key driver of R&D efforts. However, the price of innovative materials and equipment for printed electronic research is very high. Industrialists need to focus on cost reduction and creating value through lightweight, flexible, thinner, and robust products. Decisions regarding savings in certain technologies will be guided by their measurable properties. The development of new technologies also requires trained personnel, precision machinery, and advanced investment and can slow down the printed electronics market growth.

Furthermore, printed electronics often involve long development cycles and market validation periods before commercialization. Due to these uncertainties, investors may hesitate to fund projects around ROI timelines. For instance,

• A study by IDTechEx states that it can take 5-7 years for new printed electronics technology to transition from R&D to mass production, with additional time to achieve profitability.

Market Opportunities

Expanding Applications of Printed Electronics in the Healthcare Sector to Drive Market Development

The healthcare sector is one of the most promising areas for the growth of printed electronics, as the technology offers the creation of flexible, cost-effective, and innovative solutions for medical devices, monitoring systems, and diagnostics. The growth in this sector is driven by the need for more personalized, remote, and efficient healthcare.

Printed electronics enable the development of flexible biosensors that can be integrated into wearables for continuous health monitoring. These sensors can track vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, glucose levels, and temperature without the need for invasive procedures. For instance,

• Chronic Disease Management: Devices designed for managing conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disorders.


• Remote Monitoring: Wearables devices that transmit health data to healthcare providers in real-time, improving patient outcomes.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Technology

Increasing Production of Screen Printing in Electronic Applications Propelled Screen Printing Segment Growth

On the basis of technology, the market is categorized into inkjet printing, screen printing, gravure printing, flexographic printing, and others.

The screen printing segment held the largest market share in 2023. This printing is widely used in printed electronics for several reasons. It offers versatility in printing on various substrates, including flexibility and rigid materials, making it suitable for a range of applications. Additionally, screen-printing technology uses a mesh to hand over ink onto a substrate, resulting in high-quality and resilient outputs, thereby promoting segment growth.

The inkjet printing segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This printing offers digital control over the deposition process, enabling rapid prototyping and customization. Furthermore, it is a non-contact printing method, minimizing substrate damage and enabling printing on delicate or flexible materials. This printing has found applications in various fields, such as RFID tags, flexible displays, sensors, and even organic photovoltaics, driving its increased adoption in the industry, boosting the growth of the segment.

By Material

Ink Segment Lead due to Rising Adoption of Inks

On the basis of the material, the market is categorized into ink and substrate.

The ink segment dominates the market with the maximum global printed electronics market share and is expected to continue its dominance during the forecast period. The adoption of ink is fundamental to the entire process, with conductive, semiconductive, and insulating inks utilized to create electronic components and circuits directly onto substrates. These inks are specially formulated to be compatible with printing techniques, such as screen printing, inkjet printing, and flexography. The extensive application of printed electronics technology has enabled the considerable adoption of inks in various applications across different industrial sectors. Thus, these factors play a vital role in driving the growth of the segment.

In addition, the adoption of substrates has improved the performance and reliability of printed electronic devices, making them more attractive for various applications. Substrates offer cost advantages compared to traditional semiconductor materials such as silicon, making printed electronics a more economical choice for certain applications, especially those requiring large-area production.

By Application

Growing Displays Applications Due to their Flexibility Boosted Displays Segment Growth

On the basis of the application, the market is categorized into displays, photovoltaic, lighting, RFID, and others.

The displays segment held the largest market share in 2023 and is anticipated to maintain its dominance over the forecast period. The adoption of display applications in printed electronics is gaining traction due to their flexibility, low-cost manufacturing, and potential for large-scale production. Printed displays offer opportunities for innovative form factors and applications, ranging from wearable devices to IoT devices and beyond. Moreover, this technology is experiencing a steady adoption in other devices segments, including sensors, printed batteries, medical & healthcare, and media.

The RFID segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Printed RFID tags offer benefits, such as low-cost manufacturing, flexibility, and integration into a variety of surfaces and materials. These tags are used in various applications, including inventory management, supply chain tracking, smart packaging, and asset tracking. The segment is perceiving prominent traction across the globe due to the growing application of RFID in the rapidly growing packaging industry, further boosting segment growth.

By End-user

To know how our report can help streamline your business, Speak to Analyst

Rising Adoption of Electronic Sensors in the Automotive & Transportation Sector Boosted Segment Growth

On the basis of the end-user, the market is categorized into healthcare, aerospace & defense, automotive & transportation, consumer electronics, construction & architecture, retail & packaging, and others.

The automotive & transportation segment held the largest market share in 2023. Printed electronics enable the production of lightweight, flexible, and customizable components, making them ideal for various applications within vehicles. These are also used in sensor technology for automotive applications, such as pressure sensors for tire pressure monitoring systems and occupancy sensors for airbag systems. These sensors can be printed directly onto surfaces, enabling more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing processes.

The consumer electronics segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Printed electronics play a pivotal role in the development of wearable electronics, including smart clothing, fitness trackers, and healthcare monitoring devices. Innovations in wearable electronics leverage the flexibility and lightweight nature of printed electronics, contributing to advancements in consumer electronics and lifestyle technologies.

PRINTED ELECTRONICS MARKET REGIONAL OUTLOOK

Asia Pacific

To get more information on the regional analysis of this market, Request a Free sample

Asia Pacific holds the largest share of the market. Countries, such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan are leading the way in the research, development, and manufacturing of printed electronic components and devices. The region’s strong presence in electronics manufacturing, coupled with its focus on innovation and technology, has propelled the region to the forefront of printed electronics adoption. Additionally, government initiatives across the region which are gaining momentum due to their potential to revolutionize various sectors, from healthcare to transportation, are key drivers of market growth in this region.

Request a Free sample to learn more about this report.

The semiconductor market is experiencing increased demand, prompting Asia Pacific countries to intensify their efforts in semiconductor research and development. For instance, during the first half of 2024, China invested a substantial USD 24.73 billion in the acquisition of chip manufacturing machinery, as per SEMI (Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International) data.

Europe

Europe is anticipated to exhibit second-highest growth, following Asia Pacific, over the forecast period. The region has significant growth in sectors, such as automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics, where printed electronics offer advantages, such as lightweight, flexible, and cost-effective solutions. Several European countries in the region, including Germany, the U.K., France, and Finland, are at the forefront of research, development, and commercialization in printed electronics, boosting market growth.

North America

North America is anticipated to exhibit steady growth over the forecast period. This is due to the strong presence of research and development institutions and robust manufacturing infrastructure, which has contributed to the advancement and adoption of printed electronic technologies. In addition, recent investments in the semiconductor sector in the U.S., supported by government incentives outlined in the CHIPS Act of 2022, reached nearly USD 450 billion across 25 states, as reported by the Semiconductor Industry Association. These incentives are designed to enhance the stability of the semiconductor supply chain within the country. It is anticipated that the manufacturing capacity of the industry in the U.S. will triple by the year 2032, further promoting market growth.

South America

South America is showing substantial growth in this market due to its growing interest in sustainable and low-cost technologies. These electronics offer opportunities for environmentally friendly production processes and materials, as well as cost-effective solutions for local industries. Moreover, partnerships and collaborations with international organizations and companies are accelerating the adoption of these technologies in the region.

Middle East and Africa

The Middle East & Africa (MEA) market is set to witness prominent growth over the forecast period. The momentum for digital adoption is increasing as governments in Middle Eastern countries implement various national initiatives. For example, Saudi Arabia invested significantly in establishing local semiconductor manufacturing capabilities as part of its Vision 2030 initiative. Presently, Taiwan holds the top position with 46% of the global semiconductor foundry capacity, followed by China, South Korea, the U.S., and Japan.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Leading Companies Emphasize Collaborations to Boost Their Market Presence

Major participants in the market are offering customized solutions for specific industries to boost their global presence. They are strategically forming collaborations and procuring local companies to strengthen their positions in different regions. Key players are focused on creating real marketing approaches and offering novel solutions to maintain and increase their market shares. Hence, surging adoption of printed electronics applications is paving the way for market players.

Major Players in the Printed Electronics Market

To know how our report can help streamline your business, Speak to Analyst

The global printed electronics market is characterized by healthy competition, with the top 3 players accounting for around 56% - 60% of the market share. They are tactically making collaborations and procuring local companies to form strong positions in different regions. Additionally, key players are also focused on creating real marketing approaches and offering novel solutions to maintain and increase their market shares

List of Companies Studied

• Molex, LLC (U.S.)


• Agfa-Gevaert Group (Belgium)


• Quad Industries (Belgium)


• DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (U.S.)


• Nissha Co., Ltd. (Japan)


• BASF (Germany)


• NovaCentrix (U.S.)


• E Ink Holdings Inc. (Taiwan)


• Panasonic Corporation (Japan)


• Enfucell Oy (Finland)


• SonoPlot, Inc. (U.S.)


• Linepro Controls Pvt Ltd. (India)


• ALMAX (U.S.)


• CAPLINQ Corporation (Netherlands)


• Merck KGaA (Germany)


• Mekoprint (Denmark)


• Kuen Yuh Machinery Engineering Co., Ltd. (Taiwan)


• Saralon GmbH (Germany)


• Cicor Group (Switzerland)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• October 2024: BASF introduced two innovative product variants within its polyamide value chain in Europe. The launch of products addresses the growing demand in the industry and helps clients achieve their sustainability objectives.


• August 2024: Molex, an electronic innovator, announced the Percept Current Sensors to meet the increasing demand for extremely accurate busbar current sensing results in industrial and automotive applications. The launch of sensors saves clients valuable space and optimizes product performance by decreasing major design and manufacturing complications and costs.


• September 2024: Panasonic Corporation declared its return to the U.S. market with an innovative line-up of mini-LED TVs and OLED displays, integrated Fire TV. This new line-up provides OLED and Mini LED displays with Fire TV built-in, delivering an immersive Fire TV ambient understanding.


• January 2024: Agfa partnered with EFI Forge to incorporate high-end hybrid inkjet printers into its suite of solutions. The collaboration provides clients with some of the most innovative and comprehensive selections available.


• November 2023: DuPont partnered with STMicroelectronics to improve an innovative smart wearable device concept for observing biosignals. The collaboration through the healthcare systems, from technology creators and material providers to device fabricators and OEMs, improves more patient-centric solutions that lead to better patient outcomes.

INVESTMENT ANALYSIS AND OPPORTUNITIES

The demand for printed electronics is huge, spanning sectors from automotive to healthcare, and they constitute one of the most cutting-edge trends in research and development funding initiatives. Its capability to lower expenses, alongside its adaptability and reduced environmental effects, makes it a appealing choice for financing technological ventures. European funding will play a crucial role in the progress of this technology in the years ahead.

• In December 2024, Horizon Microtechnologies, a company based in Germany focused on micro 3D printing, had obtained funding through the European Space Agency’s (ESA) SPARK program, which will support the advancement of its cutting-edge 3D printing and metallization technologies to satisfy the stringent requirements of space applications.


• In June 2024, NextFlex, the Manufacturing Innovation Institute for Flexible Hybrid Electronics (FHE) in the U.S., revealed a funding amount of USD 5.3 million under its Project Call 9.0. The project aimed to enhance the development and use of FHE across the U.S. advanced manufacturing industry.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market and focuses on key aspects such as leading companies, product/service types, and leading applications of the product. Besides, the report offers insights into the market trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the factors above, the report encompasses several factors that contributed to the growth of the market in recent years.

To gain extensive insights into the market, Request for Customization

REPORT SCOPE & SEGMENTATION