Nutraceuticals is projected to drive the growth of the global empty capsule market at a CAGR of 6.68% during the forecast period of 2024–2032

Market Research Future (MRFR) has published a cooked research report on the “global empty capsule market” that contains the information from 2019 to 2032. 

The global empty capsule market is projected to register a CAGR of 6.68% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2032.

MRFR recognizes the following companies as the key players in the global empty capsule market are Lonza (Switzerland), CapsCanada (Canada), Roxlor (US), Goerlich Pharma GmbH (Germany), Hunan Er-Kang Pharmaceutical Ltd. (China), Shanxi Guangsheng Medicinal Capsule Co., Ltd (China), Bright Pharma Caps Inc (US), ACG (India), Sunil Healthcare Limited (India), and Qualicaps (Japan).

Empty capsule Market Latest Highlights

The global empty capsule market is accounted to register a CAGR of 6.68% during the forecast period and is estimated to reach USD 33.99 billion by 2032.

The global empty capsules market is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and dietary supplement industries. The pharmaceutical sector's expansion, fueled by technological innovations, rising healthcare needs, and a focus on precision medicine, is increasing the demand for efficient encapsulation solutions. At the same time, the growing interest in preventive healthcare and wellness has spurred the use of empty capsules in nutraceuticals, with plant-based and vegetarian capsules becoming increasingly popular due to consumer demand for sustainable and ethical products. Innovations in capsule technology, such as improved materials and manufacturing processes, are enhancing product quality and efficiency, further supporting market growth. However, challenges related to dietary restrictions and cultural preferences for certain capsule types require manufacturers to adapt and offer diverse options, including plant-based alternatives, to meet evolving consumer demands.

Segment Analysis

The global empty capsule market has been segmented based on type, functionality, physical characteristics, form, appearance and application.  

The global empty capsule market is divided into two segments: gelatin capsules and vegetarian capsules. Gelatin capsules dominated the market in 2023, providing consumers with a palatable, digestible, and cost-effective option. Gelatin capsules are typically made from porcine or bovine gelatin, with each providing distinct benefits in terms of taste, odor masking, and formulation flexibility. On the other hand, the vegetarian capsules segment is expanding at a rapid pace, owing to rising consumer demand for plant-based alternatives. These capsules are primarily made from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and pullulan, which provide benefits such as ease of digestion, increased bioavailability, and the absence of preservatives, making them suitable for consumers with dietary restrictions.

The market is divided into two types of capsules based on their functionality: fast-release and slow-release. The fast-release segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023 and is expected to expand rapidly during the forecast period. These capsules are designed to provide immediate medication release, making them ideal for pain relief and allergy treatments. Slow-release capsules, including those based on HPMC, are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to protect sensitive ingredients while providing controlled release, particularly in the treatment of conditions such as esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux.

Physical characteristics are segmented into halal and non-halal capsules. The halal segment, which follows dietary guidelines, had the largest market share in 2023 and is expected to grow further due to rising demand in Muslim-majority regions. Non-halal capsules, made from bovine gelatin or other non-compliant materials, are still popular due to their widespread availability and low cost.

The empty capsule market is divided into two types: hard capsules and soft capsules. The soft capsules segment dominated the market in 2023 and is expected to continue its rapid growth because they provide precise dosing, ease of administration, and protection for sensitive ingredients. Hard capsules, on the other hand, are primarily used for powders, granules, and liquid-filled formulations and are valued for their adaptability in drug delivery systems.

The global market is divided into two categories based on appearance: transparent and opaque capsules. Transparent capsules, which enable product visibility and quality control, had the largest market share in 2023. However, opaque capsules are gaining popularity due to their ability to protect light-sensitive ingredients and mask unpleasant odors, making them useful in a variety of applications.

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Regional Analysis

The global empty capsule market, based on region, has been divided into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World. North America further includes US, Canada, and Mexico. Europe includes countries namely Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, and the Rest of Europe. The Global empty capsule market in Asia-Pacific has been segmented into China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the Rest of Asia-Pacific. Moreover, the Rest of the World comprises of Middle East & Africa, and South America.

North America market’s growth is driven by the rising demand for drug delivery solutions and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Advancements in capsule production technologies and new materials have further supported this growth. For instance, CapsCanada’s introduction of a liquid-filled hard capsule manufacturing service in 2021 highlights the industry’s focus on innovative drug delivery solutions. As the region shifts towards personalized medicine and patient-centric approaches, the demand for empty capsules is expected to continue growing, with significant opportunities for manufacturers in the evolving healthcare landscape. 

Growth in the Europe region is fueled by increasing pharmaceutical and nutraceutical activities, as well as a growing aging population. Consumer preferences for vegetarian and vegan formulations have led to a rise in the use of plant-based and HPMC capsules. Companies like Lonza are responding to evolving consumer needs, offering new titanium dioxide-free capsules. Technological advancements, including ongoing R&D, are expected to drive market expansion, enhancing the quality and functionality of capsules in the European pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

Asia-Pacific region is experiencing strong growth, driven by the increasing demand for capsules in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors. The aging population, particularly in countries like Japan and China, is fueling the need for medications, while rising consumer awareness of natural products is boosting demand for dietary supplements. Moreover, innovations such as plant-based capsules and advancements in manufacturing technologies are creating new opportunities for growth, making Asia-Pacific one of the most promising regions for empty capsule market expansion.

ROW market growth is driven by the rising demand for capsules in regions like the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, particularly in response to the increasing popularity of HPMC capsules. In Africa, the growing pharmaceutical industry and demand for dietary supplements are key drivers. Additionally, favorable government regulations and increasing healthcare investments are supporting the expansion of the empty capsules market. As these regions continue to develop, the market is expected to see a surge in demand, driven by the expanding pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.

Key Findings of the Study

• The global empty capsule market is expected to reach USD 33.99 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 6.68% during the forecast period.


• The Europe region held the second largest market share of the global market in 2023 and is the fastest-growing region, owing to the presence of huge number of start-ups that are heavily involved in forming strategic alliances.


• Based on type, the gelatin capsules segment held the largest market with a market share of 81.82% in 2023 and needleless system is the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period.


• Lonza (Switzerland), CapsCanada (Canada), Roxlor (US), Goerlich Pharma GmbH (Germany), Hunan Er-Kang Pharmaceutical Ltd. (China), Shanxi Guangsheng Medicinal Capsule Co., Ltd (China), Bright Pharma Caps Inc (US), ACG (India), Sunil Healthcare Limited (India), and Qualicaps (Japan) are the key players in the market.