Empty Capsules Market Companies and Value Chain Analysis
- Capsugel (Lonza Group)
- Aenova Group
- Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Qualicaps
- Pharmaplast
- Sunil Healthcare Ltd.
- Suheung Co., Ltd.
- The Capsugel Company
- Natural Capsules Ltd.
- Lonza Group Ltd.
- Colorcon, Inc.
- Huaao Group
- HealthCaps India Ltd.
- Biocaps Laboratories
- Suheung Co., Ltd.
- CapsCanada
- Gujarat Capsules Ltd.
- Axiom Capsule Pvt Ltd.
- Jangsu Suheung Co., Ltd.
- Kuwait Capsules Manufacturing Company
Market Growth
The global empty capsules market size marked US$ 3.1 billion in 2024 and is forecast to experience consistent growth, reaching US$ 3.27 billion in 2025 and US$ 5.33 billion by 2034 at a CAGR of 5.56%.
What are the Key trends in the Empty Capsules Market in 2024?
Expansion in Emerging Markets: Rising healthcare infrastructure and pharmaceutical production in regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America are creating new market opportunities for capsule manufacturers.
- In December 2024, Lonza expanded its production capabilities by adding new hard-gel capsule lines at its facilities in Rewari and Suzhou, significantly increasing its yearly output to better cater to growing regional market needs.
Growth of Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements: Health-conscious consumers are increasingly opting for vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements, boosting the adoption of capsules in the nutraceutical segment.
- In May 2024, Roquette introduced LYCAGEL® Flex, a hydroxypropyl pea starch premix for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical softgel capsules. This innovative, plasticizer-free excipient allows formulators to optimize plasticizer use, meeting diverse manufacturing and consumer needs. It enhances the quality, stability, and performance of plant-based softgels, setting new standards in softgel production.
Empty Capsules Market Value Chain Analysis
Regulatory Approvals
Regulatory approvals are essential for empty capsules, especially hard gelatin ones, to ensure safety and effectiveness. This process includes strict quality testing, meeting pharmacopeial standards, and complying with guidelines from authorities such as the FDA and EMA.
Key players: Lonza, Qualicaps, Roxlor, CapsCanada
Formulation
The empty capsules are made from gelatin, HPMC, or starch, with gelatin being most common and HPMC/starch serving as vegetarian alternatives.
Key players: Bright Pharma Caps Inc., Medi-Caps, ACG
Packaging
Empty gelatin capsules are packed in polythene bags, which are then placed in strong double-layered cartons lined with thermocol on all sides to provide cushioning and temperature protection.
Key players: HealthCaps India Ltd, Suheung Co., Ltd, Medi-Caps Ltd.
Latest Announcement by Industry Leaders
In May 2024, Suheung (South Korea) launched the EMBOCAPS® AP60, a delayed-release capsule providing over 60 minutes of acid protection without shellacs, phthalates, or coatings. The capsule uses a patented hypromellose and pectin blend to protect sensitive ingredients like probiotics. Suheung’s CEO, Joo Hwan Yang, highlighted the company’s focus on innovation and customer support, stating that the new Alpha plant boosts production capacity and reinforces their commitment to quality and advanced capsule solutions.
Recent Developments in the Empty Capsules Market
- In September 2024, Evonik introduced EUDRACAP® pre-locked capsules for pharmaceuticals, suitable for powders, pellets, and granules. Coated with EUDRAGIT®, they provide targeted pH release and up to four hours of acid resistance, safeguarding sensitive ingredients from heat, moisture, and stomach acids. Designed for standard filling systems, these capsules enhance absorption, prevent early dissolution, and support regulatory compliance, offering pharmaceutical companies a reliable solution for precise and stable drug delivery.
- In March 2024, Lonza announced it would acquire Genentech’s biologics manufacturing site in California from Roche for over USD 1 billion. The acquisition aims to strengthen Lonza’s biologics production capacity, making it one of the world’s largest sites. The company plans to invest approximately USD 600 million to upgrade the facility, enhancing its to support next-generation mammalian biologics therapies and meet growing global demand.
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