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APAC Clinical Trials Market to Reach USD 26.96 Bn by 2034

APAC Clinical Trials Market Gains Edge with Oncology Focus

Market insights predict the APAC clinical trials industry will increase from USD 10.88 billion in 2024 to USD 26.96 billion by 2034, achieving a CAGR of 9.50%. The market is growing due to the increasing demand for new and effective therapies and rising R&D investments. In the Asia Pacific region, rapid growth is driven by lower operational costs, a large patient population, and supportive government policies, making it a preferred hub for clinical trials.

Category: Healthcare Services Insight Code: 6306 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

APAC Clinical Trials Market Size, Key Players with Growth and Insights

The APAC clinical trials market size was estimated at US$ 10.88 billion in 2024, projected to increase to US$ 11.92 billion in 2025 and reach US$ 26.96 billion by 2034, showing a healthy CAGR of 9.50% across the forecast years.

APAC Clinical Trials Market Size 2024 to 2034

The APAC clinical trials market is expanding rapidly due to growing investment in life sciences research, increasing outsourcing of trials from Western countries, and supportive government policies. China and India are emerging as key hubs, driven by large, diverse patient populations and skilled medical professionals. Rising prevalence of chronic diseases and demand for innovative therapies further boost trial activities, positioning the region as a critical contributor to the global clinical research landscape.

Key Takeaways

  • APAC clinical trials sector pushed the market to USD 10.88 billion by 2024.
  • Long-term projections show USD 26.96 billion valuation by 2034.
  • Growth is expected at a steady CAGR of 9.50% in between 2025 to 2034.
  • The global clinical trials market, valued at USD 54.39 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 94.68 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.7%.
  • China dominated the APAC clinical trials market with a revenue share in 2024. 
  • By phase, the phase 3 segment led the market with the largest revenue share in 2024.
  • By phase, the phase 2 segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the forecast period.
  • By study design, the interventional study segment held the largest market share in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the forecast period.
  • By indication, the oncology segment held the highest market share in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the forecast period.

Key Indicators and Highlights

Table Scope
Market Size in 2025 USD 11.92 Billion
Projected Market Size in 2034 USD 26.96 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2034) 9.50%
Market Segmentation By Phase, By Study Design, By Indication, By Region
Top Key Players LabCorp, Syneos Health, Novotech, Avance Clinical, AbbVie, Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC

What are Clinical Trials?

The market is growing rapidly due to increasing R&D activities, large patient populations, and supportive government policies. The APAC clinical trials are research studies conducted in the region to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and outcomes of new drugs or medical treatments in local populations. The APAC clinical trials market is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure, a surge in demand for personalized medicine, and advancements in digital health technologies.

Countries like China and India are emerging as key hubs for clinical research, driven by their large and diverse patient population, cost-effective operations, and supportive regulatory environments. This expansion is further fueled by the rise of Contract research organizations (CROs) and the adoption of decentralized clinical trial models, enhancing efficiency and accessibility in the region.

APAC Clinical Trials Market Outlook

  • Industry Growth Overview- The market is rapidly growing, driven by rising R&D investments, supportive government policies, cost-effective operations, skilled medical professionals, and increasing demand for innovative therapies across diverse patient populations.
  • Sustainability Trends- The APAC clinical trials market is embracing sustainability through decentralized trials, digital data collection, reduced travel, eco-friendly practices, and resource optimization, aiming to minimize environmental impact while enhancing efficiency and patient accessibility.
  • Major Investors- Major investors in the market include private equity, venture capital, pharmaceutical companies, and multinational corporations, funding R&D, expanding CROs, and enhancing infrastructure to drive growth and innovation.

How Can AI Affect the Market?

AI can significantly impact the APAC clinical trials market by accelerating patient recruitment, optimizing trial design, and improving data analysis. It enables predictive modeling, real-time monitoring, and personalized treatment strategies, reducing costs and timelines. AI-driven automation enhances accuracy in trial operations, while machine learning identifies patient cohorts and potential adverse effects more efficiently. Overall, AI adoption increases trial efficiency, supports decentralized models, and strengthens the region’s competitiveness in global clinical research.

What are the Government Initiatives in the APAC Clinical Trials Market in 2024?

  • In June 2024, China’s NMPA proposed a fast-track approval process for overseas drugs addressing urgent medical needs, including clinical trial waivers and shorter inspections, and sought public feedback until July 24, 2024. Earlier in April 2024, it also aimed to expedite approvals for orphan drugs to meet rising patient demand.
  • In 2024, the Australian government launched the Clinical Trials Activity Initiative, committing $750 million over 10 years to support trials targeting rare cancers, rare diseases, and unmet medical needs, as well as investigator-led international studies. This builds on earlier efforts to enhance Australia’s position in global clinical research, including the R&D refund scheme introduced in July 2021, which offers up to 43.5% cash refunds to incentivize research activities.

Clinical Trial Occurs in India

Year Number of New Clinical Trials % of Total Trials
2023 12,000 40% 
2024 18,000 60%

Segmental Insights

How does the Phase 3 Segment dominate the APAC Clinical Trials Market in 2024?

The phase 3 segment led the market with the largest revenue share in 2024 due to its critical role in confirming drug efficacy, monitoring side effects, and comparing new treatments with existing standards. These trials require a large patient population, longer duration, and greater investments. Additionally, increasing demand for late-stage clinical validation and prevalence of chronic diseases further the dominance of phase 3 trials in the market.

The phase 2 segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period due to the rising number of investigator-led and institution-based trials across the Asia-Pacific region. Favorable regulatory reforms, growing emphasis on targeted therapies, and increasing funding for early-stage research are accelerating phase 2 activities. Sponsors prefer this phase to assess drug efficacy and refine dosing before large-scale trials, making it a crucial step in advancing innovative treatment development efficiently.

Why Did the Interventional Study Segment Dominate the APAC Clinical Trials Market in 2024?

The interventional study segment dominated the market in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR due to its critical role in testing new treatments through controlled clinical settings. These studies provide reliable safety and efficacy data required for regulatory approvals. Increasing R&D investments, the rise of precision medicine, and advancements in digital trial technologies have further boosted interventional research. Additionally, growing patient enrollment and government support for innovative therapies are driving the market's continued expansion.

What made the Oncology Segment Dominant in the APAC Clinical Trials Market in 2024?

The oncology segment led the market in 2024 and is projected to grow fastest because of the increasing number of treatment-naïve cancer patients and expanding oncology research infrastructure across the Asia-Pacific. Supportive regulatory reforms, rising domestic biotech innovation, and growing participation in multinational cancer trials are driving the growth. Additionally, the focus on novel therapies, such as cell and gene treatment, continues to strengthen the region's position in global oncology clinical development.

Regional Insights

How is China contributing to the Expansion of the APAC Clinical Trials Market?

China dominated the market in 2024 due to its well-developed clinical research infrastructure, large pool of treatment-naïve patients, and growing expertise in biopharmaceutical innovation. Supportive government policies and streamlined regulatory processes have made the country a preferred hub for both domestic and international sponsors. Additionally, the adoption of advanced technologies, a skilled workforce, and collaboration between research institutes and pharmaceutical companies have strengthened China’s position as a leading center for clinical trials in the region.

In 2024, China registered 4,900 clinical trials (up 13.9% vs 2023). Of these, 2,539 (51.8%) were for new drug development, and 2,361 (48.2%) were bioequivalence studies.

Advanced Healthcare Infrastructure is Driving Japan

The Japan APAC clinical trials market is expanding due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, strong regulatory support, and growing focus on innovative therapies. The country has a well-established network of hospitals and research centers, enabling efficient patient recruitment and high-quality data collection. Additionally, government initiatives encourage collaboration between pharmaceutical companies and academic institutions, while increasing investment in biotechnology and precision medicine drives the development of novel treatments, making Japan a key contributor to the growth of clinical research in the region.

About 1,500 clinical trials are active at any time in Japan. Credevo The clinical trials support services market earned USD 1,030.8 million in 2024, with Phase III trials generating the highest revenue.

Supportive Government Policies are Driving India

India’s market is increasing due to its large and diverse patient population, which enables faster recruitment for both early- and late-phase studies. The country offers cost-effective trial operations, skilled medical professionals, and an improved clinical research infrastructure. Supportive government policies, such as streamlined regulatory approvals and incentives for foreign sponsors, encourage more multinational and domestic trials. Additionally, growing focus on innovative therapies and increasing healthcare investments are driving India’s rising role in the regional clinical trials landscape.

India registered approximately 18,000 new clinical trials in 2024, a 50% rise from the previous year. Of 94,730+ trials registered since 2000 in CTRI, 79% focus on non-communicable diseases.

Global Clinical Trials Market Growth

The global clinical trials market is valued at USD 54.39 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 94.68 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2034.

Clinical Trials Market Revenue 2023 - 2034

APAC Clinical Trials Market Value Chain Analysis

Clinical Trial

  • APAC clinical trials are growing due to large patient populations.
  • Cost-effective operations and supportive regulations boost early-stage trial activities.

Regulatory Approvals

  • Clinical trials in APAC need approval from each country’s regulatory authority.
  • Authorities like India’s CDSCO and Japan’s PMDA have their own specific timelines and requirements.

Patient Support and Services

  • APAC clinical trials provide patient support through concierge services, virtual platforms, and educational resources.
  • Remote nursing and partnerships with local advocacy groups help address logistical, cultural, and geographical challenges.

Top Vendors and their Offerings

  • IQVIA Inc.- IQVIA provides advanced data analytics, clinical research services, real-world evidence solutions, and technology-driven platforms to support pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and healthcare companies in drug development, commercialization, and patient-centric healthcare strategies.
  • Parexel International Corporation- Parexel International provides end-to-end clinical development, pharmacovigilance, and regulatory support, along with patient recruitment, real-world evidence, and strategic consulting services, helping biopharma companies efficiently bring new therapies to global markets.
  • Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.- Thermo Fisher Scientific provides comprehensive life sciences solutions, including clinical trial support, sample management, analytical services, and laboratory technologies, enabling pharmaceutical and biotech companies to streamline research, accelerate drug development, and ensure regulatory compliance.
  • ICON Plc.- ICON Plc. Provides outsourced development and commercialization services, including biometrics, medical imaging, clinical trial optimization, and consulting, supporting pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies in accelerating clinical programs globally.

Top Companies in the APAC Clinical Trials Market

Recent Developments in the APAC Clinical Trials Market

  • In February 2025, LabConnect formed a multi-year partnership with Australian Clinical Labs’ Specialised Trials to boost clinical trial support in Australia and the APAC region. The alliance leverages both organizations’ strengths to meet growing demand from pharmaceutical, biotech, and research institutions, ultimately facilitating patient access to essential medications.
  • In December 2024, Sunway Healthcare Group partnered with Syneos Health to strengthen clinical trial operations in Malaysia. The collaboration aims to improve patient access, streamline operations, offer specialized expertise, and engage diverse patient populations across multiple therapeutic areas and trial phases.

Segments Covered in the Report

By Phase

  • Phase 1
  • Phase 2
  • Phase 3
  • Phase 4

By Study Design

  • Observational Study
  • Interventional Study
  • Expanded Access Study

By Indication

  • Autoimmune/Inflammation
    • Rheumatoid arthritis
    • Multiple Sclerosis
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
    • Others
  • Pain Management
    • Chronic Pain
    • Acute Pain
    • Oncology
    • Blood Cancer
    • Solid Tumors
    • Other
  • CNS Condition
    • Epilepsy
    • Parkinson's Disease (PD)
    • Huntington's Disease
    • Stroke
    • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
    • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
    • Muscle Regeneration
    • Others
  • Diabetes
    • Obesity
    • Cardiovascular
    • Others

By Region 

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • Japan
    • India
    • South Korea
    • Thailand
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • UK
    • France
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Sweden
    • Denmark
    • Norway
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Mexico
    • Argentina
  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)
    • South Africa
    • UAE
    • Saudi Arabia
    • Kuwait

  

  • Last Updated: 13 October 2025
  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Kesiya Chacko is an accomplished market research professional with over 4+ years of experience in the healthcare industry, known for delivering actionable insights and strategic analysis that empower healthcare organizations.

Learn more about Kesiya Chacko

Aditi Shivarkar is a seasoned professional with over 14 years of experience in healthcare market research. As a content reviewer, Aditi plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and accuracy of all market insights and data presented by the research team.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

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FAQ's

The APAC clinical trials market currently in 2025 records USD 11.92 billion and is anticipated to grow to USD 26.96 billion by 2034, advancing at a CAGR of 9.50% from 2024 to 2034.

China is currently leading the APAC clinical trials market due to the increasing demand for new and effective therapies and rising R&D investments.

The APAC clinical trials market includes 4 segments by phase, by study design, by indication, and by region.

Approval must be obtained from each country authority, like India CDSCO or Japan PMDA, each with unique timelines and requirements.

India Brand Equity Foundation, Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, European Medicines Agency, and National Medical Products Administration.