Global Softgel Capsules Market Trends, Size & Forecast by Region and Segment

The global softgel capsules market is witnessing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for efficient drug delivery systems, expanding dietary supplement usage, and innovations in encapsulation technologies. Valued at USD 8.70 billion in 2024, the market is projected to reach USD 16.75 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% from 2025 to 2034.

Softgel capsules, also known as soft gelatin capsules, are a popular dosage form used in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. These capsules consist of a gelatin-based shell filled with liquid or semi-liquid substances and offer several advantages over traditional tablets and hard capsules. Their ease of swallowing, superior bioavailability, tamper resistance, and ability to encapsulate both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs make them ideal for a wide range of therapeutic applications.

Market Overview and Summary

The global healthcare industry’s focus on patient-centric solutions and advanced drug delivery has led to a growing preference for softgel capsules. These capsules not only enhance drug absorption but also provide a convenient option for consumers who experience difficulty swallowing solid dosage forms.

Softgel capsules are widely used in the delivery of vitamins, dietary supplements, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-anxiety medications, and hormonal drugs. The increasing awareness of preventive healthcare, growing geriatric population, and the trend toward self-medication are further fueling the market. Pharmaceutical companies and contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs) are expanding their softgel production capacities and investing in research to develop innovative formulations with targeted and controlled release profiles.

Key Market Growth Drivers

Growing Demand for Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements: The rise in health-conscious consumers and the surge in preventive healthcare practices are increasing the demand for multivitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and herbal extracts—many of which are delivered in softgel form due to better stability and absorption.
Advancements in Drug Delivery Technologies: Innovations in encapsulation techniques, including gelatin alternatives (vegetarian or vegan capsules), enteric coatings, and lipid-based drug delivery systems, are enhancing the versatility and appeal of softgel capsules across pharmaceutical and nutraceutical segments.
Increasing Geriatric Population and Pediatric Applications: Softgel capsules are easier to swallow, making them an ideal delivery method for elderly patients and children, who often have difficulty with solid oral dosage forms.
Expansion of Contract Manufacturing Services: The rising trend of pharmaceutical outsourcing to contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) is providing a boost to the market, particularly for small and mid-sized pharmaceutical companies that lack in-house production capabilities.

Market Challenges

Despite their benefits, softgel capsules present some challenges. One key issue is the sensitivity of gelatin to heat and moisture, which can impact the stability of the capsules during production and storage. Manufacturers must invest in temperature-controlled environments and packaging solutions to maintain product integrity.

Another challenge lies in the high production costs and complex manufacturing processes. Compared to tablets, softgel capsules require sophisticated machinery and a more intricate formulation approach, which may hinder adoption among smaller pharmaceutical firms.

Additionally, the limited availability of plant-based or vegan alternatives to gelatin restricts options for companies looking to cater to the growing vegan and vegetarian consumer base. Regulatory concerns and cultural dietary restrictions related to animal-sourced gelatin also impact market dynamics in certain regions.

Key Companies in the Market

Aenova Holding GmbH
Captek Softgel International, Inc.
Catalent, Inc.
EuroCaps Ltd.
Lonza Group AG
Robinson Pharma, Inc.
Sirio Pharma Co., Ltd.
Softigel (Procaps Group S.A.)

Market Segmentation

Softgel Capsules Market, Type Outlook (Revenue - USD Billion, 2020–2034)

- - Gelatin based/Animal-based
  - Non-animal based

Softgel Capsules Market, Application Outlook (Revenue - USD Billion, 2020–2034)

- - Antacid and anti-flatulent preparations
  - Anti-anemic preparations
  - Anti-inflammatory drugs
  - Antibiotic and antibacterial drugs
  - Cough and cold preparations
  - Health supplement
  - Vitamin and dietary supplement
  - Pregnancy

Softgel Capsules Market, End Use Outlook (Revenue - USD Billion, 2020–2034)

- - Pharmaceutical Companies
  - Nutraceutical Companies
  - Cosmeceutical Companies
  - Contract Manufacturing Organization

Softgel Capsules Market, Regional Outlook (Revenue - USD Billion, 2020–2034)

- - North America
    - Type Outlook
      - Gelatin based/Animal-based
      - Non-animal based
    - Application Outlook
      - Antacid and anti-flatulent preparations
      - Anti-anemic preparations
      - Anti-inflammatory drugs
      - Antibiotic and antibacterial drugs
      - Cough and cold preparations
      - Health supplement
      - Vitamin and dietary supplement
    - End Use Outlook
      - Pharmaceutical Companies
      - Nutraceutical Companies
      - Cosmeceutical Companies
      - Contract Manufacturing Organization
  - Europe
    - Type Outlook
      - Type Outlook
        
        Gelatin based/Animal-based
        
        Non-animal based
      - Application Outlook
        
        Antacid and anti-flatulent preparations
        
        Anti-anemic preparations
        
        Anti-inflammatory drugs
        
        Antibiotic and antibacterial drugs
        
        Cough and cold preparations
        
        Health supplement
        
        Vitamin and dietary supplement
      - End Use Outlook
        
        Pharmaceutical Companies
        
        Nutraceutical Companies
        
        Cosmeceutical Companies
        
        Contract Manufacturing Organization

Explore More:

https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/softgel-capsules-market

Conclusion

The global softgel capsules market is well-positioned for sustained growth, fueled by the convergence of healthcare innovation, evolving consumer preferences, and increasing emphasis on wellness and preventative care. As pharmaceutical companies, nutraceutical brands, and contract manufacturers continue to invest in advanced drug delivery systems, softgel capsules are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of oral therapeutics.

With technological advancements, broader product offerings, and increasing focus on sustainability, the market is poised to expand further across both developed and emerging economies. Companies that prioritize innovation, quality, and consumer needs will remain at the forefront of this dynamic and growing industry.

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