Europe Medical Plastic Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (PVC, Polyamide, Polysulfone, Polypropylene), By Application (Tubing, Catheters), By Country (UK, Germany), And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Report Overview

The Europe medical plastic market size was estimated at USD 1.39 billion in 2023 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for advanced healthcare services, and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases necessitates the use of high-quality medical devices and equipment, which in turn boosts the demand for medical plastics. Additionally, technological advancements in medical plastics, such as the development of biocompatible and biodegradable materials, are enhancing their application in various medical fields. The aging population in Europe also contributes significantly, as older individuals typically require more medical care and devices. Furthermore, the ongoing trend towards minimally invasive surgical procedures, which often utilize medical plastics, further propels the market expansion.

Regulations play a crucial role in shaping the Europe healthcare market, ensuring safety, quality, and innovation. The introduction of the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) 2017/745 and the In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR) 2017/746 has significantly affected the market. These regulations, which came into effect in 2020 and 2022 respectively, have tightened controls on medical devices, requiring rigorous conformity assessments, clinical evaluations, and post-market surveillance. The MDR, for instance, mandates the use of a unique device identifier (UDI) for better traceability and transparency through the EUDAMED database. Additionally, environmental regulations are pushing manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices, further influencing the market dynamics.

Product Insights

The Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) segment accounted for 27.2% of the market. This significant market share can be attributed to PVC’s versatility and cost-effectiveness, making it a preferred material for a wide range of medical applications. PVC is extensively used in the production of medical devices such as blood bags, IV containers, and tubing due to its excellent clarity, flexibility, and durability. Additionally, PVC’s compatibility with various sterilization methods, including steam, radiation, and ethylene oxide, enhances its suitability for medical applications. Moreover, the ongoing advancements in PVC formulations, which improve its biocompatibility and reduce the presence of harmful additives, continue to bolster its demand in the medical sector.

Polypropylene is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is driven by PP’s unique properties, such as high chemical resistance, low density, and excellent mechanical strength, which make it ideal for various medical applications. Its ability to withstand high temperature and its resistance to repeated sterilization processes without degrading make it a valuable material in the medical field. Additionally, the increasing focus on reducing healthcare costs and improving patient safety is driving the adoption of PP in disposable medical products, which helps prevent cross-contamination and infection. The material’s recyclability and environmental benefits also contribute to its growing popularity.

Application Insights

The tubing segment held the largest revenue share in 2023. This dominance is primarily due to the extensive use of medical tubing in various healthcare applications, including intravenous (IV) therapy, catheters, peristaltic pumps, and respiratory equipment. The demand for medical tubing is driven by its critical role in fluid and gas transfer, which is essential for patient care. The versatility of materials such as PVC, silicone, and polyolefins in manufacturing medical tubing contributes to its widespread adoption. These materials offer excellent biocompatibility, flexibility, and durability, making them suitable for a range of medical procedures. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular and respiratory disorders, necessitates the use of medical tubing in treatment and management, further boosting its market share.

The venous cannula segment is projected to witness the fastest growth from 2024 to 2030. This rapid growth can be attributed to the rising number of surgical procedures and the increasing adoption of minimally invasive techniques. Venous cannulas are essential for various medical interventions, including cardiopulmonary bypass, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and intravenous therapy. The growing preference for minimally invasive surgeries, which offer reduced recovery times and lower risk of complications, is driving the demand for venous cannulas. Furthermore, advancements in cannula design and materials, such as the development of biocompatible and flexible plastics, enhance patient comfort and safety, contributing to their increased usage. The aging population in Europe, which requires more frequent medical interventions, also plays a significant role in the projected growth of the venous cannula segment.

Country Insights

Germany Medical Plastic Market Insights & Trends

Germany held the largest market share in the Europe medical plastic market in 2023. This leadership position is driven by Germany’s advanced healthcare infrastructure, significant investments in medical technology, and a strong presence of key medical device manufacturers. The country’s emphasis on innovation and quality in medical devices ensures a steady demand for high-grade medical plastics. Additionally, Germany’s robust regulatory framework and focus on research and development further support the growth of the medical plastic market.

France Medical Plastic Market Insights & Trends

The France medical plastic marketis expected to grow at a significant CAGR from 2024 to 2030. This growth is fuelled by the increasing adoption of advanced medical technologies and the rising demand for minimally invasive surgical procedures. The French government’s initiatives to improve healthcare services and infrastructure also play a crucial role in driving the market. Furthermore, the presence of leading medical device companies and a strong focus on research and development contribute to the market’s expansion.

UK Medical Plastic Market Insights & Trends

The UK accounted for 12.7% of the revenue share in the Europe medical plastic market in 2023. Its well-established healthcare system and a high level of medical device consumption characterize the UK’s market. The country’s focus on innovation and the development of new medical technologies, along with strong regulatory support, drives the demand for medical plastics. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the aging population contribute to the steady demand for medical devices and, consequently, medical plastics.

Italy Medical Plastic Market Insights & Trends

The Italy medical plastic market is projected to grow steadily over the forecast period. The growth in the Italian medical plastic market is supported by the country’s expanding healthcare sector and increasing investments in medical infrastructure. Italy’s focus on improving healthcare services and the rising demand for advanced medical devices drive the market. Additionally, the growing aging population and the prevalence of chronic diseases necessitate the use of medical plastics in various healthcare applications, contributing to the market’s steady growth.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some of the key players operating in the market include BASF SE, Evonik, Solvay, and SABIC, and others. Companies are focusing on expanding their product line. Furthermore, key players are taking several strategic initiatives, such as mergers and acquisitions and partnerships with other major companies.

• BASF SE offers an extensive portfolio of engineering plastics tailored for medical technology needs. Its products, such as Ultraform PRO (POM) and Ultradur PRO (PBT), are specifically developed to meet the stringent requirements of the medical industry.

• Evonik Industries AG is another key player in the European medical plastic market. Its product portfolio includes special polymers like VESTAKEEP PEEK, which is used in orthopaedic implants. Additionally, Evonik offers RESOMER biodegradable polymers for implants that dissolve in the body over time, eliminating the need for follow-up surgeries. Its VESTAMID Care and TROGAMID Care materials are widely used in catheters and other medical devices due to their high chemical resistance and flexibility.

Recent Developments

• In June 2024, DuPont announced its agreement to acquire Donatelle Plastics Incorporated, a prominent medical device contract manufacturer, enhancing its healthcare offerings. The acquisition, expected to finalize in the third quarter of 2024, aims to strengthen DuPont's position in high-growth therapeutic areas such as drug delivery and diagnostics.

Europe Medical Plastic Market Scope

Europe Medical Plastic Market Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the Asia Pacific medical plastic market report based on product, application, and country:

• Product Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • PVC

  • Polycarbonate

  • Polyamide

  • Polysulfone

  • Polyurethane

  • Polypropylene

  • Others

• Application Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Tubing

  • Catheters

  • Membranes

  • Venous Cannula

  • Venous Reservoir

  • Capillaries

  • Others

• Country Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • UK

  • Germany

  • France

  • Italy