The global continuous bioprocessing market is projected to grow at a rapid pace over the next several years, according to a new report from market research firm MarketsandMarkets. The market was valued at $218 million in 2023 and is expected to reach $599 million by 2028, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.4%.
Continuous bioprocessing integrates the various steps involved in biopharmaceutical manufacturing into a single, streamlined process. This approach delivers considerable advantages over traditional batch or fed-batch techniques, enabling more efficient, cost-effective, and reliable production. The growth of the continuous bioprocessing market is being fueled by rising biopharmaceutical demand, the shift towards continuous manufacturing, and new integrated end-to-end solutions coming to market.
Key factors driving continuous bioprocessing adoption include increased biopharmaceutical production to meet growing chronic disease demand, reduced costs compared to batch methods, and new integrated systems that connect individual process steps. However, the substantial upfront capital investment required poses a barrier to entry for some players.
Filtration systems and devices are projected as the fastest growing product segment, expected to expand at the highest CAGR over the forecast period. This is attributed to the key role of filtration technology in continuous mAb production coupled with a robust clinical pipeline awaiting approval.
Geographically, North America held the largest revenue share in 2022. The region is home to many leading vendors such as Danaher, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Repligen Corporation, along with an established biopharmaceutical sector creating significant demand pull. Strict regulations around single-use systems may constrain market expansion to a degree.
Asia Pacific represents an important growth opportunity owing to lower manufacturing costs coupled with favorable government policies aimed at advancing domestic biomanufacturing capabilities.
Key players operating in the global continuous bioprocessing marketplace include Sartorius, Merck KGaA, 3M Company, Getinge AB, and Corning Incorporated, among others. Recent developments include Sartorius teaming up with Repligen Corporation to launch an integrated bioreactor system simplifying perfusion implementations.
In summary, the continuous bioprocessing market stands primed for robust growth thanks to the operational and economic benefits of continuous production, rising industry demand, and maturing technology platforms. Companies that invest effectively stand to benefit from this rapidly evolving landscape. Those lagging the curve risk losing ground to more nimble competitors.