July 2025
The global ophthalmic packaging market size is estimated at USD 7.35 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach around USD 15.89 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 8.20% between 2025 and 2034.
The U.S. ophthalmic packaging market size accounted for USD 1.67 billion in 2024 and is expected to be worth around USD 3.40 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2025 to 2034.
North America held the largest market share of more than 36.85% in 2024 and is expected to continue the same pattern over the forecast period. The regional growth is driven by factors such as an ageing population, increasing prevalence of eye disorders, technological advancements in ophthalmic products, and a robust healthcare infrastructure. For instance, according to the Population Reference Bureau (PRB) projections, the number of Americans 65 and older will nearly double from 52 million in 2018 to 95 million by 2060, increasing their percentage of the overall population from 16 percent to 23 percent.
Moreover, as per the study by Urban Institute, over the next 40 years, the number of Americans 65 and older will more than quadruple, reaching 80 million in 2040. Between 2000 and 2040, the proportion of persons 85 and older, who frequently require assistance with basic personal care, will nearly double. Furthermore, sustainability and environmental concerns are gaining prominence in North America. Market players in the ophthalmic packaging sector are increasingly adopting sustainable practices, such as using eco-friendly materials, reducing packaging waste, and implementing recycling programs. Therefore, these factors penetrate the market growth in the North American region over the forecast period.
The Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth in the region is attributed to the rising healthcare expenditure, large population base, increasing prevalence of eye disorders, and improving access to healthcare services. Moreover, there is rising awareness about eye health and the importance of regular eye examinations in the Asia-Pacific region. This increased focus on eye care translates into higher demand for ophthalmic products and subsequently drives the need for quality packaging solutions.
The Asia-Pacific ophthalmic packaging market comprises a mix of local packaging manufacturers and global companies. Local players often cater to domestic markets, while global companies have a significant presence and cater to both local and international demands. Key players in the region include Amcor Limited, SGD Pharma, Gerresheimer AG, Berry Global, Inc., and AptarGroup, Inc., among others. Thereby driving the market growth in the Asia Pacific region.
The ophthalmic packaging market refers to the industry involved in the production and distribution of packaging materials specifically designed for ophthalmic products and devices. Ophthalmic products include various pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and surgical instruments used for the treatment and diagnosis of eye-related conditions and diseases. Ophthalmic packaging plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, integrity, and sterility of these products throughout their lifecycle. It involves the design, manufacturing, and distribution of packaging solutions that protect ophthalmic products from contamination, breakages, and other forms of damage. These packaging materials also provide information about the product, such as its ingredients, dosage instructions, expiration dates, and regulatory information. The ophthalmic packaging market encompasses a wide range of packaging formats, including vials, bottles, ampoules, blister packs, tubes, cartons, and labels. These packaging solutions are typically designed to meet specific requirements, such as maintaining the sterility of ophthalmic medications or protecting delicate surgical instruments from damage.
The market for ophthalmic packaging is driven by factors such as the increasing prevalence of eye disorders and diseases, the growing demand for advanced ophthalmic products, and stringent regulations regarding product safety and quality. Additionally, the rise in the aging population and the increasing adoption of contact lenses and other vision correction devices also contribute to the growth of this market.
Report Coverage | Details |
Growth Rate from 2025 to 2034 | CAGR of 8.2% |
Market Size in 2024 | USD 7.35 Billion |
Market Size by 2034 | USD 15.89 Billion |
Largest Market | North America |
Fastest Growing Market | Asia Pacific |
Base Year | 2024 |
Forecast Period | 2025 to 2034 |
Segments Covered | By Material, By Product Type, and By Application |
Regions Covered | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa |
Increasing prevalence of eye disorders
The rising prevalence of eye disorders and diseases, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration, is driving the demand for ophthalmic products. This, in turn, fuels the need for specialized packaging to ensure the safety and efficacy of these products. For instance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the United States, 12 million persons aged 40 and older have a visual impairment, of which 1 million are blind, 3 million have it after having their vision corrected, and 8 million have it because of uncorrected refractive error. In addition, there are 6.8% of children under the age of 18 who have an eye or visual issue that has been medically diagnosed. Children under the age of 18 make up about 3% of those who are blind or visually impaired, which is defined as having vision problems even while using glasses or contact lenses. Thus, the increasing prevalence of eye disorders is expected to propel the growth of the market during the forecast period.
Environmental concerns
The increased focus on sustainability and environmental conservation poses challenges for the ophthalmic packaging market. The use of traditional packaging materials, such as plastics, can contribute to environmental pollution. Market players need to explore sustainable packaging alternatives and implement eco-friendly practices, which may require investments in research and development. Thus, the growing environmental concerns related to the use of plastics are expected to hamper the growth of the market during the forecast period.
Growth in e-commerce
The increasing popularity of e-commerce platforms for purchasing healthcare products presents an opportunity for ophthalmic packaging. Packaging solutions that are designed to protect products during shipping, enhance the unboxing experience, and provide clear product information can cater to the needs of online consumers and drive sales in the e-commerce channel. For instance, IBEF predicts that online retail penetration would increase from 4.7% in 2019 to 10.7% by 2024.
The number of online shoppers in India will reach 220 million by 2025. India's e-commerce industry is rated 9th in the world for cross-border growth, per a Payoneer analysis. In India, e-commerce is anticipated to increase from 4% of all retail sales of food and consumables, clothing, and consumer electronics to 8% by 2025. Therefore, the growth in the e-commerce sector drives the growth of the market during the forecast period.
The fastest growing segment is the ophthalmic packaging market is single dose eye drop packaging, which is set to expand rapidly over the forecast period. The growth of this segment is fuelled by the rising preference for perspective free formulations, which are safer and more suitable for patients with sensitive eyes or chronic conditions requiring long term treatment. Single dose units also address the increasing demand for enhanced hygiene and reduced contamination risks, as they eliminate the need for multi-use that may introduce microbial exposure. Moreover, their convenience and portability make them attractive for both patients and healthcare providers, aligning well with trends toward patient centric and user friendly drug delivery systems.
The plastic segment is anticipated to grow worth the highest momentum on the coming years. Advances in plastic technology, including the development of medical grade and eco-friendly polymers, are driving adoption across the ophthalmic sector. Plastic packaging offers significant advantages such as lightweight design, durability and the ability to be molded into innovative formats suitable for unit dose multi-dose delivery. In addition, the shift toward sustainable and recyclable materials supports the wider use of plastics, as manufacturers respond to regulatory pressures and consumer awareness regarding environmental impacts. This combination of functional versatility, cost effectiveness, and sustainability is positioning plastic as the fastest expanding material choice in ophthalmic packaging.
The prescription segment maintained a leading position I the ophthalmic packaging market in 2024, as prescription-based ophthalmic treatment are crucial for managing chronic and severe eye disorders such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal diseases. The segment benefits from strong physician recommendations, strict regulatory oversight, and the reliance of gaining populations on specialized treatments that require safe, tamper evident, and sterile packaging. As these therapies often involve complex drug formulations, their packaging demands advanced materials and formats that preserve products efficacy and extend shelf life, further solidifying the dominance of prescription packaging in the market.
In contrast, the OTC segment is projected to expand rapidly and emerge as the fastest growing by type during the forecast period. This growth is driven by increasing consumer preference for self-care and easy access to eye care products such as artificial tears, redness relivers, and allergy eye drops. With greater awareness of eye health, rising screen usage leading to digital eye strain, and the availability of cost effective OTC solutions at pharmacies and retail outlets, the demand for OTC ophthalmic packaging is accelerating. The segment also benefits from frequent product innovation and user friendly packaging formats, making it highly attractive in terms of both convenience and affordability.
The multi dose segment dominated the market in 2024, as it offers consumers a practical and economical solutions for long term use. Multi dose packaging is particularly popular and economical solutions for long term use. Multi dose packaging is particularly popular for chronic conditions requiring daily or frequent administration, as it providers consistent dosing, ease of use, and reduced packaging waste compared to single use alternatives. Advances in multi dose technology, including the incorporate of preservative free mechanisms an improved dispensing systems, have further strengthened its adoption in both prescription and OTC products. This combination of affordability, convenience, and innovation has enabled the multi dose segment to secure a strong foothold in the ophthalmic packaging industry.
Looking ahead, the multi dose segment is also predicted to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Its continued expansion is tied to the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions, as multi dose containers generate less plastic waste than single dose formats. Furthermore, manufacturers are introducing advanced multi dose systems that minimize contamination risks while maintaining product stability, making them a preferred choice for patients and healthcare providers alike. As consumer lifestyles become more reliant on accessible and long term eye care solutions, the multi dose format is set to retain dominance while accelerating at the fastest pace in terms of growth.
By Material
By Product Type
By Application
By Geography
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