Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Size, Share, and Trends

The global antimicrobial susceptibility testing market size was USD 3.40 billion in 2023, calculated at USD 3.61 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach around USD 6.50 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2024 to 2034. 

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Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Key Takeaways

• North America led the global market with the highest market share of 42% in 2023.
• Asia-Pacific is expected to expand at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period.
• By Product Type, the manual products integration segment has held the largest revenue share of 43% in 2023.
• By Product Type, the automated products segment is anticipated to grow at a notable CAGR of 6.7% during the projected period.
• By Method Type, the disk diffusion segment had the biggest market share of 34% in 2023.
• By Method Type, the rapid automation segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR over the projected period.
• By End User, the hospitals & diagnostic laboratories segment held the major revenue share of 36% in 2023.
• By End User, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies segment is expanding at a remarkable CAGR of 15.9% over the predicted period.

Market Overview

The antimicrobial susceptibility testing market pertains to the global sector dedicated to evaluating the efficacy of antimicrobial agents against diverse pathogens, encompassing bacteria, fungi, and viruses. AST assumes a pivotal role in guiding medical practitioners in selecting appropriate antibiotic treatments by ascertaining the susceptibility or resistance of microorganisms to specific pharmaceuticals. This market encompasses a variety of testing methodologies, including disk diffusion, broth microdilution, and molecular approaches, and is propelled by the escalating prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections on a global scale. Factors such as increasing healthcare expenditures, technological innovations, and the demand for precision medicine are driving the continual expansion of the antimicrobial susceptibility testing market.

U.S. Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Size and Growth 2024 to 2033

The U.S. antimicrobial susceptibility testing market size was valued at USD 1 billion in 2023 and is estimated to reach around USD 1.96 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 6.3% from 2024 to 2034.

North America has held the largest revenue share 42% in 2023. North America commands a substantial share in the antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) market due to several factors. The region boasts advanced healthcare infrastructure and high awareness of antibiotic resistance issues, driving the demand for precise susceptibility testing. Moreover, North America is home to numerous pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies actively engaged in drug development, relying heavily on AST for research. Regulatory support and robust funding for healthcare further bolster the market. Additionally, the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections in the region necessitates comprehensive AST, ensuring North America's prominent position in the global AST market.

Asia-Pacific is estimated to observe the fastest expansion. Asia-Pacific commands a substantial share in the antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) market due to several key factors. The region's high population density and increasing healthcare expenditure drive demand for accurate infection diagnostics and treatment guidance provided by AST. Moreover, the rising burden of antibiotic-resistant infections in Asia-Pacific countries necessitates greater reliance on AST for effective clinical decisions. Additionally, ongoing technological advancements and expanding healthcare infrastructure in the region facilitate the adoption of AST methods. Collaborations between healthcare organizations and AST providers further enhance market penetration, solidifying Asia-Pacific's significant presence in the AST market.

Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Growth Factors

The antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is a thriving industry that plays a pivotal role in evaluating the effectiveness of antimicrobial drugs against a spectrum of pathogens, encompassing bacteria, fungi, and viruses. In essence, AST aids healthcare professionals in making informed decisions regarding antibiotic treatments by determining the susceptibility or resistance of microorganisms to specific medications. This market boasts a diverse array of testing methodologies, including disk diffusion, broth microdilution, and molecular techniques, and it has been steadily expanding due to the escalating global prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections.

Several key industry trends are shaping the future of antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Technological advancements, particularly in molecular testing techniques, have enhanced the precision and speed of susceptibility testing, providing more tailored treatment options. Furthermore, the increasing global healthcare expenditure and awareness of antibiotic resistance issues are driving the growth of this market, as healthcare providers seek accurate and efficient solutions to combat infections effectively.

However, the antimicrobial susceptibility testing market also faces challenges, primarily related to the rapid evolution of antibiotic-resistant strains and the need for continuous innovation in testing methods to keep pace with these developments. Regulatory hurdles and the associated costs of compliance can pose obstacles for market players. Additionally, the global spread of infectious diseases, as highlighted by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores the importance of maintaining robust antimicrobial susceptibility testing capabilities to address emerging health threats.

Despite these challenges, the antimicrobial susceptibility testing market offers significant business opportunities. Investment in research and development to create innovative testing solutions, along with collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and diagnostic providers, can drive market growth. Moreover, as precision medicine gains traction, there is a growing demand for personalized treatment strategies, further fueling the need for accurate susceptibility testing.

In summary, the antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is a critical component of modern healthcare, aiding in the fight against antibiotic-resistant infections. While it faces challenges stemming from evolving pathogens and regulatory complexities, the industry is poised for growth driven by technological advancements, increased healthcare expenditure, and the rising importance of personalized medicine. To succeed in this dynamic landscape, stakeholders must remain agile, invest in innovation, and collaborate to address the evolving needs of healthcare providers and patients alike.

Market Scope

Market Dynamics

Driver

Antibiotic resistance epidemic

The surge in antibiotic resistance worldwide is a principal catalyst propelling the growth of antimicrobial susceptibility testing industry. This escalating epidemic of antibiotic-resistant infections poses a significant and urgent threat to global public health. In response, healthcare providers and institutions are actively seeking robust solutions to address this critical challenge. Within this context, AST assumes a pivotal role. It equips healthcare practitioners with the essential capability to swiftly and precisely identify the antibiotics most likely to be efficacious against specific strains of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This precision is vital in mitigating the misuse of antibiotics, reducing treatment failures, and stemming the further proliferation of resistance.

Moreover, the repercussions of antibiotic resistance, including prolonged hospital stays, heightened healthcare expenditures, and elevated mortality rates, are serving to amplify the demand for AST. As healthcare systems grapple with these multifaceted challenges, there is a growing acknowledgment of the cost-effectiveness and clinical advantages associated with AST. Consequently, its adoption and expansion within the market continue to gain momentum.

In essence, the Antibiotic Resistance Epidemic serves as an unmistakable impetus underscoring the indispensable role that AST plays in safeguarding public health. It remains a compelling driver behind the sustained growth of the antimicrobial susceptibility testing industry.

Restraints

The rapid evolution of resistance

The rapid evolution of resistance among microbial pathogens poses a significant restraint on the antimicrobial susceptibility testing market's growth. As pathogens continually adapt and develop new mechanisms of resistance to antibiotics, the AST industry faces an ongoing challenge to keep pace with these changes. The emergence of multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant strains of bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens complicates susceptibility testing. Traditional AST methods may become less effective or obsolete against these evolving strains, necessitating the development of new testing methodologies, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Moreover, the constantly changing resistance landscape requires frequent updates to AST guidelines and protocols. This dynamic environment adds complexity to the regulatory processes, potentially delaying the approval and adoption of new AST technologies. In essence, the relentless evolution of resistance underscores the need for continuous innovation and adaptation within the AST market, making it imperative for industry stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing this formidable challenge.

Opportunities

Global health initiatives

Global health programs and initiatives geared towards addressing antibiotic resistance and infectious diseases play a pivotal role in shaping promising opportunities within the antimicrobial susceptibility testing market. These initiatives, championed by governments, international health organizations, and philanthropic institutions, are dedicated to fortifying healthcare systems and elevating diagnostic capabilities worldwide.

As part of their strategic approach, these efforts allocate substantial financial resources to facilitate the adoption of advanced AST technologies, especially in underserved regions, thereby broadening the market's horizons and customer base. Moreover, collaborative ventures between these initiatives and the private sector can stimulate research and development endeavors, resulting in the creation of more cost-effective and user-friendly AST solutions. In a global collective effort against infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance, the AST market stands to gain from heightened investments, innovation, and enhanced accessibility, ultimately contributing to improved patient care and better global health outcomes.

Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic had a notable impact on the antimicrobial susceptibility testing industry. While the immediate focus shifted toward pandemic response, it also highlighted the importance of AST in managing secondary bacterial infections in COVID-19 patients. The market saw increased demand for AST in clinical laboratories, emphasizing the need for rapid and accurate susceptibility testing. However, disruptions in the supply chain, reduced healthcare facility capacities, and budget constraints in some regions posed challenges. In the long term, the pandemic underscored the critical role of AST in infectious disease management, potentially driving investments and innovations in the field.

Product Type Insights

According to the product type, the manual products Integration sector has held 43% revenue share in 2023. The manual products segment holds a significant share in the Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) market due to its established presence and versatility. Manual methods have been the traditional approach for susceptibility testing, making them widely adopted and trusted by healthcare facilities globally. They offer cost-effective solutions suitable for a broad range of pathogens and settings, particularly in resource-limited areas. Despite advancements in automation and molecular techniques, manual methods remain essential for many laboratories, ensuring their continued dominance in the AST market. Moreover, their simplicity and reliability make them a preferred choice for routine testing and educational institutions.

The automated products sector is anticipated to expand at a significantly CAGR of 6.7% during the projected period. The automated products segment commands a significant growth in the Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) market due to several key factors. Automation offers advantages such as higher testing throughput, improved accuracy, and quicker results compared to manual methods. In an era where timely treatment decisions are critical to combat antibiotic resistance, automated products streamline the testing process, enhancing efficiency and reducing human errors. They also align with the trend towards integrated and automated diagnostic solutions in healthcare. As a result, healthcare facilities increasingly adopt automated AST systems, contributing to the segment's substantial market growth.

Method Type Insights

The disk diffusion segment had the highest market share of 34% on the basis of the method type in 2023. The disk diffusion segment holds a major share in the Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) market due to its long-standing reputation for simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and widespread adoption in clinical laboratories. This traditional method offers a straightforward approach to testing antimicrobial susceptibility, making it accessible even in resource-limited settings. Additionally, it serves as a benchmark for comparing results with newer, more advanced AST methods. While molecular and automated methods are gaining ground, the enduring popularity of disk diffusion ensures its continued significant market share, particularly in routine testing and in regions where resources are constrained.

The rapid automation is anticipated to expand at the fastest rate over the projected period. The rapid automation segment commands significant growth in the Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) market due to its ability to meet the growing demand for quick and precise results. Automation streamlines the testing process, reducing manual labor and the potential for human error, while also delivering results in a shorter timeframe. This is particularly crucial in clinical settings where timely treatment decisions are essential. Additionally, automation enhances testing scalability, making it suitable for high-throughput laboratories. Its efficiency and reliability have made it a preferred choice, driving its substantial growth in the AST market.

End User Insights

The Hospitals & Diagnostic Laboratories segment held the largest revenue share of 36% in 2023. The hospitals & diagnostic laboratories segment commands a significant share in the Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) market due to several factors. Hospitals are primary centers for patient care and diagnostics, making AST a fundamental component of infection management. It's routinely used to guide antibiotic therapy, ensuring effective treatment while curbing antibiotic resistance. Moreover, diagnostic laboratories within hospitals are well-equipped with AST infrastructure and expertise. The growing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections, coupled with the need for rapid and accurate testing, solidifies the dominance of this segment as hospitals and labs play a pivotal role in patient care and disease control.

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies sector is anticipated to grow at a significantly faster rate, registering a CAGR of 15.9% over the predicted period.

The dominance growth of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies segment in the antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) market can be attributed to its integral role in the realm of drug innovation. These entities rely heavily on AST as a linchpin in the development of novel antibiotics and antimicrobial solutions. The AST framework serves as a critical compass in their research, guiding the assessment of drug candidates against resilient pathogens. Moreover, these firms invest significantly in AST technologies to vigilantly track the emergence of resistance patterns, ensuring the enduring efficacy of their antimicrobial products. Thus, their substantial engagement in drug development and surveillance solidifies their prominence growth within the AST market.

Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Companies

• Accelerate Diagnostics, Inc.
• Becton, Dickinson and Company
• Biomerieux SA
• Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
• Bruker
• Danaher Corporation (Beckman Coulter)
• F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG
• HiMedia Laboratories
• Merck KGaA (MilliporeSigma)
• Thermo Fisher Scientific

Recent Developments

• In January 2023, bioMerieux introduced a cutting-edge automated instrument known as MAESTRIA. This addition to their product lineup represents their commitment to advancing automation in the field of diagnostics.
• In May 2022, Qualigen Therapeutics made an announcement regarding its strategic partnership with NanoSynex Ltd. Qualigen had recently finalized agreements to acquire a majority stake in NanoSynex, which showcased its cutting-edge technology at BioMed Israel. NanoSynex's innovative technology is geared towards significantly expediting the results of antimicrobial susceptibility tests, reducing the time required by a remarkable six-fold.
• In April 2022, COPAN Diagnostics took the opportunity to showcase its array of fully automated solutions designed for clinical microbiology, particularly in the realm of identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). This demonstration took place during the 32nd European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID 2022). One highlight was the presentation of the Food and Drug Administration-cleared Colibri, a fully automated specimen workup instrument. It is specifically engineered to prepare MALDI-TOF ID targets and generate bacterial suspensions for AST.
• In August 2022, BD India unveiled the BD MAX MDR-TB panel, further enhancing their portfolio of diagnostic solutions, particularly in the context of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.
• In May 2022, Thermofisher Scientific unveiled a range of automated antimicrobial susceptibility products, underlining their dedication to delivering state-of-the-art solutions for this critical aspect of microbiology and infectious disease management.

Segments Covered in the Report

By Product Type

• Manual Products
• Automated Products
• Consumables

By Method Type

• ETEST
• Disks Diffusion
• Rapid Automation Method
• Others

By End User

• Hospitals & Diagnostic Laboratories
• Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies
• Others

By Geography

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa