The global small molecule CMO/CDMO market size is expected to register a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period. The market value is projected to increase from USD 74,998.1 million in 2024 to USD 124,532.4 million by 2034. The small molecule CMO/CDMO market value totaled USD 68,455.5 million at the end of 2023 and is set to exhibit a y-o-y growth of 5.2% in 2024.
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Small Molecule CMO/CDMO Market Size in 2023 | USD 68,455.5 million |
| Estimated Small Molecule CMO/CDMO Market Value (2024) | USD 74,998.1 million |
| Projected Small Molecule CMO/CDMO Market Size (2034) | USD 124,532.4 million |
| Small Molecule CMO/CDMO Market Value CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 5.2% |
Companies in the biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries hire CDMO for development and production services. This allows them to significantly reduce overall costs, save time, and streamline several processes.
A wide range of services, such as development, packaging, clinical supply, analytical testing, biomanufacturing, and fill finishing, are provided by biotechnology CDMOs/CMOs. Pharmaceutical, biopharma, and biotechnology companies would collaborate with CDMOs to outsource drug research and manufacturing.
Production of biopharmaceuticals is determined by manufacturing scale. The final user can choose to use the entire biologics production process for either commercial or clinical uses. The study solely looks at clinical and commercial applications and measures the manufacturing capacity and income generated by biopharmaceutical contract manufacturing.
The global small molecule CMO/CDMO market recorded a CAGR of 3.8% from 2019 to 2023. As per the global small molecule CMO/CDMO industry analysis, the target market is projected to expand at a 5.2% CAGR.
| Historical CAGR (2019 to 2023) | 3.8% |
|---|---|
| Forecast CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 5.2% |
CMOs and CDMOs with a wide range of services, including drug substance manufacturing, drug product formulation, analytical services, and regulatory support, can offer a one-stop shop for pharmaceutical companies. This simplifies the outsourcing process, as pharmaceutical clients can find all the necessary expertise under one roof, reducing the complexity of managing multiple vendors.
The ability to seamlessly integrate different aspects of drug development and manufacturing is a key advantage. CMOs and CDMOs with diverse portfolios can offer integrated solutions that streamline processes, reduce communication gaps, and enhance project efficiency.
Pharmaceutical companies have varying needs at different stages of drug development. CMOs and CDMOs with a diverse service portfolio can adapt to these changing needs, allowing clients to engage with the same partner throughout the drug development lifecycle.
Engaging multiple vendors for different aspects of drug development and manufacturing can increase complexity. CMOs and CDMOs with a comprehensive portfolio simplify this process, offering pharmaceutical companies a single point of contact for a wide array of services.
Complex drug development requires specialized knowledge in areas such as formulation, process optimization, analytical techniques, and regulatory compliance. CMOs and CDMOs with expertise in handling complex molecules and formulations have become sought-after partners for pharmaceutical companies looking to outsource these aspects.
Complex drug development often involves advanced manufacturing technologies and techniques. CMOs and CDMOs that invest in and adopt these technologies, such as continuous manufacturing or advanced analytical methods, can offer unique solutions to address the challenges posed by complex drug candidates.
The complexities of small molecule drugs can lead to challenges in optimizing manufacturing processes. CMOs and CDMOs that specialize in process development and optimization can help pharmaceutical companies streamline production, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
Complex drug candidates often require tailored solutions to overcome formulation and manufacturing challenges. CMOs and CDMOs that offer customized approaches can provide solutions that meet the specific needs of each drug, enhancing the chances of successful development.
The growing adoption of drug development and manufacturing services by pharmaceutical companies is expected to boost the global small molecule CMO/CDMO market during the forecast period. Similarly, a rising focus on reducing the overall cost of small-molecule drugs is expected to drive demand through 2034.
Concerns about IP protection can lead pharmaceutical companies to limit the information they share with CMOs and CDMOs. This restricted information flow can hinder effective collaboration, as both parties need to work closely and share knowledge for successful drug development and manufacturing.
The fear of IP exposure can discourage CMOs and CDMOs from fully engaging in innovative problem-solving and process optimization. This can hinder the development of more efficient and advanced manufacturing processes, limiting the potential benefits of outsourcing.
Intellectual property concerns can lead to a lack of trust between pharmaceutical companies and CMOs/CDMOs. This lack of trust can hinder open communication, effective project management, and the establishment of long-term partnerships.
Crafting agreements that address IP protection can be complex and time-consuming. Negotiating and finalizing such agreements can delay project initiation and increase administrative burden, potentially affecting project timelines and costs.
If IP concerns are not adequately addressed, pharmaceutical companies can be hesitant to collaborate with CMOs and CDMOs, particularly if the potential benefits of outsourcing are outweighed by the risks associated with IP exposure. These factors can limit market expansion through 2034.
This section brings to the fore key highlights of the small molecule CMO/CDMO industry across prominent countries. Out of all the countries profiled, the United States, China, and Japan are expected to witness lucrative CAGRs of 4.8%, 6.5%, and 5.2%, respectively, through 2034.
Market Growth Outlook by Key Countries
| Countries | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| United States | 4.8% |
| Germany | 3.9% |
| United Kingdom | 3.5% |
| Japan | 5.2% |
| China | 6.5% |
The United States is expected to retain its dominance in the North America small molecule CMO/CDMO industry during the forecast period. This is due to the robust expansion of the pharmaceutical sector, the strong presence of leading CMO/CDMOs, and the favorable regulatory environment.
As per the latest analysis, the United States small molecule CMO/CDMO market size is projected to reach USD 23,495.7 million by 2034. Over the assessment period, demand in the United States is set to rise at a 4.8% CAGR.
Global operations of CMOs and CDMOs with United States-based operations are being expanded in response to the increasing demand for pharmaceutical manufacturing services across multiple geographies. The pharmaceutical sector has strict regulations, so CMOs and CDMOs who can guarantee compliance with standards are highly sought after.
Advances in manufacturing technologies, such as process analytical technology (PAT) and continuous manufacturing, which are improving operational efficiency, are affecting the CMO/CDMO environment in the United States. Several United States-based pharmaceutical giants are looking to outsource their operations, which will boost the target market.
China’s small molecule CMO/CDMO market is poised to exhibit a CAGR of 6.5% during the assessment period. It will likely attain a valuation of USD 37,932.6 million by 2034. This is attributable to the rising demand for pharmaceuticals in China.
The pharmaceutical industry in China is expanding significantly due to several factors. These include an aging population, growing health awareness, and rising income levels. Opportunities for small molecule CMOs and CDMOs to meet the rising demand for pharmaceuticals will be created by this growth.
China has implemented regulatory reforms to optimize procedures and harmonize with global norms. Due to this, the regulatory landscape has improved, and it is now more favorable for international businesses to interact with China-based CMOs and CDMOs.
International pharmaceutical corporations are forging strategic alliances with a growing number of China-based CMOs and CDMOs. Through these partnerships, China-based businesses can access international markets and expertise, and foreign businesses can take advantage of affordable manufacturing solutions.
Germany is renowned for upholding strict quality standards and for its advanced industrial skills. Pharmaceutical businesses seeking dependable and effective small molecule CMOs and CDMOs are drawn to this.
With a well-established network of universities and research organizations, Germany places a high priority on research and development. Germany's CMOs and CDMOs gain from having access to state-of-the-art research and a highly qualified workforce.
Germany has strict regulations, and businesses that operate there must abide by rigorous standards of quality and safety. This regulatory compliance is a big draw for businesses looking for trustworthy manufacturing partners.
As per the latest report, Germany’s small molecule CMO/CDMO market value is predicted to reach USD 5,308.6 million by 2034. It will likely exhibit a CAGR of 3.9% during the assessment period.
Japan’s small molecule CMO/CDMO market is projected to expand at a 5.2% CAGR during the assessment period. It is expected to total a valuation of USD 22,989.8 million by the end of 2034.
Several factors are expected to drive demand in Japan during the assessment period. These include the rising focus of Japan-based pharmaceutical companies on reducing drug development costs and expansion of the generic drug sector.
Leading pharmaceutical companies across Japan are adopting drug development and manufacturing services to reduce drug development and manufacturing costs. This will continue to boost the target market through 2034.
The United Kingdom’s small molecule CMO/CDMO market is expected to thrive at a 3.5% CAGR during the assessment period. This is attributable to rising outsourcing trends, growing demand for biologics and personalized medicines, and increasing government support.
The United Kingdom’s government is supportive of the CMO/CDMO industry as it has introduced several policies to support its growth. This is anticipated to improve the share of the United Kingdom's small molecule CMO/CDMO market share.
The section below shows the standard API segment dominating the small molecule CMO/CDMO market. It is predicted to expand at 4.5% CAGR during the assessment period. Based on services, the process development category is expected to generate significant revenue in the market, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.1% through 2034.
By company size, the mid-sized segment is expected to lead the market, thriving at a 4.8% CAGR between 2024 and 2034. Based on the scale of operation, the commercial segment is predicted to rise at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period.
Market Growth Outlook by Key Product
| Product | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Standard API | 4.5% |
| HPAPI | 7.5% |
As per the latest analysis, the standard API segment is expected to dominate the market for small molecule CMO/CDMOs during the forecast period. It is poised to exhibit a CAGR of 4.5%, totaling USD 89,420.2 million by 2034.
Standard APIs are frequently found in a wide variety of pharmaceutical goods. These typical, well-researched active compounds are present in multiple drugs and have a broad range of therapeutic applications.
As standard APIs are used in different pharmaceutical formulations, it is frequently necessary to demand them in large amounts. Owing to their high demand, they are a top choice for CMOs and CDMOs looking to take advantage of economies of scale.
Economies of scale can lead to more cost-effective manufacturing of conventional APIs. Pharmaceutical businesses can benefit from cost-competitive pricing and process optimization provided by CMOs and CDMOs that specialize in producing standard APIs.
Market Growth Outlook by Services
| Service | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Process Development | 4.1% |
| Analytical Method Development | 4.5% |
| GMP Manufacturing Service | 4.9% |
| Scale-Up and Tech Transfer | 7.4% |
| Quality Control and Quality Assurance | 5.6% |
| Regulatory Assistance | 6.4% |
| Technology and Innovation | 7.9% |
Based on services, the process development segment is projected to hold a dominant revenue share of 24.8% by 2034. The target segment will likely thrive at a 4.1% CAGR during the assessment period, reaching USD 29,381.4 million by the end of 2034.
Customizing and streamlining manufacturing procedures for particular small molecule compounds is the focus of process development services. This customized method guarantees economical and successful manufacture while satisfying the particular needs of every client's molecule.
Process development-focused CMOs and CDMOs usually possess both chemical and engineering knowledge. Their interdisciplinary understanding enables them to create manufacturing techniques for complex tiny compounds that are both scalable and sturdy.
Early on in the drug development process, CMOs and CDMOs that provide process development services are frequently involved. They help a drug candidate successfully go from the lab to commercial production by offering support starting in the discovery phase. Process development services assist in identifying and reducing risks and obstacles that can arise during the production of a certain small molecule.
Market Growth Outlook by Key Company Size
| Company Size | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Large | 5.3% |
| Mid-sized | 4.8% |
| Small | 6.0% |
The mid-sized segment is predicted to lead the global small molecule CMO/CDMO industry during the assessment period. It is set to progress at a 4.8% CAGR, totaling a valuation of USD 55,615.8 million by 2034.
Compared to larger firms, mid-sized businesses are frequently more nimble and adaptable. Their flexibility enables them to promptly address shifts in customer requirements, adjust to new technological advancements, and personalize services to the unique requirements of pharmaceutical customers.
Several mid-sized CMOs and CDMOs focus on certain therapeutic areas or classes of small compounds. They can become authorities in particular fields thanks to their specialist emphasis, which draws in customers seeking particular skills and knowledge. When compared to giant international firms, mid-sized businesses frequently have reduced overhead and operational costs.
Pharmaceutical firms that are looking for high-quality services at a competitive price find mid-sized companies appealing due to their cost competitiveness. Pharmaceutical clients are frequently more receptive to collaborative relationships with mid-sized CMOs and CDMOs.
Mid-sized businesses can provide a more individualized and customer-focused service compared to larger organizations. The clients frequently appreciate mid-sized CMOs and CDMOs for their attentiveness and promptness.
Market Growth Outlook by Scale of Operation
| Scale of Operation | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Clinical | 3.8% |
| Commercial | 5.6% |
Based on the scale of operation, the commercial segment is anticipated to generate significant revenue in the global small molecule CMO/CDMO market during the assessment period. It is set to expand at a high CAGR of 5.6%, totaling USD 90,027.3 million in 2034.
Several pharmaceutical companies are turning to CMOs and CDMOs to handle their manufacturing operations. This is because they look to cut expenses, concentrate on their core skills, and shorten the time it takes to create new drugs. The commercial segment's expansion has probably been aided by this tendency of outsourcing.
Since several branded drugs' patents are about to expire, there has been an increasing demand for generic medications worldwide. Commercial manufacturing operations have surged because of generic medicine makers' frequent partnerships with CMOs and CDMOs to make use of their knowledge and ability for cost-effective production.
Leading small molecule CMO/CDMO companies prioritize acquisitions and expansion as they work to create new product lines and expand their customer base. Top players are also looking to offer new services by integrating novel technologies in drug manufacturing, development, and packaging.
Recent Developments in the Small Molecule CMO/CDMO Market
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Market Size (2024) | USD 74,998.1 million |
| Projected Market Value (2034) | USD 124,532.4 million |
| Anticipated Growth Rate (2024 to 2034) | 5.2% CAGR |
| Forecast Period | 2024 to 2034 |
| Historical Data Available for | 2019 to 2023 |
| Market Analysis | USD million for Value |
| Key Regions Covered | North America; East Asia; Western Europe; Eastern Europe |
| Key Countries Covered | United States, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, BENELUX, Nordic Countries, United Kingdom, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Czech Republic. |
| Key Market Segments Covered | Product, Service, Company Size, Scale of Operation, and Region |
| Key Companies Profiled | Pfizer CentreOne; Baxter BioPharma Solutions; Catalent; Lonza; Syngene International; Boehringer Ingelheim; Piramal Pharma Solutions; Wuxi AppTec; Patheon (Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.); Adare Pharma Solutions; Ajinomoto Bio-Pharma Services; Ascendia Pharma; Asymchem; August Bioservices; Cambrex; Nanoform; PCI Pharma Services; Quotient Sciences; Societal™ CDMO; Siegfried Holding AG; Corden Pharma International |
| Report Coverage | Market Forecast, Competition Intelligence, Market Dynamics and Challenges, Strategic Growth Initiatives |
The global market value reached USD 68,455.5 million in 2023.
The market size is set to reach USD 124,532.4 million by 2034.
In 2024, the total market value is expected to reach around USD 74,998.1 million.
The target market is set to thrive at a 5.2% CAGR through 2034.
The global market exhibited a CAGR of 3.8% from 2019 to 2023.
The standard API segment held an 80.7% share of the global market in 2023.
The United States is set to experience a CAGR of 4.8% through 2034.
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Small Molecule CMO/CDMO Market
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