Softgel Encapsulation Machine Market (2025 - 2035)

Softgel Encapsulation Machine Market Size and Share Forecast Outlook (2025 to 2035)

The global softgel encapsulation machine market is estimated to reach a value of USD 111.8 million in 2024. With a strong year-on-year growth projected at 3.7%, the market is expected to grow to USD 115.9 million in 2025. This market is expected to record a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2025 to 2035, achieving a market size of USD 178.8 million by the end of 2035.

In the manufacturing of soft gelatin capsules, softgel encapsulation machines are a set piece of equipment used in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industry. These machines integrate and automate the filling and sealing processes of gelatin capsules with a liquid or semi-solid contents. In response to the growth in dietary supplements demands and improved drug delivery systems, the demand for high output and automated encapsulation devices is increasing.

As a result of the increasing adoption of softgel formulations which are favored for their superior bioavailability and patient compliance, the end use sector of the industry is mainly consolidated with pharmaceutical companies, which is the strongest segment of the market.

On the other hand, nutraceutical manufacturers play an important role as well, owing to the increasing consumer demand for vitamins, herbal extracts, and omega-3 supplements. The IADSA confirms that the worldwide market for supplements was larger than USD 170 billion at the start of 2023.

In the coming years, the growth of the Softgel Encapsulation Machine market will soar as the demand for these machines is expected to increase to 1.5 times by 2035 due to a handful of reasons. These can be attributed to the increasing pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and dietary supplement markets for omega-3, vitamins, and herbal extracts as well as the improvement in technology.

The fusion of servo controlled filling, real-time monitoring and integrated drying systems into one unit has both increased production rates, and cut back on the wastage of materials.

As the economy moves between 2023 to 2035, it can be anticipated that the softgel encapsulation machine market will flourish as the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors will boost the demand for these machines. There will be a rise in rolling Parker collar that will enhance multifunctional capabilities and scope of application.

Automation and role in drug and supplement manufacturing by improving the filling and sealing procedure is expected to drive even further innovations such as more intricate designs and encapsulation systems that will lower the production costs and material use as well.

Semi-Annual Market Update for Softgel Encapsulation Equipment

The table below presents the annual growth rates of the global softgel encapsulation machine industry from 2025 to 2035. With a base year of 2024 extending to the current year 2025, the report examines how the sector's growth trajectory evolves from the first half of the year (January to June, H1) to the second half (July to December, H2). This analysis offers stakeholders insights into the industry's performance over time, highlighting potential developments that may emerge.

These figures indicate the growth of the sector in each half year, between the years 2024 and 2025. The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% in H1-2024. In H2, the growth rate increases.

Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2025 to H2 2025, the CAGR is projected to slightly decrease to 4.1% in the first half and relatively increase to 4.6% in the second half. In the first half (H1), the sector saw an increase of 20 BPS while in the second half (H2), there was a slight increase of 20 BPS.

Category-wise Insights in the Pharmaceutical Encapsulation Equipment Market

The section explains the growth trends of the leading segments in the industry. In terms of Level of Automation, the Fully Automatic Softgel will likely disseminate and generate a share of around 86.6% in 2035.

Based on Output, the Automatic Transmission segment is projected to hold a share of 56.5% in 2025. The analysis would enable potential clients to make effective business decisions for investment purposes.

Rapid Adoption of Fully Automatic Softgel Encapsulation Machines to Drive Market Growth

The demand for fully automatic softgel encapsulation machines is set to surge, with this segment expected to capture over 86.6% of the global market share by 2032. These machines offer superior efficiency, lower energy consumption, and reduced labor dependency, making them the preferred choice for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturers. Equipped with advanced features such as touch-screen interfaces, microcomputer-programmable controllers, frequency conversion speed control, and electronic automatic counting mechanisms, fully automatic machines ensure precision and consistency in capsule production.

These fully automatic softgel encapsulation machines are designed to enhance productivity by reducing manual labor, improving operational efficiency, and lowering energy consumption. These machines operate with a high degree of automation, minimizing human intervention and reducing the risk of errors, which is critical in pharmaceutical production where precision and consistency are paramount.

Growing Demand for High-Efficiency Softgel Machines Drives Adoption of 25,000 to 50,000 Output Per Hour Models

The rising demand for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical softgel capsules is driving the adoption of high-efficiency encapsulation machines with an output capacity of 25,000 to 50,000 softgels per hour. These machines are expected to generate an absolute dollar opportunity of USD 15.5 million between 2025 and 2035, as manufacturers seek solutions that balance productivity, precision, and operational stability.

Efficiency is a critical factor in softgel production, as pharmaceutical companies strive to meet increasing consumer demand while maintaining stringent quality standards. Machines with an output of 25,000–50,000 softgels per hour offer an optimal balance between high production rates and consistent quality control, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operations. These models are particularly beneficial for manufacturers looking to scale up production without excessive energy consumption or downtime.

Key Highlights in the Softgel Encapsulation Machine Industry

Rising Demand for Nutraceutical and Pharmaceutical Softgels Driving Market Growth

The market is impacted positively by the softgel capsule encapsulation, which is estimated to enjoy higher growth in the pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals sectors. Softgels capsules provide enhanced bioavailability, have an easier swallowability and better shelf life in comparison to other forms of solid dose formulations.

There has been a noticeable trend in the industry whereby soft gel formulations are now starting to replace other liquid forms of pain relief medication, some hormonal therapy and even some oncology drugs. The soft gel forms of vitamins, omega 3 fatty acids, herbal supplements are in increasing demand to cater for the nutritional need of the changing global market.

As a result of the changes in the pharmaceutical regulations and the new trends in the Europe and the US, these markets remain strong. On the other side, the Asia Pacific seen from the perspective of India and China relocating even fast on the back of growing investment in pharmaceutical production and CDMO.

Production of Tamper-proof Capsules to Boost Sales of Softgel Filling Machines

The global market of softgel encapsulation machine is expected to trade in the upward direction against the back drop of rising demand for softgel capsules that are tamper-proof in nature. Evolution in the world towards greater global population and increasing global attention shifting to protection of patients are marketing the pharmaceutical industry set its attending on safe drug delivery systems.

The continents distributing various pharmaceutical products tends to make an increased use of softgel which surrounds a liquid substance with a gelatin shell as it protects the drug from getting contaminated, being Potently used in the encapsulation for various such as softgel capsules, biopharmaceuticals and dietary supplements.

Due to this, a substantial increase in demand for advanced softgel encapsulation machines has been experienced, which further drives the growth in the global softgel encapsulation machine market.

Regulatory specifications and directives introducing product safety measures have strengthened the use of safe soft gel capsules sealing. Increasing regulations and norm by FDA and NMPA of China are requiring producers to invest into encapsulation methods.

The Growing trends and preferences of the pharmaceutical market to shift towards the use liquid-filled softgels brought by the best solution for controlled-release and high dose drugs makes and promises a much larger demand for encapsulated machines.

The expansion of healthcare infrastructure across emerging economies such as India, Brazil, and Indonesia is creating lucrative opportunities for softgel encapsulation machine manufacturers. The rapid growth of pharmaceutical contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs) in these regions is expected to further boost sales of advanced encapsulation machines.

Automation and Technological Advancements Boosting Market Expansion

The market for softgel encapsulation machines is changing owing to technological innovation and automation. Automated high-speed encapsulation machines are gradually taking the place of batch processing, allowing for less manual labor, greater accuracy and improved efficiency, among other benefits.

CapPlus Technologies has also launched automated machines with servo-controlled filling systems as well as real-time monitoring devices to enhance accuracy and minimize material usage. Their systems are also further advanced by having drying devices inbuilt to enhance throughput and efficiency within the plant.

Technophar has advanced greatly by developing a fully robotic softgel encapsulation machine that they say will stretch the operational period and lower the operational costs. This has improved the production output and cost effectiveness because maintenance is kept to a minimal level making the idea especially desirable for the production of drugs and pharmaceutical goods in bulk..

Increasing Demand for Customizable and Specialized Encapsulation Machines

As softgel encapsulation manufacturers attempt to shift their focus to customizing supplement types and characteristics, there is already an increasing demand for customized supplements and medicine out there, and one can only presume that the demand will increase further in the years to come. Such capsules would likely cater to health driven individuals by offering options like vegetarian or starch based capsules, giving consumers more variety to choose from.

GIC Engineering has initiated the process of producing advanced encapsulation techniques that will be focused towards herbal oriented supplements and plant based supplements. There is a growing demand for nutraceuticals in the wellness market and these advanced stalk encapsulating machines would be required as they specialize in manufacturing natural ingredients.

In markets such as the CBD and sports nutrition supplements, the demand for machines that are comprehensive in nature and can be customized as per the needs, is present as well. Due to this demand, manufacturers are working towards producing multi-sided machines that are easy to upgrade ensuring that different formats can easily be incorporated. Being able to accommodate various formulations can guarantee that manufacturers would be able to keep up with changing consumer trends.

Comparison of Sales Outlook (2020 to 2024) vs Demand Forecast to 2035

From 2020 to 2024, the global softgel encapsulation machine market saw steady growth, driven by several key factors. Technological advancements in automation played a significant role, with high-speed, automated machines replacing traditional batch processing, improving efficiency and precision.

These machines, equipped with features like servo-controlled filling, integrated drying systems, and real-time monitoring, allowed manufacturers to increase production capacity and reduce downtime. The rise in demand for nutraceuticals and personalized medicine further fueled the market, particularly as consumers sought customized supplements, such as CBD-infused and plant-based softgels.

Additionally, the growing trend of personalized health solutions led to a need for flexible machines that could handle various capsule sizes and formulations.

Looking ahead to the period between 2025 and 2035, the market is expected to continue expanding but at an even faster pace. The demand for softgel encapsulation machines will likely be bolstered by increasing consumer awareness of health and wellness, along with the growing trend of plant-based and specialized supplements.

Technological innovation, including advancements in 3D printing and AI-powered systems for personalized medicine, will further boost machine sales by enabling greater customization and precision. Additionally, as the global pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries scale up, the need for large-scale production capabilities and efficient, automated processes will drive demand for high-capacity, flexible softgel encapsulation machines.

Market Concentration in the Softgel Manufacturing Machinery Market

Tier 1 companies include industry leaders with annual revenues exceeding USD 4 million. These companies are currently capturing a significant share of 30% to 35%. These frontrunners are characterized by high production capacity and a wide product portfolio. They are distinguished by extensive expertise in manufacturing and a broad geographical reach, underpinned by a robust consumer base. The firms provide a wide range of products and utilize the latest technology to meet regulatory standards. Prominent companies within this tier I players include ACIC Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA Pharmaceutical Equipment, CapPlus Technologies, United Pharmatek Joysun Mech-Tech and Others..

Tier 2 companies encompass most of the small-scale enterprises operating within the regional sphere and catering to specialized needs with revenues between USD 2 to 4 million. These businesses are notably focused on meeting local demand and are hence categorized within the Tier 2 segment. They are small-scale participants with limited geographical presence. In this context, Tier 2 is acknowledged as an informal sector, indicating a segment distinguished by a lack of extensive organization and formal structure in comparison to the structured one. Tier II Players such as Volks Vita, Changsung Softgel System Ltd., ACG World, Qualia’s And others have been considered in this tier where they are projected to account for 25 to 30% of the overall market.

Tier 3 includes the majority of small-scale companies operating at the local presence and serving niche having revenue below USD 2 million. These companies are notably oriented towards fulfilling local demands and are consequently classified within the tier 3 share segment. They are small-scale players and have limited geographical reach. The manufacturers such as Tier III Players such as Kamata Machine Co., Ltd.; Beijing Xin Hang Cheng Technology Development Co., Ltd. Hedagel, and others are expected to hold 40-45% of the share.

Country-wise Insights in the Softgel Machine Sector

The below table shows the estimated growth rates of the top three countries. India, China, and Japan are set to record higher CAGRs of 6.1%, 5.7%, and 5.1% respectively, through 2035.

Demand for Drugs for Cancer Treatment to Push Sales of Soft Gelatin Capsule Machines in Germany

The Germany softgel encapsulation machine is poised to exhibit a CAGR of 5.1% during the assessment period. It is expected to attain a valuation of USD 9.4 Million by 2035.

Germany is one of the leading countries in Europe that have the maximum number of patent applications, which are focused on a novel drug production system. The number of pharmaceutical patent applications increased by 4.4% in 2020, according to the data provided by the European Patent Office (EPO) 2021 Patent Index.

Germany is also the top country for cancer treatment in the Europe region. Softgel encapsulation machines are used in the production of chitosan-alginate BSA-gel-capsules, which are utilized after the treatment of local chemotherapy.

Research initiatives of the pharmaceutical industry in the country are set to lead to the introduction of new drugs for various health treatments against different types of viruses. Ongoing research initiatives in the pharmaceutical industry are expected to lead to the development of new treatments for various health conditions, further boosting demand for softgel encapsulation machines in the country.

The rapid expansion of Germany's healthcare sector is expected to provide lucrative opportunities for machine manufacturers during the forecast period.

High Demand for Good Quality Medicines in China to Propel Sales of Soft Gelatin Encapsulation Machines

China is anticipated to hold around 4.8% CAGR in the East Asia softgel encapsulation machine market. China is the most populous nation globally, and with the rising population, there is more demand for medical products in the country. China is also considered to be the second-largest pharmaceutical market in the world after the USA. China is well-positioned to be a major player in the softgel encapsulation machine market. As the world's second-largest pharmaceutical market, China is expected to continue expanding, driven by the healthcare needs of its aging population.

The rapidly growing aging population and consequent rise in terms of medical product demand would offer a large number of opportunities for key players present in the Chinese pharmaceutical industry. This would further increase sales of softgel encapsulation machines in the country, which will be beneficial for growth in the softgel encapsulation machine market.

Sales of softgel encapsulation machine in china are projected to soar at a CAGR of around 5.7% during the assessment period. The total valuation in the country is anticipated to reach USD 33.1 Million by 2035.

Export of Advanced Medicines from the USA to Drive Demand for Softgel Machines

The USA softgel encapsulation machine size is projected to reach USD 29.8 Million by 2035. Over the assessment period, Softgel Encapsulation Machine in the United Kingdom is set to rise at 4.2% CAGR

Over the forecast period, the softgel encapsulation machine market in the USA is projected to create an incremental opportunity of nearly USD 9.4 Million. The country has some of the biggest pharma companies in the world, and the majority of the advanced pharmaceutical products in the world are manufactured & exported by the country’s pharmaceutical sector. The country is already witnessing high demand for softgel encapsulation machines from other parts of the world, which is likely to push the USA market.

The continued export of advanced medicines and the increasing demand for softgel products in both domestic and international markets make the USA a key player in the softgel encapsulation machine market.

Competitive Outlook of the Softgel Machine Industry

The section provides comprehensive assessments and insights that highlight current opportunities and emerging trends for companies in developed and developing countries. It analyzes advancements in manufacturing and identifies the latest trends poised to drive new applications in the.

A few key players in the Softgel Encapsulation Machine are actively enhancing capabilities and resources to cater to the growing demand for the compound across diverse applications. Leading companies also leverage partnership and joint venture strategies to co-develop innovative products and bolster resource base.

Significant players are further introducing new products to address the increasing need for cutting-edge solutions in various end-use sectors. Geographic expansion is another important strategy that is being embraced by reputed companies. Start-ups are likely to emerge in the sector through 2035, thereby making it more competitive.

Key companies are investing in continuous research for producing new products and increasing their production capacity to meet end-user demand. They are also showing an inclination toward adopting strategies, including acquisitions, partnerships, mergers, and facility expansions to strengthen their footprint.

Recent Industry Developments in the Softgel Equipment Segment

• In May 2024, CVC introduced its latest innovations the Softgel Encapsulation System and the CVC High-Speed Counting Line with CVC625-at the 2024 CVC New Product Launch event. This unveiling marked a significant advancement in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturing, highlighting CVC’s commitment to efficiency and precision.
• In December 2023, Technophar introduced a next-generation fully automated softgel encapsulation machine with higher production capacity and integrated drying systems. This machine minimizes downtime, reduces operational costs, and enhances precision, making it ideal for large-scale pharmaceutical and nutraceutical production.
• In March 2023, CVC Technologies announced the acquisition of Changsung Softgel System, strengthening its position as a leading global provider of packaging and encapsulation machinery. This strategic acquisition aligns with CVC Technologies’ long-term business objectives by integrating Changsung’s expertise in softgel encapsulation with CVC’s advanced packaging solutions.

Leading Softgel Encapsulation Machine Brands Worldwide

• ACIC Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• USA Pharmaceutical Equipment
• CapPlus Technologies
• United Pharmatek
• Joysun Mech-Tech
• Volks Vita
• Changsung Softgel System Ltd.
• ACG World
• Qualicaps;
• Kamata Machine Co., Ltd.;
• Beijing Xin Hang Cheng Technology Development Co., Ltd.

Top Segments Studied in the Softgel Encapsulation Machine Market

By Level of Automation:

Material Type included in the study are Semi-Automatic and Fully Automatic.

By Type:

Type included in the study are Paintball Encapsulation Machine, and Oil-Softgel Encapsulation Machine.

By Output:

The Output included in the study are Up to 15,000 Softgel /hour, 15,000 to 25,000 Softgel /hour, 25,000 to 50,000 Softgel /hour, 50,000 to 75,000 Softgel /hour, and More than 75,000 Softgel /hour.

By Region:

The report covers key regions, including North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA).