Sterilization Equipment Market

Sterilization Equipment Market Size and Share:

The global sterilization equipment market size was valued at USD 16.3 Billion in 2024. According to the IMARC Group, the market will reach USD 31.4 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.58% from 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 36.7% in 2024. The market across the region is expanding with the increasing number of hospital-acquired infections and surgical procedures, stringent health policies and awareness about infection control and advancements and upgradations in sterilization equipment.

The increasing awareness about infection control in healthcare facilities and industries related to food, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology is expected to boost the demand for sterilization equipment. Healthcare providers are now focusing on improved sterilization techniques to ensure patient safety and meet stringent regulations. Advanced technology is upgrading the efficiency and usability of sterilization equipment, including low-temperature sterilizers and automated systems. These innovations serve the evolving needs of healthcare and industrial users, ensuring higher reliability and throughput. Expansion of the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors also plays a critical role as these industries need to ensure that products are made in sterile environments before packaging. This ongoing interest in single-use medical devices also necessitates the need for effective sterilization to maintain safety. Global health emergencies have amplified the need for robust sterilization solutions to curb pathogen transmission, further accelerating market growth. This combination of factors ensures a steady demand for sterilization equipment across diverse applications.

The United States has emerged as a key regional market for sterilization equipment. The growing number of hospital-acquired infections in the United States and increased concern over infection control are key drivers for sterilization equipment demand. The need to meet the new requirements has brought into hospitals advanced sterilization technologies for both the better and worse of healthcare facilities. Further fueling the market is the growth of the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. In these industries, manufacturers must strictly adhere to sterilization procedures while producing and packaging. Innovations such as low-temperature and automated sterilization systems are growing rapidly as they are efficient and handle various applications. Global health crises have increased the awareness about disinfection and sterilization and thus increased investment in solutions that are reliable. The US market continues to see steady sterilization equipment market growth due to a strong focus on safety and technological advancement.

Sterilization Equipment Market Trends:

Integration of NO2 in sterilization

Nitrogen dioxide, NO2 gas, is powerful and fast against many groups of microbes. NO2 gas is used in place for sterilizing sealed environments by high pressures and high temperatures. They have certain advantageous properties such as minimized pressure requirements, short sterilization cycle times (2 to 4 hr), extremely low temperature (< or = 10° and +30°C), and negligible cytotoxic residues. Of the 216 countries classified by income levels by the World Bank, 123 (56.9%) reported surgical volume data by 2023, reflecting the growing need for advanced sterilization methods. This has driven rising demand for NO₂ sterilization, valued for its efficiency, rapid cycles, and precision in ensuring patient safety. NO2 sterilization is used only in prefilled syringe sterilization, customized implants, and drug-device combo product sterilization. According to sterilization equipment market analysis, this trend opens new avenues for innovation in the market landscape, driven by the need to enhance patient safety, optimize efficiency, and reduce production costs.

Technological advancements

Low-temperature sterilization methods, including plasma sterilization and ethylene oxide (EO) gas sterilization, are increasingly used for sterilizing heat-sensitive medical devices. Moreover, automation and robotics within sterilization enhance efficiency and minimize human error with higher safety standards. Utilizing IoT-based sterilization appliances for the monitoring and regulation of sterilization procedures while optimizing equipment performance with compliance with regulations. HAIs occur in 7 out of every 100 patients in high-income countries and 15 out of every 100 in low- and middle-income countries. On average, 1 in 10 patients with an HAI will die, thus underlining the imperative need for advanced sterilization methods to enhance patient safety. These technological developments are now giving new scopes of expansion in the market.

Rising Demand for Portable Solutions

The sterilization equipment market is the increasing demand for portable and flexible solutions. These portable sterilizers are gaining many positives regarding their use to meet demand by small health facilities, research laboratories, and even some mobile clinics. World Bank data, by 2050, a doubling of the global aging population aged 65 or older means that healthcare systems will be severely strained and chronic disease prevalence will increase. These changes spurred the need for solutions at small health facilities and mobile clinics to meet the needs of elderly populations. In addition, the trend in sterilization equipment toward modular design allows for greater flexibility in adapting to different sterilization requirements. It makes it easier to perform maintenance and upgrades and ensures that equipment is kept current with changing industry standards. Increasingly, the focus on customized options also means that sterilization equipment can be designed to meet the specific needs of different healthcare settings and industries, thereby increasing their overall efficiency and effectiveness.

Sterilization Equipment Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global sterilization equipment market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on product and end user.

Analysis by Product:

• Heat Sterilizers
  • Depyrogenation Oven
  • Steam Autoclaves
• Low-temperature Sterilizers
  • Ethylene Oxide Sterilizers
  • Hydrogen Peroxide Sterilizers
  • Others
• Sterile Membrane Filters
• Radiation Sterilization Devices
  • Electron Beams
  • Gamma Rays
  • Others
     

In 2024, low-temperature sterilizers lead the product segment with a share of 34.7% due to their ability to sterilize delicate medical instruments sensitive to heat. Specialized sterilization processes that do not damage materials are required for instruments with intricate designs, such as endoscopes and advanced surgical tools. EO and hydrogen peroxide gas plasma systems are the most preferred technologies, with high efficiency and versatility. The increasing adoption of advanced surgical techniques, such as robotic-assisted surgeries, increases demand further, as these sterilizers ensure that precision instruments are safe to use. Manufacturers are introducing innovative products such as energy-efficient designs and compact designs suitable for use in high-demand settings. Sustainability, through reduced emissions and safer sterilization agents, is also gaining ground to solidify its position further in the market.

Analysis by End user:

• Hospitals and Clinics
• Medical Device Companies
• Pharmaceutical Companies
• Food and Beverages Industry
• Others
   

Hospitals and clinics are the largest end-users, with a 38.7% market share in 2024. Hospitals and clinics hold the biggest sterilization equipment market share, primarily due to the increased surgical procedures as well as the growing incidence of hospital-acquired infections. There is always a constant requirement for sterilization equipment for healthcare facilities in light of rigorous infection control and patient safety standards. In addition, advanced sterilization systems ensure the increased application of single-use and reusable medical devices. Investments in modern health infrastructure, particularly in regions that emphasize improving the quality of patient care, also contribute significantly to this sector's growth. Increasing demand for autoclave-based sterilization systems with automated and user-friendly features makes hospitals and clinics the biggest market drivers.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

North America dominated the sterilization equipment market in 2024, accounting for over 36.7% of the market share. The region enjoys leadership due to the strong demand for sophisticated and innovative sterilization technologies, supported by well-developed healthcare infrastructure and severe infection control regulations. North America also enjoys the strength of the presence of key market players, which are keen on investing heavily in research and development to come up with novel solutions. These companies focus on improving efficiency, safety, and sustainability in sterilization, hence ensuring that their products remain up to the changing times of the industry. With low-temperature sterilizers and automated systems being embraced by hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies, the market is further boosted. Patient safety and infection prevention drive North America's healthcare sector to invest in the best sterilization equipment. Thirdly, the rising need for sterile conditions in expanding medical device and pharmaceutical industries drives further growth of the market. Besides healthcare, other sectors, such as food and beverages, also adopt sterilization equipment for compliance with regulations and to guarantee safe products. This regional trend includes increasing concern by consumers and industry players alike for more environmentally friendly methods of sterilization, as well as embracing leading-edge digital technologies such as sterilizers-enabled Internet of Things.

The Asia Pacific region's sterilization equipment market is driven by the rapid expansion of healthcare infrastructure and increasing awareness about infection control measures. Rising medical tourism in countries like India and Thailand amplifies the need for advanced sterilization technologies. Additionally, the growth of pharmaceutical and medical device industries in China and Japan supports demand. Government initiatives to improve healthcare standards and the adoption of cutting-edge sterilization equipment by hospitals and clinics further propel the market.

Stronger regulatory environments in Europe focus on infection prevention and sterilization practices. More and more technologically advanced apparatus used in Germany, France, and the UK ensures significant growth. The key vendors are present in this region along with huge investment made in healthcare infrastructure leads to the adoption of state-of-the-art sterilization techniques. Moreover, energy consumption-efficient sterilization system supports the growth of eco-friendly technology in this region.

In Latin America, market drivers include the growing need for modern healthcare facilities and increasing awareness about infection prevention. Brazil and Mexico are experiencing a rise in demand for sterilization equipment as their medical sectors expand. Government investment in public healthcare and partnerships with global manufacturers to bring in new solutions are the other growth factors.

Expansion of health infrastructure, especially in GCC countries, drives the market for the Middle East and Africa region. Investment in medical tourism, as well as building world-class hospitals, are further contributing to the demand for sterilizers. The region also sees increased awareness regarding infection prevention measures as well as international collaborations in place to achieve global standards of sterilization.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Sterilization Equipment Market Analysis

In 2024, the United States accounts for a share of 82.60% of jojoba oil market in North America. Population aging, coupled with the sedentary lifestyle factor, has led to an increase in the number of patients requiring surgical intervention, which in turn increases the number of surgeries performed in the United States of America. In addition, the rise in the rates of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs)- like urinary tract infections caused by catheters (UAIs), infections of the bloodstream linked to central lines (CLABSI), and pneumonia associated with the hospital that is not related to ventilation (NV-HAP) has increased the demand for sterilization devices. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 30,100 CLABSI statistics are noted on an annual basis in the wards and ICUs of hospitals in the United States. Moreover, the industry players are paying much attention to the development and launch of new sterilization devices. In June 2024, Getinge introduced a new product to the market, Poladus 150, which is a low-temperature sterilizer using vaporized hydrogen peroxide and operating at 55 degrees Celsius. The surging demand for sterilizers in the reduction of HAIs and safe practice for patients will enable the market to grow at its highest rate in terms of CAGR throughout the forecast period, with hospitals and specialty clinics leading the charge during 2023.

Europe Sterilization Equipment Market Analysis

The European sterilization equipment market is mainly driven by supporting government regulations and strict standards that encourage the use of advanced sterilization solutions. For instance, the MDR requires manufacturers to design devices that minimize infection risks and prevent microbial contamination, including in fluids. On the other hand, a European standard, EN 556-1, defines the criteria for certifying devices as sterile after terminal sterilization. This standard has also been adopted by several countries outside of Europe, which is increasing global demand for sterilization equipment and boosting market growth. The UK and Germany play a significant role in the region's expansion, driven by technological advancements and the enforcement of strict regulatory guidelines. Together, these factors help reinforce Europe's leadership in sterilization innovation and adoption.  

Asia Pacific Sterilization Equipment Market Analysis

The Asia-Pacific sterilizing equipment market is growing rapidly with increasing medical tourism, improved healthcare infrastructure, and better disease awareness. The other key driver is the growth of the food and beverage sector and industrial facility development by foreign corporations. China, Japan, India, and other nations are driving this growth. An industrial report shows that the food, beverage, and tobacco industries in the region are predicted to expand between 2021 and 2030 by more than USD 1 Billion up to USD 5.1 Billion. The most significant driver of this growth is the expansion of middle-class size and the subsequent increased demand for animal proteins like meat, fish, and dairy. In Japan, much of the medical equipment is sterilized internally using advanced techniques such as electric beam radiation and ethylene oxide chambers. In China, the outsourcing of medical products has increased the demand for radiation sterilization. All these factors are contributing to the growing adoption of sterilization equipment, driving the market's expansion across Asia-Pacific.   

Latin America Sterilization Equipment Market Analysis

The market for sterilization equipment in Latin America is poised to expand significantly on the back of several factors. The rising incidence of hospital-acquired infections makes it clear that effective sterilizing methods are in high demand in healthcare facilities. At the same time, the region has witnessed growth in pharmaceutical and medical device companies, thereby increasing the need for sterilizing equipment to meet safety and regulatory requirements. The number of surgeries that have been done in Latin America is also driving market growth. An industrial report revealed that Brazil led in cosmetic surgeries within the region, with more than 2.1 Million procedures conducted in 2023. A total of 932,000 surgical procedures were recorded in Mexico and above 475,000 in Argentina. Colombia was recorded with a total of 270,000 surgical procedures. All this indicates the crucial role of sterilization instruments in the prevention of cross-infection in and post-surgery. Government initiatives to maintain high levels of sterilization in hospitals and research facilities, in addition to the advancement in sterilization technology, are strengthening the market. Harsh regulations on infection control and growing investments in health infrastructure are expected to encourage the adoption of advanced sterilization solutions, which in turn will help the market grow.   

Middle East and Africa Sterilization Equipment Market Analysis

The sterilizing equipment market is witnessing rapid growth across the Middle East and Africa. Increasing pharmaceutical companies, increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, growing population, and increased demand from the food and beverage industry are the contributing factors in the region. With the implementation of stringent regulations on the usage of medical devices, the need for sterilization has become all the more essential. In the coming years, an increase in the elderly population in the United Arab Emirates will lead to a higher incidence of chronic diseases, which will further increase the demand for healthcare services. The health sector in the UAE is further enhanced by its ranking as one of the top 20 medical tourism destinations globally. A major factor contributing to the demand for advanced sterilization technologies in the country is the high number of C-section procedures considered to be risky. SSI after C-section procedures can lead to increased morbidity among mothers and a longer hospital stay. All these factors highlight the increased need for effective sterilizers to reduce infection risks, which consequently fuels the growth of the sterilization equipment market in this region.

Competitive Landscape:

Market players in the sterilization equipment sector are actively enhancing their portfolios through innovation, acquisitions and partnerships to strengthen their market presence. Many major companies are looking toward designing advanced sterilization processes for low-temperature or auto-powered equipment to meet the emergent requirements of effective and time-effective sterilization. Advances in research and development propel more eco-friendly solutions including solutions powered with hydrogen peroxide and ozone sterilizers. Collaborations with healthcare providers and industrial clients allow manufacturers to design customized equipment to meet specific requirements, thereby improving user satisfaction. Key players are also expanding their global footprint through acquisitions and joint ventures, targeting emerging markets with rapidly growing healthcare and industrial sectors. Other areas of focus include digital integration, like IoT-enabled sterilizers, for real-time monitoring and improvement in operational efficiency. In addition, companies are building up after-sales support through maintenance services and training programs to ensure optimal utilization of equipment.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the sterilization equipment market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Belimed AG (Metall Zug)
• Cantel Medical Corp
• E-BEAM Services Inc.
• Fortive Corporation
• Getinge AB
• H.W.Andersen Products Ltd.
• Matachana Group
• MMM Group
• Sotera Health Company
• STERIS plc
• Stryker Corporation
• Systec GmbH
   

Kindly note that this only represents a partial list of companies, and the complete list has been provided in the report.

Latest News and Developments:

• October 2024: Eppendorf launched the CellXpert CS220, the first CO₂ incubator shaker with integrated 180°C sterilization. This innovation enhances contamination prevention standards in mammalian cell cultivation, ensuring cleaner and more efficient shake flask cultures. The product also offers higher flask capacity and an optimized design for advanced cell culture applications.
• April 2024: SIG introduced the SIG Prime 55 In-Line Aseptic filling machine for spouted aseptic pouches. This innovation allows in-line sterilization, eliminating the need for pre-sterilized pouches, simplifying the supply chain, and reducing production costs. It aims to enhance the production of aseptic food products like purees and sauces, ensuring quality and convenience.
• March 2024: Syntegon introduced the SBM Essential Line sterilizers, offering modular vacuum-steam, steam-air mixture, and combined sterilization processes for versatile pharmaceutical applications. These sterilizers ensure compliance with Annex 1 through automated air detection and are available in 12 sizes, providing efficient, safe, and flexible solutions with shorter delivery times.
• March 2024: Steris launched Verafit Sterilization Bags and Covers, designed to meet EU GMP Annex 1 compliance by incorporating a patent-pending viewing window for visual dryness confirmation after sterilization. The bags utilize Purefit™ material to minimize particulate, microbial, and chemical contamination, aiding biopharmaceutical manufacturers in maintaining sterility standards. This innovation enhances the usability and reliability of sterilization wrapping solutions.
• March 2024: Getinge has launched Poladus 150, which is the latest innovation by Getinge in low-temperature sterilization. This equipment is designed for heat-sensitive surgical tools. The Poladus 150 is equipped with the latest cross-contamination barrier technology and is crucial for combating hospital-acquired infections.

Sterilization Equipment Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the sterilization equipment market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global sterilization equipment market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the sterilization equipment industry and its attractiveness.
• competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.