Forensic Imaging Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Modality (X-ray, CT), By Application (Death Investigations), By End-use (Forensic Institutes, Hospitals), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Forensic Imaging Market Size & Trends

The global forensic imaging market size was valued at USD 93.2 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.5% from 2025 to 2030. Increasing preference for virtopsy or virtual autopsy over traditional autopsy method is one of the major drivers for the market growth. In addition, increasing awareness regarding the value of virtual autopsy as an alternative or supplement to the traditional “body opening” autopsy has boosted the market growth. Furthermore, integration with artificial intelligence and expanding applications of the imaging modalities in the identification of the deceased and matching of severed body parts is expected to open new avenues of market growth.

Forensic imaging is the process of producing an exact, copy of digital storage media, such as hard drives or flash drives, to preserve its contents for analysis in criminal investigations. This technique ensures that all data, including deleted files and unallocated space, is captured without altering the original evidence. Forensic imaging is critical in maintaining data integrity, allowing investigators to analyze the copied information while safeguarding the original device from potential changes or damage.

Minimally invasive nature of virtual autopsies is attracting large number of professionals towards choosing it over conventional method. The procedure involves use of advanced radiological assistance such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to scan the body of deceased. It is believed to deliver better insights than conventional autopsies that are specific, sensitive, and accurate. In addition, when the risk of infections or contaminations is identified as high, professionals opt of virtual autopsy process. Easy access and availability of imaging technology is developed economies, enhanced healthcare infrastructures, and increasing number of pathological postmortems are expected to drive growth for this market in coming years.

The increasing preference for virtual autopsy in judiciary systems is anticipated to expand the use of the forensic imaging modalities. At times, the photo evidence developed from a traditional autopsy procedure is very disturbing and gruesome for lay viewers, thus impeding its acceptability in court proceedings. In such cases, 3D reconstructed images with necessary markings developed through the usage of modern imaging technologies are more palatable and appreciated by judges. Moreover, the digitalization of the evidence enables data storage and prevents its vulnerability towards tampering. The increasing global crime rate, lack of human resources in medical examiner offices, and the advent of advanced technology are the factors expected to drive the growth of the market.

Modality Insights

Computed tomography (CT) dominated the market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 48.4% in 2024. A postmortem CT examination can more precisely locate lesions and fractures in complex regions such as the spine, neck, face, and pelvis of the corpse, compared to traditional autopsy. In addition, the practice of CT examination prior autopsy to narrow down the autopsy scope is getting wider acceptance owing to the cost and time benefits. For instance, if a CT scan signifies that a car accident victim died due to head trauma and has a normal pelvis and abdomen, then the autopsy would be limited to the head region.

MRI is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.5% over the forecast period. An MRI is often recommended as an adjunct to CT scans due to its ability to deliver excellent soft tissue contrast images of the neurological tissue such as the brain and spine. Moreover, limitations such as single body part scan at a time and requirement of specific body conditions have kept the utilization rate of MRI in forensic imaging low.

End-use Insights

Forensic institutes led the global forensic imaging industry and accounted for the largest revenue share of 62.8%in 2024. Multiple forensic institutes across the world are increasingly engaged in research activities related to the use of forensic imaging in numerous applications. This has resulted in a growing number of installations of forensic imaging systems. The Victoria Institute of Pathology Sydney and Institute of Forensic Medicine Denmark have already installed CT scanners for forensic imaging purposes.

The hospital segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.0% from 2025 to 2030. Hospitals are equipped with all specific requirements such as floor space, technical staff, capital, pathologist, and radiologist for performing a virtual autopsy under one roof. In addition, problems such as cost, risk, and time associated with the transfer of corpse to forensic institutes for the investigation will lead to an increase in the adoption of forensic imaging tools in hospitals over the forecast years.

Application Insights

The death investigations held the dominant position in the market with the highest revenue share of 75.6% in 2024. This growth can be attributed to the increasing number of unnatural deaths such as suicide, murders, and accidental trauma. In addition, strong evidence requirement by the court, underlying the exact cause of death in cases lacking proper eyewitness, has fueled the utilization of virtual autopsy. Furthermore, rising crime rates and the demand for advanced imaging technologies enhance the need for accurate and reliable forensic evidence, fostering greater investment in this field.

The clinical studies segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR of 11.3% over the forecast period. This segment is primarily driven by using forensic imaging technology in research centers, organ donor’s examinations, criminal investigations for academic purposes, and more. In addition, significant discoveries related to newly identified diseases and infections are expected to develop lucrative opportunities for the segment. Furthermore, government initiatives aimed at enhancing forensic research capabilities are boosting interest in clinical applications, facilitating better outcomes in medical investigations.

Regional Insights

Europe forensic imaging market dominated the global market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 34.2% in 2024. This growth can be attributed to the early adoption of advanced imaging technologies in forensic investigations. In addition, countries such as the UK, Germany, and France are leading this trend by investing in digital forensic capabilities and enhancing their infrastructure. Furthermore, strong regulatory support and collaboration among European nations for crime investigations further drive market expansion. Moreover, the increasing demand for high-quality forensic processes, coupled with government initiatives to improve forensic science training, is also contributing to this growth.

UK Forensic Imaging Market Trends

The forensic imaging market in the UK led the European market and accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024, primarily driven by a significant focus on improving investigative techniques and outcomes. The country has been at the forefront of integrating advanced imaging technologies into law enforcement practices. In addition, increased funding for forensic research and development, along with a growing emphasis on non-invasive methods such as virtual autopsies, is enhancing the effectiveness of death investigations. Furthermore, ongoing training programs for forensic professionals are ensuring that they are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge in imaging technology.

Asia Pacific Forensic Imaging Market Trends

The Asia Pacific forensic imaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.6% over the forecast period, owing to increasing inclination towards virtual autopsies over conventional autopsies, availability of advanced imaging equipment in the region, less distressing procedural steps and enhancement in healthcare infrastructure. In addition, government initiatives aimed at upgrading forensic infrastructure and technology are critical drivers of this growth. Furthermore, increasing public awareness regarding the importance of forensic science in criminal investigations is prompting greater adoption of advanced imaging solutions across the region.

The forensic imaging market in Japan dominated the Asia Pacific market and accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024, driven by a strong emphasis on technological innovation within law enforcement agencies. In addition, as public safety concerns rise, there is a growing demand for precise and reliable forensic tools. Furthermore, collaborations between academic institutions and law enforcement agencies are fostering research and development efforts that enhance forensic imaging capabilities in the country.

North America Forensic Imaging Market Trends

North America forensic imaging market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period driven by rising rate of criminal activities, rapidly growing number of traumatic deaths, and increasing inclusion of forensic imaging in virtual autopsies. In addition, the U.S. leads this segment due to its well-established legal framework and robust healthcare infrastructure that supports forensic investigations. Furthermore, the ongoing transition from coroner systems to medical examiner systems is increasing the demand for sophisticated imaging solutions to handle complex cases efficiently. Moreover, strong participation from key industry players ensures continuous innovation within the market.

The forensic imaging market in the U.S. dominated the North American market with the highest revenue share in 2024. The U.S. is expected to show huge demand for additional pathologists at autopsy examiner centers in the coming years to cope with the heavy workload. This is anticipated to increase the adoption of advanced imaging technologies in autopsy centers, which, in turn, will help them to lower the number of unnecessary autopsies performed.

Key Forensic Imaging Company Insights

Key players in the global forensic imaging industry include Neusoft Corporation, FUJIFILM, Hitachi, Ltd., and others. These companies are adopting various strategies to enhance their competitive edge. These include investing in research and development to innovate advanced imaging technologies, forming strategic partnerships to expand market reach, and focusing on mergers and acquisitions to consolidate their positions. In addition, companies are prioritizing product launches that address specific forensic needs, while also enhancing customer engagement through targeted marketing initiatives.

• Neusoft Corporation provides a range of products that support forensic imaging applications. Their offerings include intelligent PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), RIS (Radiology Information System), and various imaging systems such as CT, MRI, and ultrasound. Neusoft operates in segments such as healthcare IT, medical imaging, and diagnostic solutions, focusing on integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI and big data to enhance diagnostic accuracy and workflow efficiency in forensic investigations.

• Shimadzu Corporation manufacturer of precision instruments and equipment, including advanced imaging systems utilized in forensic applications. The company produces a variety of products such as X-ray systems, CT scanners, and analytical instruments that play a crucial role in crime scene investigations and medical examinations. The company operates in segments including medical systems, industrial equipment, and analytical instruments, emphasizing innovation and quality to meet the evolving needs of forensic imaging professionals and enhance investigative outcomes.

Recent Developments

• In December 2024, Canon Medical Systems USA introduced an expanded suite of AI-powered solutions designed to automate end-to-end workflows, enhancing its CT portfolio. These solutions include remote scan support, protocol management, and automated processing for CT neuro and chest studies. The AI-driven workflow aims to improve operational efficiency across healthcare systems by streamlining clinical workflows from protocol setup to image processing, reducing manual tasks, and enabling care teams to focus more on patient care.

• In March 2024, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) launched the Full Spectrum Imaging System Crime Scene Examiner (FSIS-CSE), a portable forensic imaging tool designed for crime scene evidence capture. This compact system features a high-resolution camera mounted on a tablet, enabling faster scans and sharper image capture of latent biological, chemical, and trace evidence in confined spaces. The FSIS-CSE integrates all necessary LEDs and filters, enhancing efficiency and providing a significant advantage in field operations for law enforcement and forensic laboratories, ensuring compatibility with AFIS systems.

Forensic Imaging Market Report Scope

Global Forensic Imaging Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global forensic imaging market report based on modality, end-use, application, and region:

• Modality Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • X-ray

  • CT

  • Ultrasound

  • MRI

• End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Forensic Institutes

  • Hospitals

  • Others

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Death Investigations

  • Clinical studies

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Sweden

    • Norway

    • Denmark

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • South Korea

    • Thailand

    • Australia

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait