Softgel Capsules Market Size To Reach $15.4 Billion By 2033

August 2026 | Report Format: Electronic (PDF)

Softgel Capsules Market Growth & Trends

The global softgel capsules market size is estimated to reach USD 15.4 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 7.9% from 2026 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Softgel capsules are proven to be the choice of formulation for poorly soluble drugs and enhance the absorption time of most drug molecules. Its advantages over tablets and other oral formulations have led to the increased adoption of softgel capsules across the globe. Ease of swallowing, taste masking, improved bioavailability, non-reactive, aesthetically appealing, and longer shelf life are the factors influencing its wide acceptance.

Leading players like Catalent, Eurocaps, and many others, are developing vegan capsules to broaden their vegan consumer base as the softgel capsule segment registers nearly 40% of their overall revenue. Large Pharma companies like Pfizer, Novartis, Bayer, and Procter and Gamble, collaborate with leading Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMO) to provide cost-effective products in the highly competitive market. Research to develop an oral vaccine to treat respiratory infection caused by the SaRS-CoV-2 virus has fueled the R&D of softgel manufacturers. Additionally, the shift towards a healthier lifestyle and immunity-boosting vitamins, have also surged the softgel market post the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

key Request a free sample copy or view report summary: Softgel Capsules Market Report

Softgel Capsules Market Report Highlights

Based on type, the gelatin-based/animal-based segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 83.4% in 2025, due to its extensive use across pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and over-the-counter healthcare products.
Based on application, the vitamin and dietary supplement segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 23.2% in 2025, owing to the increasing global consumption of nutritional supplements for preventive healthcare and wellness.
Based on end-use, the pharmaceutical companies segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 51.8% in 2025, due to the extensive use of softgel capsules for prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, and specialty pharmaceutical formulations.
North America held the largest softgel capsules market share of 41.2% in 2025, driven by the region's well-established pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturing industry, high consumption of dietary supplements, and increasing adoption of advanced oral dosage formulations.