World demand for medical device packaging is projected to increase 5.9% annually to $25.7 billion in 2017, according to a new study from The Freedonia Group Inc. Reflecting the operation of advanced and diversified medical product industries, the U.S., Western Europe, and Japan will continue to account for almost 60% of the total market. However, demand in these countries will expand below the average global pace as intensifying health care cost containment pressures and fierce multiple supplier competition weaken growth. The fastest expanding medical device packaging markets are expected to emerge in India, Mexico, China, and the more prosperous Africa/Mideast countries, where diversification, expansion, and stricter regulation of medical product industries are raising the quality and functional requirements of containers and related accessories.

Pouches and trays will continue to lead sales among container types based on adaptability to cost-effective infection-resistant and security-enhanced formats. Multiple compartment trays will build sales as they virtually eliminate the risk of staff errors and the spread of infectious agents during the preparation of products for surgery and various other patient procedures. Clamshell packs are also expected to fare well in the global marketplace as they match or exceed all the advantages of rigid trays while offering greater protection against product damage during transport and storage. Bags and boxes will realize below-average gains in demand. Among other medical device containers, blister packs and glass vials will post the fastest growth. Increasing use in contact lens packaging will boost the market for blister packs, and glass vials will remain the principal container employed for diagnostic reagents and related substances.