MEA Biologics and Biosimilar Market
MEA Biologics and Biosimilar Market Overview 2025 to 2035
The Middle East and Africa (MEA) biologics and biosimilar market is poised for substantial expansion, with forecasts indicating a market valuation of USD 613.6 million in 2025, rising from USD 512.6 million in 2024. With a 6.5% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, the market is expected to exceed USD 976.6 million by 2035.
Market Overview
Biologics and biosimilars are transforming the healthcare landscape in MEA, offering innovative treatment options for chronic diseases such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune disorders. The demand for cost-effective alternatives to expensive biologics is driving biosimilar adoption, especially in countries with high disease prevalence.
The increasing investment in research and development (R&D) by pharmaceutical companies, coupled with government support, is fostering market growth. Regulatory advancements and patent expirations of blockbuster biologic drugs are further paving the way for biosimilars to gain market traction.
Key Market Drivers
1. Rising Chronic Disease Prevalence & Demand for Affordable Treatment
- According to WHO (2024), 75% of deaths in MEA are caused by non-communicable diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and arthritis.
- The high cost of biologics has led to increased biosimilar penetration, as governments and healthcare providers seek cost-effective alternatives.
- Biosimilars are 30-50% cheaper than biologics, making them a preferred choice for patients and healthcare institutions.
2. Expiration of Biologic Drug Patents & Regulatory Support
- Over the next decade, patents for several leading biologics are set to expire, creating opportunities for biosimilar manufacturers.
- Regulatory bodies in KSA, UAE, and South Africa are streamlining biosimilar approval processes, ensuring faster market entry.
- Governments are integrating biosimilars into national health insurance schemes to enhance accessibility.
3. Advancements in Biopharmaceutical Technology
- Subcutaneous drug formulations are gaining traction due to improved patient compliance and ease of administration.
- AI and digital tools are enhancing biosimilar development and accelerating clinical trials.
- Roche’s MabThera SC reduces infusion time from 2.5 hours to just 5 minutes, increasing patient adherence.
Market Restraints
Despite promising growth, the MEA biologics and biosimilar market faces notable challenges:
- Regulatory complexities: Varying regulations across MEA nations create market entry barriers for new players.
- Physician and patient reluctance: Preference for branded biologics limits biosimilar adoption in certain regions.
- Limited reimbursement policies: Inadequate insurance coverage restricts access to biosimilars for low-income populations.
Segmental Insights
By Drug Type
| Segment |
Market Share (2025) |
CAGR (2025-2035) |
|---|---|---|
|
Adalimumab |
38% |
6.7% |
|
Bevacizumab |
20% |
6.3% |
|
Trastuzumab |
18% |
6.1% |
|
Others |
24% |
6.5% |
By Route of Administration
- Subcutaneous administration: Dominates with 52% market share, preferred for its patient-friendly approach.
- Intravenous (IV) administration: Preferred in hospital settings, accounting for 48% market share.
By Distribution Channel
- Hospital Pharmacies: Largest distribution channel, holding 45% of the market share.
- Retail Pharmacies & Online Sales: Gaining popularity due to convenience and increasing digital health adoption.
Regional Analysis
Saudi Arabia (KSA)
- Holds 35% of the MEA market share, driven by high healthcare spending and regulatory advancements.
- National policies promoting biosimilar adoption are expected to accelerate market growth.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Expected to grow at a 6.8% CAGR, supported by local partnerships with international biopharma firms.
- Cancer biologics dominate the market due to increasing cancer prevalence and government initiatives.
South Africa & North Africa
- Governments are encouraging biosimilar manufacturing within the region to reduce dependency on imports.
- Increasing collaborations with global biotech firms are boosting market penetration.
Competitive Landscape
Key Players & Strategic Developments
| Company |
Recent Developments |
|---|---|
|
AbbVie Inc. |
Expanded biosimilar portfolio for rheumatoid arthritis treatment. |
|
Pfizer Inc. |
Launched Trastuzumab biosimilar for breast cancer treatment in MEA. |
|
Johnson & Johnson |
Entered strategic partnerships to strengthen biologics manufacturing in MEA. |
|
Roche (Genentech) |
Developed a subcutaneous version of Rituximab for increased patient convenience. |
|
Amgen |
Expanded presence in UAE with localized biosimilar production. |
Contact our advisory team for insights on emerging players and market strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the projected growth of the MEA biologics and biosimilar market from 2025 to 2035?
The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5%, reaching US$ 976.6 million by 2035.
2. Which drug segment dominates the market?
Adalimumab leads the market with a 38% share, followed by Bevacizumab and Trastuzumab.
3. What are the major challenges affecting market growth?
Regulatory hurdles, physician preference for branded biologics, and inadequate reimbursement policies.
4. Which countries are key growth markets?
Saudi Arabia, UAE, and South Africa are the fastest-growing markets due to policy support and rising disease burden.
Conclusion
The MEA biologics and biosimilar market is on a strong growth trajectory, driven by increasing biosimilar adoption, technological advancements, and policy support. With patent expirations opening opportunities for biosimilar players, companies investing in innovation and market expansion will gain a competitive edge.
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