Disposable Medical Gloves Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Application (Surgical and Examination), By Material (Latex and Synthetic), By Category (Powdered and Powder-free), By End-User (Hospitals & Clinics, Diagnostic/Pathology Labs, Dental Clinics, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global disposable medical gloves market size was valued at USD 9.14 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 10.40 billion in 2024 to USD 33.42 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 15.7% during the forecast period (2024-2032). North America dominated the global disposable medical gloves market with a market share of 45.84% in 2023.

Disposable medical gloves are used to prevent the transmission of infection between caregivers and patients. These gloves are used during medical examination and surgical procedures. Medical examination gloves can be further classified into sterile or non-sterile, while surgical gloves are generally sterile. These gloves are manufactured from different polymers, such as latex, nitrile, polyisoprene, and vinyl. They are a part of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), whose demand increased exponentially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The preventive measures implemented to minimize the spread of COVID-19 fueled the demand for disposable gloves. Moreover, factors, such as the surging number of healthcare facilities, growing awareness regarding health, hygiene & safety, and increasing number of surgical procedures will drive the market. Furthermore, the market players focusing on various strategies, such as new product launches and acquisitions are expected to speed up the market growth in the coming years. For instance, in January 2020, Mölnlycke launched the Biogel PI UltraTouch S surgical glove, a skin-friendly glove to reduce the problem of allergies.

The impact of the COVID-19 sped up the disposable medical gloves market growth. This was attributed to the significant acceleration in the adoption of medical gloves by healthcare workers in the treatment and diagnosis of COVID-19 and increase in hospital admissions across the world. The market recorded a humongous growth rate of 99.6% in 2020 compared to 12.3% in 2019.

Furthermore, in 2021 the demand for disposable medical gloves has increased. According to the data published by International Labor Organization in 2023, Malaysia accounted for 49.0% of global rubber glove exports in 2021, including 16.0% of all surgical gloves and 53.7% of examination gloves. With the increase in the demand for gloves, the market players also increased their production capacities in 2021. However, in 2022, the market witnessed a decline due to lower pricing & sales volume, lower capacity utilization, and slower incoming orders. Furthermore, the market is projected to grow at a significant growth rate over the forecast period owing to increase in new product launches.

Disposable Medical Gloves Market Trends

High Demand for Examination Gloves in COVID-19 Tests and Mass Vaccinations to Drive Market Growth

The prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic is falling significantly due to increased testing and mass vaccination campaigns. Many developing countries are building robust healthcare infrastructures and offering advanced treatment to deal with COVID-19. These countries launched new COVID-19 testing and vaccination centers to reduce the number of cases.

For instance, in June 2020, the Indian Council of Medical Research reported 877 COVID-19 testing laboratories conducting various tests, such as real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), TrueNat, and Cartridge-based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CBNAAT) to detect the COVID-19 virus.In addition, in 2020, the Indian Council of Medical Research reported 3,011 COVID-19 testing laboratories for testing the virus. Since medical examination gloves are required for the COVID-19 testing, there was a sudden increase in their demand.

In most countries, large-scale vaccination drives started in the mid of 2021 to fight against the pandemic. The launch of new vaccination centers by various countries increased the demand for PPE. Thus, the increased need for examination gloves during the pandemic proved beneficial for market growth.

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Disposable Medical Gloves Market Growth Factors

Increasing Awareness of Hygiene and Safety from Healthcare-Associated Infections to Drive Market Growth

The rising awareness of hygiene and safety from Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) is a substantial factor driving the global market for disposable medical gloves. According to the WHO, every day around the world, thousands of people die from infections acquired while receiving medical care. In such procedures, hands are the main source of the transmission of infection. Hence, hand hygiene is crucial to prevent infection and control HAI transmission. Thus, healthcare facilities are constantly increasing the adoption of medical gloves.

HAI can occur in any healthcare setting, such as hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, dialysis facilities, clinics, and long-term care facilities (for example, nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities). These infections can cause morbidity and mortality. According to the WHO, for every 100 hospitalized patients at any time, 10 in developing and 7 in developed countries will acquire at least one Healthcare-Associated Infection (HAI). The prevalence of HAI in developed countries varies between 3.5% and 12% at any given time. Medical gloves are highly recommended for minimizing infections, which will drive its demand globally.

Rising Number of Healthcare Facilities Globally to Drive Market Growth

Rise in the number of different kinds of diseases across the globe and rapid growth in the patient population have increased the demand for healthcare facilities. The surge in healthcare expenditure in various countries to build an advanced and robust healthcare infrastructure has increased the number of public and private healthcare facilities. For instance, according to the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development), in 2023, the number of hospitals in Mexico was 5,019 in 2022 compared to 4,995 in 2021. Similarly, Colombia also witnessed an increase in the number of hospitals. According to Becker's ASC Review, in 2020, the number of ambulatory surgical centers in the U.S. was 5,700 compared to 5,369 in 2019. This significant increase in healthcare facilities is expected to surge the patient admission rate, thereby facilitating the demand for disposable medical gloves.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Allergies Associated with Several Types of Gloves to Hinder Market Growth

Despite the increasing adoption of gloves globally, some factors are responsible for restraining the market growth. Allergies can occur through direct contact with allergic latex proteins in latex gloves. The common symptoms of latex allergies include redness, swelling of the skin, and immediate itching. In addition, allergic contact dermatitis can be caused by chemicals that are used in the manufacturing of rubber gloves. This type of allergic dermatitis causes eczema and blisters on the back side of the hands. This allergic condition occurs 1 to 3 days after wearing rubber gloves. As a preventive measure, many hospitals have implemented policies to restrict the use of latex medical gloves. According to the data published by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America in April 2022, around 4.3% of the general population worldwide suffers from latex allergy.

Moreover, there are numerous allergies caused by latex and the lubricating powder used in powdered gloves. Thus, powdered gloves are banned in several countries across the globe. For instance, Germany, the U.K., and the U.S. have banned powdered gloves. Furthermore, some countries, such as Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Taiwan also announced a ban on powdered gloves in healthcare facilities. The other countries are also expected to reduce or stop the use of powdered gloves in the future. Hence, the allergies associated with the use of several medical gloves can hamper the market growth.

Disposable Medical Gloves Market Segmentation Analysis

By Application Analysis

Examination Segment Held Largest Market Share Owing to Rising Number of Diagnostic Tests during Pandemic

Based on application, the global market is segmented into surgical and examination.

The examination segment held a dominant share of the global market in 2023 due to the rising number of diagnostic tests used by healthcare providers during the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus. Moreover, an increased prevalence of Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) is expected to favor the segment growth. Various market players are also focusing on the launches of innovative examination gloves to enhance the degree of protection.

• For instance, in January 2024, Kimberly-Clark Professional announced the launch of new Kimtech Polaris Nitrile Exam Gloves for utilization in laboratory settings that are designed to offer users a high level of protection, durability, and comfort from a glove.

The surgical segment is anticipated to record a moderate CAGR during the forecast period. The demand for surgical gloves was low in 2021 as only non-elective surgical procedures were allowed during the pandemic. According to a recent news article published by STAT, in 2021, Tampa’s BayCare Health System in Florida had seen a tenfold increase in COVID-19 patients. Expecting this surge to get worse, its executives decided to pause elective surgeries. However, after 2022, the revenue from this segment is expected to reach pre-pandemic levels as healthcare facilities plan to restart all surgical procedures, including elective and non-elective surgeries.

Moreover, several market players are focusing on the launches of new manufacturing plants to fulfill the future demand regarding the supply of medical gloves. These are some of the factors responsible for the segment’s growth.

• For instance, in August 2022, Mölnlycke invested USD 54.1 million in a new plant in Malaysia to meet future demand for high-quality surgical gloves.

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By Material Analysis

Synthetic Segment Dominated Market due to Rising Adoption of Nitrile Gloves

Based on material, the global market is segmented into latex and synthetic.

The synthetic segment is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period of 2024-2032. Synthetic gloves are further segmented into nitrile, neoprene, polyisoprene, and others. The growth of the synthetic segment is attributed to the rising adoption of nitrile gloves over latex gloves.

Synthetic gloves provide better chemical protection and strong protection against viruses. Moreover, the increasing number of diagnostic tests and growing preference for synthetic gloves to deal with high-risk situations, such as handling blood samples and body fluids will drive the segment growth.

The latex segment is anticipated to record a comparatively lower CAGR during the forecast period. This is due to the rising number of skin allergies and reactions caused by latex gloves.

By Category Analysis

Adoption of Powder-free Gloves to Rise Due to Their Beneficial Characteristics

Based on category, the global market can be segmented into powdered and powder-free.

The powder-free segment held the largest market share in 2023 and is projected to record a substantial CAGR during the forecast timeframe. The increased preference for powder-free gloves is due to their versatility and high water resistance, making them a suitable option for pathology/diagnostics labs. Powder-free gloves have low protein content, which help reduce exposure to natural latex proteins (allergens). These gloves are treated with chlorine to eliminate the powdered residue and latex proteins. The chlorination process modifies the surface texture and helps reduce the natural tackiness. Powder-free gloves are environmentally sustainable and eco-friendly products. In addition, numerous market players are also focusing on the development and launch of powder-free medical gloves. Thus, the adoption of powder-free gloves is expected to increase in the coming years.

• For instance, in May 2023, Cranberry announced the launch of its newest innovation, the Bio Nitrile Biodegradable Nitrile Powder Free Examination Gloves. These gloves are designed to meet the growing demand for environmentally sustainable and eco-friendly products.  

The powdered segment is expected to register the lowest CAGR during the forecast period. The sluggish growth of this segment is due to the harmful effects associated with their use. For instance, skin allergies, nasal allergies, asthma, and life-threatening anaphylactic shock are some of the major side-effects of using powdered gloves. Thus, most countries, such as Germany, the U.S., and Saudi Arabia have banned these gloves while several other countries are also expected to impose restrictions on their use in the coming years.

By End-User Analysis

Surging Patient Admissions to Drive Product Use in Hospitals & Clinics

On the basis of end-user, the market is segmented into hospitals & clinics, diagnostic/pathology labs, dental clinics, and others.

The hospitals & clinics segment is expected to dominate the global disposable medical gloves market share during the forecast period due to rising patient admissions in hospitals & clinics. Examination procedures in hospitals have increased in recent years. Furthermore, improving healthcare infrastructure to provide better medical examinations and other care services in hospitals & clinics is anticipated to increase the supply of medical gloves in healthcare facilities.

The instant spike in demand for disposable medical gloves from diagnostic/pathology labs is attributed to the increased number of COVID-19 tests in 2020. Moreover, rising screening and diagnosis of various diseases is expected to contribute to the segment’s long-term growth.

Dental clinics are anticipated to account for a substantial market share during the forecast period. The demand for medical gloves was low in these clinics in 2021 as only critical dental care was prioritized during the pandemic. Due to lockdown in several countries, many dental clinics were closed and only emergency care was delivered via teleconsultation.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

On the basis of region, the global market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

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The market in North America was valued at USD 4.19 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to continue its dominance in the global market during the forecast period. Some of the contributing factors for the region’s dominance include substantial investments by the U.S. government to increase the production of nitrile gloves. For instance, in May 2021, the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), in coordination with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), announced that it had assigned a contract worth USD 26.3 million to several gloves manufacturers to expand the domestic production capacity of nitrile gloves. Furthermore, strong demand for disposable gloves due to the increased number of surgeries in hospitals and ASCs will propel the market growth in North America during the forecast period. Increased demand for these products from pathologists and the growing demand for high-quality powder-free gloves are the other factors likely to drive the market growth in the region.

Europe is anticipated to hold a significant market share during the forecast timeframe. This is due to the growing awareness regarding HAIs, increasing spending on healthcare infrastructure, growing inclination toward health & safety, and rising patient footfall in healthcare facilities across Europe.

The market in Asia Pacific is estimated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Some of the critical factors contributing to the regional market’s growth include the presence of major companies, such as Top Glove Corporation Bhd, Hartalega, and others and increase in production capacity by these key players. For instance, in March 2020, ANSELL LTD., a prominent company in the global market, announced its decision to acquire a 50% stake in Careplus Group Berhad, a Malaysian mid-sized company. This acquisition expanded company’s presence in Asia Pacific. Furthermore, Chinese manufacturers are introducing new products to meet the rising demand for medical gloves, thereby spurring the market growth.

Latin America held a substantial market share in 2023 and is projected to expand at a moderate CAGR during the forecast period. The region is experiencing an increase in healthcare expenditure to enhance its healthcare system. For instance, according to the OECD, in 2020, healthcare expenditure of Chile was expected to be 9.4% of its total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to its healthcare sector. Thus, the steady growth of the healthcare industry is expected to increase the demand for disposable medical gloves in Latin America.

The market growth in the Middle East & Africa is attributed to the increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases in the region, surge in hospital admissions, increasing burden of healthcare-associated infections, and rising technological advancements in the production of medical gloves.

List of Key Companies in Disposable Medical Gloves Market

Strong Performance of Malaysian Gloves Suppliers to Boost Market Growth

In terms of the competitive landscape of the global market, the scenario reflects the dominance of Malaysian companies, such as Top Glove Corporation Bhd, Hartalega, and others. Top Glove Corporation Bhd is a prominent player operating in the market. It constantly focuses on the introduction of new gloves in the market. For instance, in February 2020, Top Glove Corporation Bhd launched biogreen biodegradable nitrile gloves (powder-free).

Other market players include ANSELL LTD., Kossan Rubber Industries Bhd, Semperit AG Holding, and Sri Trang Agro-Industry Plc. These companies are anticipated to increase their market share during the forecast period by launching new products and increasing their production capacities to meet the need for medical gloves.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Top Glove Corporation Bhd (Malaysia)


• Cardinal Health (U.S.)


• Kimberly-Clark Corporation (U.S.)


• Sri Trang Agro-Industry Plc. (Thailand)


• Mölnlycke Health Care AB (Sweden)


• ANSELL LTD. (Australia)


• Hartalega (Malaysia)


• Semperit AG Holding (Austria)


• Kossan Rubber Industries Bhd (Malaysia)


• Supermax Corporation Berhad (Malaysia)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• December 2022 – Semperit AG Holding sold its medical business to Southeast Asian glove producer HARPS.


• November 2022 – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted 510(k) clearance for SafeSource Direct’s chemo-rated nitrile exam gloves.


• April 2022 – Unigloves, Ltd. launched new biodegradable disposable nitrile gloves. According to ISO standards, the gloves have also proven to be safe for use against skin.


• April 2022 - SHOWA Group received FDA approval for its single-use nitrile gloves. With this approval, the company was able to supply the market’s first biodegradable nitrile gloves approved for medical use.


• February 2022 - Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. launched the Kimtech Opal Nitrile Gloves which claimed to provide protection against contamination by micro-organisms and chemical splash.


• September 2021 - American Nitrile launched Ohio-based glove manufacturing operations to meet the demand for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).


• January 2021 – ANSELL, LTD. entered a supply partnership and acquired the life science business from Primus Gloves Private Limited, an Indian manufacturer of gloves. This acquisition accelerated ANSELL, LTD.’s life sciences business growth.

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The global disposable medical gloves market report offers a detailed analysis and overview. It focuses on key aspects, such as competitive landscape, application, material, category, end-user, and region. Besides this, it offers insights into the market drivers, trends, dynamics, and other key insights. In addition to the factors mentioned above, the report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the growth of the market in recent years.

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