APAC Peptide Therapeutics Market Research Report – Segmented By Type, Application, Type of Manufacturers, Route of Administration, Synthesis Technology & Country (India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore and Rest of APAC) – Industry Analysis (2025 to 2033).
The APAC Peptide Therapeutics Market Size was valued at USD 13.52 billion in 2024. The APAC Peptide Therapeutics Market size is expected to have 12.56 % CAGR from 2025 to 2033 and be worth USD 39.21 billion by 2033 from USD 15.22 billion in 2025.
Peptide therapeutics refer to short chains of amino acids that mimic the biological functions of naturally occurring proteins and are increasingly used in treating a wide range of diseases, including cancer, metabolic disorders, and infectious conditions. Their ability to target specific molecular pathways with high selectivity and low toxicity has made them a focal point in modern drug development. In the Asia Pacific (APAC) region, the peptide therapeutics market is gaining momentum due to growing investments in biopharmaceutical R&D, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and rising government support for innovation in healthcare. Additionally, the demand for personalized medicine and targeted therapies is reshaping treatment paradigms across oncology, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease management.
The escalating burden of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular ailments is one of the primary drivers fueling the growth of the APAC peptide therapeutics market. According to the World Health Organization, over 70% of deaths in the Asia Pacific region are attributed to non-communicable diseases, with diabetes alone affecting more than 200 million people across China, India, and Indonesia. The high specificity and efficacy of peptides in modulating biological pathways make them ideal candidates for managing these conditions.
For example, GLP-1 receptor agonists a class of peptide-based drugs are widely used in type 2 diabetes management due to their ability to regulate glucose levels without significant hypoglycemic risk. In China, the number of patients using GLP-1 analogs such as semaglutide has grown by more than 25% annually since 2020, as reported by the Chinese Medical Association. Moreover, the growing geriatric population across the region further amplifies the demand for chronic disease management solutions. As per the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), the proportion of individuals aged 60 and above is projected to reach 25% of the total population by 2050.
The rapid expansion of biopharmaceutical innovation hubs across the Asia Pacific region has significantly accelerated the development and commercialization of peptide therapeutics. Countries like Singapore, South Korea, and Australia have emerged as global leaders in biotech research, offering robust regulatory frameworks, state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure, and favorable funding policies. In addition, major pharmaceutical players such as Takeda (Japan), Hanmi Pharmaceutical (South Korea), and CSPC Pharmaceutical Group (China) are heavily investing in peptide R&D pipelines. For instance, Hanmi Pharmaceutical has developed multiple proprietary peptide platforms, including the "ChemBridge" technology, which enhances the stability and bioavailability of peptide molecules. The company reported a 40% increase in R&D spending in 2023 compared to the previous year.
Government initiatives also play a crucial role in fostering innovation. As per the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India, public funding for biopharma R&D reached USD 1.2 billion in fiscal year 2023, supporting the development of indigenous peptide-based treatments. These advancements collectively contribute to a thriving ecosystem for peptide therapeutics, positioning the APAC region as a key player in the global market.
One of the most significant barriers to the widespread adoption of peptide therapeutics in the Asia Pacific region is the high cost associated with their synthesis and manufacturing. Peptides are typically produced through solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) or recombinant DNA technology both of which require specialized equipment, highly skilled personnel, and stringent quality control measures. According to McKinsey & Company, the production cost of synthetic peptides can be up to five times higher than conventional small-molecule drugs, primarily due to multi-step synthesis and purification processes. Moreover, scaling up peptide production while maintaining consistency and purity remains a technical challenge, especially for longer-chain peptides. For example, the synthesis of a 40-amino-acid-long peptide can take several weeks and yield only a fraction of the desired product after purification. As per the Journal of Peptide Science, less than 30% of peptides synthesized at lab scale successfully transition to commercial production in APAC countries due to economic and technological constraints. In emerging markets such as Vietnam and the Philippines, limited access to advanced manufacturing facilities further restricts local production capabilities, which are forcing pharmaceutical companies to rely on imports from Western manufacturers. This dependency increases costs and delays market entry.
The APAC region presents a fragmented regulatory landscape, where varying approval timelines, documentation requirements, and clinical trial mandates hinder the swift commercialization of peptide therapeutics. Unlike the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which provide centralized regulatory oversight, APAC countries operate under diverse regulatory systems by making compliance complex and time-consuming.
In China, for instance, the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) requires extensive preclinical and clinical data before approving new peptide drugs, often extending the approval timeline beyond two years. Similarly, in India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has recently revised its guidelines for peptide-based drugs, introducing additional safety testing protocols that delay market entry. Japan, despite having a well-established regulatory framework, imposes strict post-marketing surveillance requirements, particularly for biologics and peptides.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into peptide discovery is revolutionizing the way new therapeutics are designed and optimized. Traditional methods of peptide drug development are time-consuming and resource-intensive, but AI-driven platforms enable faster identification of lead candidates with enhanced stability, potency, and reduced side effects. According to a report by Accenture, AI applications in drug discovery could save the pharmaceutical industry up to USD 100 billion annually by 2030, with peptides being a major beneficiary of this transformation. In the APAC region, companies like Insilico Intelligence (Singapore) and DeepBioTech (South Korea) are leveraging AI to accelerate peptide-based drug development. For example, Insilico developed an AI platform capable of generating novel peptide sequences tailored for specific disease targets, reducing early-stage discovery timelines by 60%.
The rise of personalized medicine is creating a strong foundation for the expansion of peptide therapeutics, particularly in oncology and autoimmune disease treatment. Unlike traditional therapies that follow a one-size-fits-all approach, personalized medicine leverages genetic profiling and biomarker analysis to tailor treatments for individual patients. According to the Asia-Pacific Society of Molecular Medicine, the use of targeted therapies in cancer treatment has increased by over 35% in the past five years, with peptides playing a pivotal role in developing tumor-specific agents. In South Korea, for instance, the Ministry of Health and Welfare launched the Precision Medicine Initiative, allocating USD 800 million toward genomic research and customized treatment development. This initiative has spurred the development of peptide vaccines targeting specific neoantigens in cancer patients. Similarly, in Australia, the Garvan Institute of Medical Research is exploring peptide-based immunotherapies for autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, where precise immune modulation is essential.
Despite the growing demand for peptide-based therapies, the Asia Pacific region faces a critical shortage of skilled professionals trained in peptide chemistry, formulation science, and biopharmaceutical development. Developing high-quality peptide drugs requires expertise in areas such as solid-phase synthesis, cyclization, and bioconjugation specialized skills that are not widely available across all APAC countries. According to the International Council for Science, less than 15% of pharmaceutical graduates in India and Southeast Asia receive formal training in peptide synthesis techniques. In China, although there is a strong presence of biotech firms, universities lag in offering dedicated courses in peptide engineering, resulting in a talent gap that hampers innovation. As per the Chinese Academy of Sciences, only 10 out of 50 surveyed universities offer advanced-level coursework in peptide chemistry, limiting the availability of trained researchers for industry needs. This scarcity of skilled labor affects both academia and industry, slowing down the pace of drug discovery and development. Moreover, competition for experienced peptide scientists is intensifying, with multinational corporations offering premium salaries, which is making it difficult for smaller biotech firms to retain top talent.
A persistent scientific challenge in the field of peptide therapeutics is their poor oral bioavailability and susceptibility to enzymatic degradation. Most peptides are administered via injection because they are rapidly broken down in the gastrointestinal tract when taken orally. According to the Journal of Pharmacological Sciences, fewer than 5% of approved peptide drugs can be delivered orally by restricting patient compliance and limiting market expansion.
In response, researchers across the APAC region are exploring strategies such as chemical modifications, encapsulation in nanoparticles, and prodrug approaches to enhance peptide stability. However, these innovations come with added complexity and cost. For instance, the development of oral insulin formulations a long-standing goal in peptide therapeutics has faced repeated setbacks due to insufficient absorption and inconsistent efficacy. The regulatory agencies remain cautious about approving new delivery methods without substantial clinical validation. Until breakthroughs in formulation science deliver reliable and scalable solutions, oral delivery limitations will continue to constrain the broader adoption of peptide therapeutics in the APAC market.
| REPORT METRIC | DETAILS |
| Market Size Available | 2024 to 2033 |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025 to 2033 |
| CAGR | 12.56 % |
| Segments Covered | By Type, Application, Type of Manufacturers, Route of Administration, Synthesis Technology and Country. |
| Various Analyses Covered | Global, Regional & Country Level Analysis, Segment-Level Analysis; DROC, PESTLE Analysis, Porter's Five Forces Analysis, Competitive Landscape, Analyst Overview of Investment Opportunities |
| Country Covered | China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Rest of APAC. |
| Market Leader Profiled | Eli Lilly and Company, Amgen, Inc., Pfizer, Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Ever Neuro Pharma GmbH, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, AstraZeneca PLC |
The generic segment was the largest and held 58.3% of the APAC peptide therapeutics market share in 2024. In China, the government’s push for cost-effective treatment options has led to a surge in generic drug approvals. According to the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), over 15 new generic peptide drugs were approved between 2021 and 2023, contributing significantly to domestic production and affordability. Similarly, in India, where nearly 70% of healthcare expenses are out-of-pocket, generic peptides offer an accessible alternative to expensive branded therapies.
The innovative peptide therapeutics segment is projected to grow with a CAGR of 12.6% during the forecast period 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by rising investment in biopharmaceutical R&D, particularly in countries like South Korea, Singapore, and Australia, which are positioning themselves as global innovation hubs. In addition, collaborations between academic institutions and private companies are accelerating the discovery of next-generation peptides with enhanced stability and targeted delivery mechanisms. Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) has also implemented favorable regulatory pathways for fast-tracking innovative peptides, especially those targeting rare diseases. As per the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, orphan drug designations for peptide-based therapies increased by 40% between 2020 and 2023.
The metabolic disorders segment was the largest by occupying 32.1% of the APAC peptide therapeutics market share in 2024. According to the International Diabetes Federation, more than 212 million adults in the Asia Pacific suffer from diabetes or pre-diabetes, with China alone accounting for over 141 million cases. Additionally, governments across the region are prioritizing diabetes management through public health initiatives. In India, the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) expanded its coverage to include access to advanced therapeutic options, including peptide-based antidiabetic agents.
The oncology application segment is anticipated to register a CAGR of 14.2% during the forecast period. The growth of the segment is likely to be driven by the rising cancer incidence and the development of targeted peptide-based therapies that offer improved efficacy and reduced side effects. Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has also expedited the approval process for peptide-based oncology drugs, recognizing their potential in precision medicine. Moreover, advancements in peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) are enhancing tumor-targeting capabilities, improving patient outcomes.
The in-house manufacturing segment was accounted in holding a prominent share of the APAC peptide therapeutics market in 2024. Large pharmaceutical firms and established biotech companies prefer internal production to maintain control over quality, intellectual property, and supply chain integrity. In Japan, major players like Takeda and Astellas operate state-of-the-art peptide synthesis facilities, ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory standards set by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA). As per the Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association, over 80% of domestically produced peptides are manufactured in-house by top-tier companies.
In China, CSPC Pharmaceutical Group and Sinopeptides have invested heavily in vertical integration, building dedicated peptide manufacturing units capable of producing both APIs and finished dosage forms. These trends reflect a strong preference among large-scale producers to retain full control over formulation, scalability, and regulatory compliance.
The outsourced manufacturing segment is swiftly emerging with a CAGR of 15.8% from 2025 to 2033 with the increasing number of biotech startups and small-to-mid-sized pharmaceutical companies that lack the infrastructure for in-house peptide synthesis. South Korea is also witnessing a surge in outsourcing partnerships, particularly with U.S. and European biotechs seeking cost-effective production solutions.
The parenteral route segment dominated the APAC peptide therapeutics market with significant share in 2024. In Japan, the majority of approved peptide drugs are administered via injection, with the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) approving only two oral peptide formulations in the last decade. According to the Japanese Society of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, less than 5% of marketed peptides in the country are available in non-parenteral forms. China also follows a similar trend, with most hospitals and clinics relying on injectable peptide therapies for conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and hormone deficiencies. As per the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, intravenous and subcutaneous routes remain the gold standard for delivering peptides due to their predictable pharmacokinetics and rapid onset of action.
The oral route of administration segment is swiftly emerging with a projected CAGR of 16.5% during the forecast period. In Singapore, biotech firm Vaxxinity has developed proprietary oral delivery platforms designed to enhance peptide absorption without compromising stability. According to a report by BioPortfolio International, clinical trials of orally delivered insulin analogs demonstrated a 40% improvement in bioavailability compared to conventional injectables. Collaborative efforts between academia and industry are further accelerating progress. In South Korea, Seoul National University partnered with Daewoong Pharmaceutical to develop enteric-coated microcapsules that protect peptides from gastric degradation. As per the Korea Healthcare Industry Development Institute, such innovations have resulted in a 25% reduction in hospitalization rates for chronic disease patients requiring daily injections.
The Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis (SPPS) segment was accounted in holding a prominent share of the APAC peptide therapeutics market in 2024. In Japan, SPPS is extensively used by leading pharmaceutical companies such as Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma and PeptiDream for the development of complex cyclic peptides. China has also witnessed a surge in SPPS-based manufacturing, with companies like GL Biochem and Chemicloud investing in high-throughput synthesizers.
The hybrid synthesis technology segment is estimated to showcase a CAGR of 18.3% in the next coming years. In South Korea, companies like Peptron and GenScript have pioneered hybrid approaches to synthesize difficult sequences such as disulfide-rich peptides and post-translationally modified proteins. Australia’s PeptiGen is another innovator leveraging hybrid technology to produce therapeutic peptides with enhanced stability and bioactivity. As per the Australian Society for Medical Research, hybrid synthesis has contributed to a 30% increase in successful clinical trial candidates in the last three years.
China was the top performer in the APAC peptide therapeutics market with 35.4% of the share in 2024 owing to the underpinned by robust investments in biopharma R&D, a growing diabetic population, and supportive government policies aimed at strengthening domestic drug manufacturing. Chinese pharmaceutical giants such as CSPC Pharmaceutical Group and Sinopeptides have expanded their peptide portfolios, while contract manufacturers like GL Biochem are catering to global demand. China is set to maintain its dominant position in the APAC peptide therapeutics market with rising healthcare expenditure and an aging population.
Japan was positioned next with 22.3% of the APAC peptide therapeutics market share in 2024. The Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) has streamlined regulatory processes for peptide drugs in oncology and neurology. Japanese firms like PeptiDream and Torii Pharmaceutical are pioneering the development of macrocyclic and radiolabeled peptides for targeted therapy. Moreover, the country's aging population, with over 30% aged 65 and above, is driving demand for chronic disease management solutions.
India peptide therapeutics market is likely to grow with a key manufacturing and export hub for affordable peptide drugs. The country's strength lies in its competitive cost structure, skilled workforce, and growing presence of contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs). According to the Indian Drug Manufacturers' Association, India exports over 60% of its peptide API production to global markets, particularly the U.S. and Europe. Companies such as Jubilant Life Sciences and Dr. Reddy’s have established specialized peptide manufacturing units to meet international quality standards.
South Korea peptide therapeutics market growth is likely to be driven by its rapid technological advancements and strategic export expansion. The country is home to several biotech firms actively developing novel peptides for oncology, autoimmune diseases, and vaccine delivery. Government-led initiatives such as the Bio-Korea Strategy 2030 aim to elevate the country’s biopharma sector, allocating USD 1.5 billion to support peptide and protein-based drug development.
Australia peptide therapeutics market growth is driven by its high adoption of cutting-edge medical treatments and strong regulatory oversight. The Garvan Institute of Medical Research and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute are leading clinical studies on peptide vaccines and immune modulators. Additionally, Australia’s aging population and rising incidence of chronic diseases are increasing demand for targeted therapies. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, over 14 million Australians live with at least one chronic condition with the need for precision medicines.
Eli Lilly and Company, Amgen, Inc., Pfizer, Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Ever Neuro Pharma GmbH, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, AstraZeneca PLC, GlaxoSmithKline plc, Novo Nordisk A/S., Novartis AG, Zealand Pharma AG, AmbioPharm Inc., Bachem Holding AG, PolyPeptide Group, Sanofi SA, Amylin Pharmaceuticals, CirclePharma, Inc., PeptiDream Inc., Apitope Technology, Arch NioPartners, and Galena Biopharmaceuticals are some of the noteworthy participants in the APAC peptide therapeutics market profiled in this report.
The competition in the APAC peptide therapeutics market is intensifying as pharmaceutical companies and biotech firms strive to capture a larger share of this rapidly evolving sector. The market features a mix of established multinational corporations and emerging local players, all vying to develop more effective, stable, and patient-friendly peptide-based therapies. Innovation remains at the core of competitive differentiation, with companies investing heavily in next-generation peptide engineering, novel delivery systems, and advanced synthesis techniques. Strategic acquisitions and partnerships are also shaping the competitive dynamics, allowing firms to broaden their pipelines and strengthen their foothold across diverse therapeutic areas. Additionally, the rise of contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) is enabling smaller biotechs to bring their products to market without significant capital expenditure.
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (Japan)
Takeda is a leading player in the APAC peptide therapeutics market, known for its strong pipeline of innovative peptides and global presence. The company focuses on developing targeted therapies for oncology, gastroenterology, and rare diseases. Its investment in R&D and strategic collaborations with biotech firms have strengthened its leadership position. Takeda's commitment to advancing peptide-based treatments has positioned it as a key contributor to both regional and global markets.
Hanmi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (South Korea)
Hanmi Pharmaceutical is recognized for its cutting-edge peptide development platforms such as ChemBridge and HiLep technology. The company has built a reputation for creating long-acting formulations and novel delivery systems that enhance therapeutic efficacy.
CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Limited (China)
CSPC is a major force in China’s peptide therapeutics landscape, with a focus on research, manufacturing, and commercialization of peptide-based drugs. The company has developed several patented technologies to improve drug stability and delivery. CSPC actively engages in international partnerships and adheres to global regulatory standards, which is making it a key exporter of peptide therapeutics from China.
One major strategy employed by key players in the APAC peptide therapeutics market is intensive investment in research and development. Companies are focusing on building proprietary peptide platforms and enhancing drug delivery mechanisms to improve bioavailability and efficacy. This includes forming partnerships with academic institutions and biotech startups to accelerate innovation.
Another critical approach is strategic collaborations and licensing agreements. Firms frequently engage in co-development deals and out-licensing of proprietary technologies to expand their product portfolios and access new markets. These alliances help companies reduce R&D costs while speeding up time-to-market for novel peptide therapeutics.
The expanding manufacturing capabilities and entering into contract manufacturing partnerships is a growing trend. Leading players are strengthening their production infrastructure and offering CDMO services to meet rising demand, especially from global biotech firms seeking cost-effective and compliant manufacturing solutions in the APAC region.
In February 2024, Hanmi Pharmaceutical announced a strategic collaboration with a U.S.-based biotech firm to co-develop a novel GLP-1 receptor agonist for metabolic disorders by aiming to expand its global footprint and diversify its pipeline.
In May 2024, Takeda Pharmaceutical entered into a licensing agreement with a European biotech startup to gain access to its proprietary peptide conjugation platform, which was intended to enhance the targeting precision of its oncology therapeutics.
In July 2024, CSPC Pharmaceutical Group launched a state-of-the-art peptide synthesis facility in Shijiazhuang, China, that was designed to increase production capacity and ensure compliance with international GMP standards.
In October 2024, PeptiDream expanded its operations into South Korea through a joint venture with a local research institute by focusing on discovery programs for autoimmune disease-targeting peptides.
In December 2024, Jubilant Life Sciences acquired a peptide-focused CDMO based in India to vertically integrate its offerings and strengthen its position as a preferred partner for global biopharma clients.
This research report on the apac peptide therapeutics market has been segmented and sub-segmented into the following categories
By Type
By Application
By Type of Manufacturers
By Route of Administration
By Synthesis Technology
By Country
Frequently Asked Questions
The APAC (Asia-Pacific) Peptide Therapeutics Market refers to the market for peptide-based drugs used in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of various diseases in the Asia-Pacific region.
Key contributors include China, Japan, India, South Korea, and Australia due to growing healthcare infrastructure, rising chronic disease prevalence, and increasing R&D investments.
Oncology and metabolic disorders (particularly diabetes) are the leading therapeutic areas in terms of revenue and demand.
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