Asia Pacific Gastrointestinal Drugs Market

Asia Pacific Gastrointestinal Drugs Market Size

The size of the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market was worth USD 9.1 billion in 2024. The Asia Pacific market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2025 to 2033 and be worth USD 19.28 billion by 2033 from USD 9.89 billion in 2025.

The Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market is driven by the rising prevalence of digestive disorders encompassing a broad range of pharmaceutical products aimed at treating conditions such as acid peptic disease, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, gastrointestinal cancers and infections. As the region experiences rapid urbanization along with changing dietary habits and an aging population, the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders has risen sharply in recent years. Lifestyle-related conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and functional dyspepsia have become increasingly common across both developed and developing economies within the region. Healthcare infrastructure improvements in emerging markets such as India, Indonesia and Vietnam are contributing to greater diagnosis rates and treatment accessibility. Pharmaceutical companies are responding to this trend with targeted drug development and localized marketing strategies. Moreover, the expansion of biologics and biosimilars in treating complex GI conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis is reshaping the therapeutic landscape.

MARKET DRIVERS

Rising Prevalence of Digestive Disorders Across Urban Populations

Rising prevalence of digestive disorders fueled by lifestyle changes and rapid urbanization stands as one of the most significant drivers of the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market. Sedentary lifestyles, high-stress environments and Western-style diets rich in fats and processed foods have led to a surge in conditions such as GERD, functional dyspepsia and peptic ulcers. In India, nearly 18.74% of urban dwellers experience symptoms related to acid peptic disease. This rising disease burden directly translates into increased demand for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers and prokinetics which form the core of GI disorder treatment protocols. More than 40.09% of patients in Southeast Asia rely on prescription medications for managing chronic GI symptoms. Demand for effective gastrointestinal treatments is expected to surge as urban centers like Delhi, Tokyo and Jakarta continue to grow which further drives market expansion

Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure and Accessibility in Emerging Economies

Expansion of healthcare infrastructure and improved access to medical services in emerging economies is another key driver fueling the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market. Countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines have significantly enhanced their healthcare delivery systems through government-backed initiatives and private sector investments. Hospital bed availability per 1,000 people in Indonesia increased by nearly 25.43% from 2017 to 2022, while Vietnam saw a 30.5% rise over the same period. Improved healthcare access has resulted in higher diagnosis rates of gastrointestinal diseases particularly in rural areas where such illnesses were often underreported or misdiagnosed. A 40% increase in endoscopic procedures performed nationwide between 2019 and 2023 reflects improved detection and diagnosis of gastrointestinal pathologies. Additionally, national health insurance schemes such as Thailand’s Universal Coverage Scheme and Indonesia’s Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional (JKN) have expanded coverage for outpatient and inpatient treatments and included gastrointestinal therapies.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

High Cost of Biologic Therapies for Chronic GI Diseases

The high cost of biologic therapies for chronic GI diseases remains a major restraint impeding the growth of the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market particularly in the treatment of conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Biologics including TNF-alpha inhibitors like infliximab and adalimumab are significantly more expensive compared to conventional treatments such as corticosteroids and immunomodulators. The average annual cost of biologic therapy in Japan exceeds $20,000 per patient thereby placing substantial financial pressure on both individuals and public health systems. In emerging markets like Malaysia and the Philippines, affordability remains a critical barrier to widespread adoption. Even in relatively advanced economies such as Australia out-of-pocket costs for biologics remain high despite government rebates. This pricing challenge limits patient access and discourages physicians from prescribing newer and more effective therapies unless absolutely necessary.

Stringent Regulatory Requirements for Drug Approvals

Stringent regulatory frameworks across several Asia Pacific countries pose a considerable challenge to the timely approval and commercialization of new gastrointestinal drugs. National regulatory authorities such as Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) and Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) enforce rigorous clinical trial requirements often leading to extended approval timelines compared to other global markets. The average time for drug approval in Japan is nearly 14 months compared to 10 months in the United States. In India Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) introduced revised Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines in 2021 that mandated more detailed pharmacovigilance data, slowing down the approval process for new GI medications. Nearly 30.84% of new drug applications for GI therapies were delayed due to non-compliance with updated documentation norms. These delays not only hinder the introduction of innovative treatments but also reduce the competitiveness of pharmaceutical firms operating in the region.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Growth of Biosimilar Development for GI Treatments

Growth of biosimilar development for GI treatments presents a promising opportunity in the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market as it helps address the high cost burden of therapies for inflammatory bowel diseases. Local manufacturers in countries such as South Korea, India and China are capitalizing on patent expirations of originator biologics like Remicade (infliximab) to meet the growing demand for cost-effective alternatives. South Korea stands out as a leader in biosimilar innovation with companies such as Celltrion and Samsung Bioepis gaining international recognition for their manufacturing capabilities. Biosimilar infliximab captured over 60.02% of the market share in South Korea within two years of launch thereby demonstrating strong acceptance among prescribers and payers. In India, government-led initiatives promoting affordable healthcare have created a favorable environment for biosimilar proliferation resulting in a 25.22% reduction in treatment costs for IBD patients following the introduction of biosimilars in 2020.

Expansion of Digital Health Platforms for GI Disease Management

The rapid adoption of digital health technologies presents a transformative opportunity for the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market. Telemedicine platforms, mobile health apps and AI-driven diagnostics are playing an increasing role in early detection, monitoring and treatment adherence for GI disorders. The digital health market in the Asia Pacific is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 20.83% between 2023 and 2030 driven by smartphone penetration and government e-health initiatives. China leads in digital health integration with platforms such as WeDoctor and Ping An Good Doctor offering virtual consultations for digestive diseases. The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology collaborated with Fujitsu to develop an AI-based system that assists in diagnosing colorectal cancer from endoscopic images. This system achieved a 95.62% accuracy rate in clinical trials thereby enhancing diagnostic efficiency. In India, startups like Phable and DocsApp are providing remote follow-up care for chronic GI patients, thus improving medication adherence and reducing hospital readmissions.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Limited Awareness and Stigma Around GI Diseases in Rural Areas

Limited awareness and stigma around GI diseases in rural areas remain persistent challenges in the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market. Misinformation, cultural taboos and lack of education about GI health lead to underreporting and delayed diagnosis, especially in countries like India, Bangladesh parts of Southeast Asia. Only 35.76% of rural populations in India seek medical help for digestive symptoms within the first six months of onset. Stigma around conditions like hemorrhoids, constipation and even colorectal cancer prevents patients from consulting healthcare professionals. In rural Odisha, nearly 50.51% of patients self-medicate using over-the-counter remedies instead of visiting a doctor. This results in suboptimal treatment outcomes and increases the risk of complications. Furthermore, low literacy levels and poor outreach programs hinder the dissemination of accurate information regarding available therapies and preventive measures. Public health campaigns aimed at addressing these gaps remain inconsistent across the region. While countries like Japan and Australia have robust GI awareness initiatives, many lower-income nations struggle with resource allocation.

Supply Chain Constraints in Remote and Island Nations

Supply chain inefficiencies present a significant challenge to the accessibility and distribution of gastrointestinal drugs across remote and island nations in the Asia Pacific. Countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea and Fiji face logistical difficulties in transporting medicines to dispersed and hard-to-reach locations. Roughly 40.81% of healthcare facilities in rural Indonesia experience frequent stockouts of essential medicines. Infrastructure deficiencies such as inadequate road networks, limited cold storage facilities and unreliable transportation contribute to these supply bottlenecks. In the Philippines, 30.05% of barangays (villages) in Mindanao and Visayas regions had irregular medicine supplies due to maritime transport limitations. These disruptions prevent consistent access to critical GI medications such as antibiotics for Helicobacter pylori eradication and antiemetics for nausea control. Moreover, customs regulations and import tariffs further complicate the smooth flow of pharmaceuticals. Addressing these logistical hurdles requires coordinated efforts between governments, distributors and manufacturers to ensure reliable access to GI treatments across all parts of the region.

REPORT COVERAGE

SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS

By Application Insights

The GERD segment was the largest in the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market by capturing 28.71% of the total market share as of 2024. This dominance is primarily driven by the rising prevalence of lifestyle-induced digestive disorders across both urban and semi-urban populations. Sedentary work cultures, high consumption of fatty and processed foods and increasing obesity levels have contributed to a surge in GERD cases. One in four adults in China and India suffer from GERD with urban centers reporting even higher incidences. Another key driver is the widespread prescription of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) which are considered first-line treatment options for GERD. In Japan, where dietary habits are rapidly shifting prescriptions for omeprazole and esomeprazole have increased significantly thereby further reinforcing the segment’s stronghold.

The IBS is projected to witness the fastest CAGR of 9.2% from 2025 to 2033. This rapid growth can be attributed to heightened awareness around functional gastrointestinal disorders and improved diagnostic capabilities. IBS was historically underdiagnosed due to its non-specific symptoms unlike structural diseases such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis.IBS affects up to 15.09% of the population across Southeast Asia with Malaysia and Thailand witnessing a 30.33% increase in diagnosed cases since 2020. Additionally, pharmaceutical companies have introduced targeted therapies such as serotonin receptor modulators and antibiotics like rifaximin which have expanded treatment options. Prescription volumes for IBS medications in South Korea rose by 22.07% over two years which is driven by greater physician confidence in diagnosing the condition. IBS is becoming a focal point for innovation and investment in the GI pharmaceutical space coupled with growing consumer health literacy and digital symptom tracking tools.

By Route of Administration Insights

The oral route segment dominated the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market by capturing 67.82% of the total market share in 2024. This dominance is largely attributable to the ease of use, broad acceptance among patients and compatibility with a wide range of formulations such as tablets, capsules and suspensions. Acid peptic diseases affect over 200 million individuals in China and India alone thereby driving extensive use of oral GI medications. In Japan where self-medication is common, a significant proportion of OTC gastrointestinal drugs sold are oral antacids and proton pump inhibitors reflecting strong consumer preference for non-invasive treatment options. Moreover, regulatory support for generics has enabled cost-effective oral therapies to reach mass markets quickly.
The injectable gastrointestinal drugs segment is estimated to register a fastest CAGR of 10.5% from 2025 to 2033 . This surge is primarily driven by the increasing use of biologics and monoclonal antibodies for treating severe inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Intravenous infliximab and subcutaneous adalimumab offer faster onset of action and improved therapeutic outcomes particularly for patients unresponsive to conventional oral treatments. In South Korea, over 40.87% of moderate-to-severe IBD patients received injectable biologic therapy in 2023. Another contributing factor is the expansion of biosimilar injectables which reduce therapy costs. Celltrion’s biosimilar version of infliximab captured 25.87% of the Japanese hospital market within two years of launch.

By Distribution Channel Insights

The hospital pharmacies segment held the leading share of 48.9% of the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market in 2024. This dominance is tied to the complexity of many GI conditions particularly inflammatory bowel diseases and GI cancers which require specialist-driven care and prescription management. Hospitals remain the primary setting for diagnosis, infusion-based therapies and follow-up treatments especially in countries with centralized healthcare systems.In China, over 70.98% of biologic prescriptions for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease originate from tertiary hospitals where infusion therapies are administered directly. The Indian government's Ayushman Bharat scheme has also increased access to hospital-based GI care with a 30.52% rise in hospital pharmacy dispensing of GI drugs recorded between 2020 and 2023

The online pharmacies segment is likely to experience the fastest CAGR of 12.4% between 2025 and 2033, with projections indicating sustained momentum through the decade. This growth is fueled by the increasing adoption of digital health platforms, rising smartphone penetration and policy reforms enabling e-pharmacy operations. Consumers in countries like India, Indonesia and the Philippines are increasingly turning to online platforms for convenient and discreet access to GI medications including OTC antacids, laxatives and antidiarrheals. Platforms such as Apollo Pharmacy, MedLife and Netmeds have integrated symptom checkers and telemedicine consultations thereby enhancing user trust and medication adherence. In Singapore, over 22.09% increase in GI drug orders via licensed digital pharmacies in 2023 thereby reflecting evolving consumer behavior. Regulatory clarity and logistics advancements continue to support this shift as a result online pharmacies are positioned as a dynamic force reshaping how GI drugs are accessed across the region.

By Drug Class Insights

The antacids segment was the largest drug class segment and held 25.3% of global market share in 2024. Their dominance is driven by widespread use in managing mild to moderate symptoms of acid reflux, dyspepsia and gastritis. The widespread availability of over-the-counter antacids combined with their fast-acting relief is making them a popular choice among consumers particularly in densely populated countries such as India and China. Antacid sales in India reached INR 35 billion in 2022 with brands like Digene, Gelusil and Mylanta maintaining strong retail presence. In China, OTC antacid prescriptions accounted for nearly 40.61% of all GI-related purchases representing their integral role in primary care. Additionally, the integration of traditional remedies with modern antacid formulations such as herbal-infused chewable tablets has boosted consumer appeal across diverse demographics. The low cost of production and high repeat purchase rate further reinforce the strength of this segment thereby ensuring its leading position in the regional market.

The antiulcer drugs segment is expected to grow with a CAGR of 11.7% from 2025 to 2033 . This growth is primarily driven by the increasing incidence of Helicobacter pylori infections, stress-induced ulcers and NSAID-associated gastric damage across both developed and developing economies. The rising prescription of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2-receptor antagonists for long-term ulcer management is fueling demand. Asia accounts for over 70.08% of global Helicobacter pylori infections with high prevalence rates in Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines. In response, healthcare providers are adopting more aggressive eradication protocols thereby incorporating dual and triple therapies that include antiulcer agents. Growing awareness of gastrointestinal complications linked to long-term NSAID use in aging populations especially in countries like Japan and South Korea is further driving demand for effective antiulcer therapies

COUNTRY-LEVEL ANALYSIS

China outperformed other regions in the gastrointestinal drugs market by accounting for 28.51% of total regional market share in 2024. The country’s vast population, rising disposable incomes and increasing prevalence of lifestyle-associated GI disorders such as GERD and IBS have driven substantial demand. Over 200 million individuals suffer from acid-related diseases which created a robust patient base for both branded and generic therapies. Additionally, strong investments in domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing have positioned China as both a consumer and exporter of GI medications. Domestic production of proton pump inhibitors increased by 19.29% in 2022, which was supported by government incentives for local drugmakers.

Japan was positioned second in holding the dominant share of the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market in 2024. The country’s aging demographic profile plays a pivotal role in shaping demand as older populations are more prone to chronic GI conditions such as peptic ulcers, constipation and colorectal cancer. Over 30.37% of Japan’s population is aged above 65 with gastrointestinal disorders being one of the leading causes of hospitalization in this group. Japan’s well-developed healthcare system ensures high drug penetration and is supported by universal health coverage and favorable reimbursement policies. Furthermore, the country is a hub for innovative biologic therapies with domestic firms like Takeda actively involved in advancing next-generation GI treatments.

India’s gastrointestinal drugs market is likely to have significant growth opportunities during forecast period which is driven by a combination of epidemiological transition, urbanization and the world’s largest generic drug manufacturing base. Over 60 million Indians suffer from GERD while irritable bowel syndrome affects nearly 15.06% of the population. India’s pharmaceutical industry plays a critical role in supplying affordable GI medications not only domestically but also globally. GI drug exports grew by 12.32% in 2022 with a significant portion going to African and Southeast Asian markets. Additionally, initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana have improved access to prescription GI therapies for lower-income groups.

Australia’s gastrointestinal drugs market growth is driven by a highly developed healthcare system, comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong emphasis on early diagnosis and treatment of GI disorders. Digestive diseases account for over 10.98% of all hospitalizations with IBD and colorectal cancer being prominent contributors. Biologic therapies are widely adopted in Australia due to favorable reimbursement policies managed by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) . The Crohn's & Colitis Australia Foundation notes that over 80,000 Australians live with inflammatory bowel disease and the majority receive advanced injectable therapies. Additionally, the country serves as a regional testing ground for new GI drug launches with multinational firms leveraging its regulatory efficiency and clinical trial infrastructure.

South Korea’s gastrointestinal drugs market growth is likely to have fastest growth opportunities in the next coming years.The country has emerged as a leader in biologics and biosimilar development particularly in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Local manufacturers such as Celltrion and Samsung Bioepis have gained international recognition exporting biosimilar versions of infliximab and adalimumab to both domestic and overseas markets.IBD prevalence has doubled over the past decade with over 100,000 diagnosed cases in 2023 thereby necessitating more advanced therapies. Government-backed initiatives including streamlined approval pathways and pricing reforms have accelerated biologic uptake. Biosimilars now account for 40.38% of the TNF-alpha inhibitor market which makes South Korea a model case for biologic affordability and accessibility.

KEY MARKET PLAYERS

Some of the noteworthy companies in the APAC gastrointestinal drugs market profiled in this report are Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Astellas Pharma Inc., Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Cipla Ltd., Abbott Laboratories, AstraZeneca PLC, Eisai Co., Ltd., Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited, Pfizer Inc., GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK), Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc., Kalbe Farma, Mankind Pharma, and Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals.

TOP LEADING PLAYERS IN THE MARKET

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited

Takeda is a dominant force in the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market leveraging its strong research and development capabilities to deliver innovative therapies. The company has a robust portfolio that includes treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, acid-related disorders and rare GI conditions. With a deep-rooted presence in Japan and expanding influence across Southeast Asia, Takeda plays a crucial role in shaping therapeutic standards.

Astellas Pharma Inc.

Astellas has established itself as a key player in the Asia Pacific GI drugs sector by focusing on urological and gastrointestinal therapies. The company’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its pipeline of novel treatments targeting irritable bowel syndrome and other functional GI disorders. Astellas leverages a strong domestic base in Japan and extends its reach through partnerships and licensing agreements across emerging markets.

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd.

Dr. Reddy’s is a leading generic drug manufacturer with significant influence in the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market. The company recognized for delivering cost-effective yet high-quality products offers a comprehensive range of gastrointestinal medications including antacids and ulcer treatments. Its vertically integrated business model allows for efficient production and rapid response to fluctuating demand. Dr. Reddy’s exports extensively to ASEAN countries and Australia along with India.

TOP STRATEGIES USED BY KEY MARKET PARTICIPANTS

Expanding product portfolios through research and development is one major strategy employed by leading players in the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market. Companies are investing heavily in clinical trials and new drug formulations to address unmet medical needs especially in treating chronic conditions like IBD and GERD. This not only enhances treatment efficacy but also helps companies differentiate themselves in a crowded market.

Another key approach is strategic partnerships and collaborations with local manufacturers, academic institutions and biotech firms. These alliances help multinational companies navigate complex regulatory environments which reduces time-to-market and tailor products to regional patient profiles. Collaborations also facilitate knowledge sharing and co-development of novel therapeutic solutions.

Firms are increasingly adopting market expansion and localization strategies particularly in emerging economies. The reduce costs and enhance accessibility thereby strengthening their long-term market presence by establishing regional manufacturing units and distribution networks many companies improve supply chain efficiency.

COMPETITION OVERVIEW

The competition in the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market is marked by a dynamic mix of global pharmaceutical giants and regional players vying for dominance in an expanding therapeutic space. Multinational corporations leverage their R&D capabilities, brand recognition and extensive distribution networks to maintain a competitive edge particularly in developed markets like Japan and Australia. Local and generic drug manufacturers capitalize on cost advantages and regulatory familiarity to gain traction in emerging economies such as India, China and Southeast Asian nations. The market is witnessing intensified rivalry due to increasing disease prevalence and rising consumer awareness along with growing pressure to offer affordable treatment options. Innovation remains a key battleground with companies racing to develop advanced therapies including biologics and biosimilars to cater to complex GI conditions. Strategic mergers, acquisitions and partnerships are also shaping the competitive landscape which allows firms to strengthen their foothold and respond swiftly to changing market dynamics. Regulatory reforms and pricing pressures further influence competitive behavior compelling companies to strike a balance between commercial sustainability and expanding access to care.

RECENT MARKET DEVELOPMENTS

• In February 2024, Takeda Pharmaceutical announced a collaboration with a South Korean biotech firm to co-develop next-generation biosimilars for inflammatory bowel disease.
• In July 2023, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories launched a localized formulation of a widely used proton pump inhibitor tailored for the Indonesian market.
• In November 2024, Astellas Pharma entered into a licensing agreement with a Thai-based pharmaceutical company to distribute its newly approved IBS medication across Southeast Asia.
• In March 2023, Sanofi partnered with a digital health startup in India to integrate AI-driven diagnostics into GI treatment pathways.
• In September 2024, AstraZeneca expanded its manufacturing facility in Singapore to increase production capacity for its acid reflux medications.

MARKET SEGMENTATION

This Asia Pacific gastrointestinal drugs market research report is segmented and sub-segmented into the following categories.

By Application

• Crohn’s Disease
• Ulcerative Colitis
• GERD
• IBS

• Others

By Route of Administration

• Oral
• Injectable
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Hospital Pharmacies
• Retail Pharmacies
• Online Pharmacies

By Drug Class

• Laxatives
• Anti-emetics
• Anti-diarrheal
• Antacids
• Antiulcer
• Others

By Country

• India
• China
• Japan
• South Korea
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Thailand
• Malaysia
• Vietnam
• Philippines
• Indonesia
• Singapore
• Rest Of APAC