Asia Pacific Veterinary Imaging Market

Asia Pacific Veterinary Imaging Market Size

The Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market was valued at USD 0.49 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 0.53 billion in 2025 from USD 0.99 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.03% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.

The Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market refers to the segment of veterinary healthcare that involves diagnostic imaging technologies used for the detection, monitoring, and treatment of diseases and injuries in animals. These technologies include digital radiography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), endoscopy, and nuclear imaging systems specifically adapted for animal care. Veterinary imaging plays a critical role in both companion and livestock animal diagnostics, enabling veterinarians to make accurate assessments without invasive procedures.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, the demand for high-quality animal healthcare has grown significantly across the region due to rising pet ownership, increasing livestock production, and greater awareness about animal welfare. In Japan, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries reported a notable rise in pet ownership, with over 20 million pets registered nationwide as of 2023, directly influencing demand for advanced veterinary diagnostics.

MARKET DRIVERS

Increasing Pet Ownership and Humanization of Pets

One of the primary drivers of the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market is the rising trend of pet ownership and the humanization of pets, which has led to increased spending on animal healthcare. As more people view pets as family members, there is a growing expectation for veterinary care that mirrors human medical diagnostics, including access to advanced imaging technologies. The demand for high-quality veterinary imaging continues to grow across the Asia Pacific region, with rising disposable incomes and emotional attachment to pets.

Expansion of Livestock Monitoring and Disease Surveillance Programs

Another significant driver of the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market is the increasing emphasis on livestock health monitoring and disease surveillance, especially in countries with large agricultural sectors. Governments and agribusinesses are investing in advanced imaging technologies to improve early disease detection, enhance breeding programs, and ensure food safety.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, countries like China, Thailand, and Vietnam have implemented national animal health monitoring frameworks that integrate imaging tools for diagnosing conditions such as foot-and-mouth disease, bovine respiratory disease, and reproductive disorders in cattle and swine.

As per the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, government-backed initiatives have expanded the use of portable ultrasound devices in rural farms to monitor pregnancy and detect abnormalities in livestock, which is leading to improved herd management and productivity. In India, the National Institute of Animal Health emphasized the importance of diagnostic imaging in controlling zoonotic diseases by noting a surge in mobile veterinary imaging units deployed in remote areas for early outbreak detection.

China’s Ministry of Agriculture also reported that veterinary diagnostic imaging usage in poultry and dairy farms increased substantially following the implementation of stricter biosecurity protocols post-pandemic.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

High Cost of Advanced Imaging Equipment and Limited Reimbursement Policies

A major restraint affecting the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market is the high cost associated with acquiring and maintaining advanced imaging equipment, such as MRI and CT scanners. These systems require significant capital investment, specialized infrastructure, and trained personnel by making them inaccessible to many private veterinary clinics and smaller animal hospitals.

Furthermore, limited reimbursement policies for veterinary diagnostics in most Asia Pacific countries discourage pet owners from opting for expensive imaging-based diagnoses. Unlike human healthcare, veterinary imaging services are rarely covered by insurance plans by limiting their adoption in both companion and livestock applications across the region.

Shortage of Trained Veterinary Radiologists and Technicians

Another key constraint impacting the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market is the shortage of trained veterinary radiologists and technicians capable of operating advanced imaging equipment and interpreting diagnostic results accurately. The complexity of these technologies requires specialized education and certification, which remains limited in many parts of the region.

According to the International Veterinary Radiology Association, the ratio of certified veterinary radiologists per clinic is significantly lower in developing economies such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and Bangladesh compared to developed markets like Australia and Japan.

As per the Japanese College of Veterinary Radiology, despite the growing number of veterinary schools offering radiology training, there is still a severe gap between demand and supply of qualified professionals, particularly in rural and semi-urban clinics.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Integration of AI and Telemedicine in Veterinary Diagnostics

A major opportunity shaping the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and telemedicine into veterinary diagnostics. As technology advances, AI-powered image analysis tools are being developed to assist veterinarians in interpreting X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRI scans with higher accuracy and efficiency.

According to Frost & Sullivan, AI-driven diagnostic platforms are gaining traction in South Korea and Japan, where veterinary hospitals are adopting machine learning algorithms to enhance early detection of conditions such as cancer, orthopedic anomalies, and cardiac diseases in pets.

In Australia, the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences launched a pilot program in 2023 that leverages cloud-based AI tools for remote diagnostics, allowing rural veterinarians to send imaging data to specialists for real-time interpretation. India’s National Institute of Animal Health has also begun exploring AI-assisted imaging in livestock diagnostics, aiming to improve disease screening and reduce reliance on manual interpretation.

Growth of Specialty Pet Clinics and Diagnostic Centers

The proliferation of specialty pet clinics and dedicated veterinary diagnostic centers across the Asia Pacific is creating new opportunities for the veterinary imaging market. As pet owners seek higher standards of care, these facilities are increasingly equipped with advanced imaging technologies to offer comprehensive diagnostic services.

According to the Asia Pacific Small Animal Veterinary Association, the number of multi-specialty veterinary clinics in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand increased by nearly 30% between 2021 and 2023. Many of these clinics now feature on-site digital X-ray, ultrasound, and even MRI units to support complex diagnostics.

In India, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry reported that over 150 new veterinary specialty centers opened in Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities between 2020 and 2023, many of which incorporated advanced imaging systems to attract premium pet care clients.

Australia has also seen a boom in veterinary imaging-equipped clinics, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne, where pet insurance coverage is more prevalent and pet owners expect hospital-grade diagnostics.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Regulatory Hurdles and Lack of Standardized Guidelines

A pressing challenge facing the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market is the inconsistency in regulatory requirements and the absence of standardized guidelines for veterinary diagnostic equipment. Each country in the region follows different approval processes, quality control measures, and licensing norms, complicating market entry for global manufacturers.

According to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), harmonization of medical device regulations remains incomplete, which is leading to prolonged approval timelines and increased compliance costs for companies introducing veterinary-specific imaging products.

Supply Chain Constraints and Equipment Import Dependencies

Another significant challenge affecting the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market is the dependence on imported imaging equipment and components, which exposes the industry to supply chain disruptions and fluctuating import costs. Most advanced veterinary imaging systems are manufactured in Europe and North America, requiring regional buyers to navigate logistics complexities and trade barriers.

According to McKinsey & Company, global semiconductor shortages and shipping container delays in 2023 impacted the availability of digital imaging systems in several Asia Pacific countries, causing lead times to extend beyond six months in some cases. The Institute for Supply Management reported that port congestion in China and Southeast Asia further exacerbated distribution inefficiencies, affecting both public and private veterinary institutions.

REPORT COVERAGE

SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS

By Product Insights

The X-ray imaging segment was the largest by occupying 34.5% of the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market in 2024. According to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, X-ray remains the most commonly used diagnostic imaging tool in veterinary clinics across India, China, and Southeast Asia due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of use. In Indonesia, the Indonesian Veterinary Medical Association reported that over 75% of private veterinary practices rely on digital radiography for routine diagnostics, particularly for orthopedic and thoracic assessments. In Australia, the Australian Veterinary Association noted that nearly 90% of rural and regional veterinary hospitals continue to use X-rays as a primary diagnostic method due to limited access to high-end imaging technologies.

The veterinary imaging software segment is likely to grow with a CAGR of 12.1% in the coming years. According to Frost & Sullivan, the integration of artificial intelligence into veterinary diagnostics has accelerated in Japan and South Korea, where AI-powered imaging analysis tools are being developed to enhance early detection of tumors, fractures, and cardiac anomalies in pets.

By Modality Insights

The stationary imaging systems segment is expected to hold a dominant share of the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market in 2024 due to their deployment in multi-specialty veterinary hospitals, academic institutions, and centralized diagnostic centers where fixed imaging capabilities are essential for complex diagnostics.

According to the Asia Pacific Small Animal Veterinary Association, major urban veterinary hospitals in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand have prioritized stationary systems such as CT and MRI scanners for comprehensive internal diagnostics, especially in small animal care.

The portable imaging systems segment is likely to register a CAGR of 10.9% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by the rising need for on-site diagnostics in livestock farms, emergency animal care, and mobile veterinary services. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, portable ultrasound devices are increasingly used in dairy and poultry farms across India and Vietnam to monitor reproductive health and detect early-stage diseases without transporting animals.

By Application Insights

The orthopedic applications segment accounted in holding 41.2% of the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market share in 2024. According to the Asia Pacific Small Animal Veterinary Association, joint-related conditions such as hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament injuries, and arthritis are among the most common ailments treated in veterinary clinics, necessitating regular use of X-ray and MRI imaging for accurate diagnosis.

The oncology applications segment is projected to witness a CAGR of 13.4% in the coming years. This surge is driven by the increasing prevalence of cancer in companion animals and the adoption of advanced imaging techniques for early tumor detection and treatment monitoring.

According to the International Veterinary Cancer Society, cancer rates in pets have risen significantly in recent years, particularly in aging dog populations, prompting greater use of CT and MRI scans for precise staging and radiation therapy planning.

By Animal Type Insights

The small animals segment led the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market with the largest share in 2024. According to the Japan Pet Food Association, pet ownership in Japan exceeded 22 million in 2023, making it one of the most pet-dense countries in the region. The association also reported a 20% annual increase in veterinary imaging usage for small animals, particularly in urban areas.

The large animal imaging segment is emerging with a projected CAGR of 11.2% in the coming years. This growth is primarily driven by increasing investments in livestock health, government-backed disease control programs, and the need for early diagnosis in dairy and meat-producing animals. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, the Asia Pacific accounts for nearly half of global livestock production, with countries like China, India, and Vietnam implementing nationwide animal health monitoring frameworks that incorporate imaging diagnostics.

COUNTRY LEVEL ANALYSIS

Japan was the top performer in the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market, contributing approximately 27% of regional revenue in 2024.

According to the Japan Pet Food Association, pet ownership in Japan reached an all-time high in 2023, with over 22 million registered pets, driving demand for premium veterinary diagnostics, including MRI and CT scans. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries has actively supported the integration of digital imaging into veterinary practice, particularly in urban and university-affiliated clinics.

Japanese veterinary device manufacturers such as Hitachi and Canon Electron Tubes & Devices have played a crucial role in advancing veterinary-specific imaging solutions, focusing on compact, high-resolution systems suitable for small animal diagnostics. Australia's veterinary imaging market held 19.4% of the share in 2024. The country leads in the deployment of premium veterinary imaging technologies, supported by strong regulatory oversight, high veterinary spending, and advanced agricultural practices.

According to the Australian Veterinary Association, over 85% of urban veterinary hospitals have integrated digital X-ray and ultrasound systems, with increasing adoption of MRI and CT scanners in specialized clinics. The University of Sydney’s Faculty of Veterinary Science reported a 20% rise in advanced imaging procedures between 2021 and 2023, reflecting broader trends toward precision diagnostics.

The Chinese veterinary imaging market is swiftly emerging with the rising pet ownership, increasing government funding for animal health research, and expanding veterinary hospital networks. Domestic companies such as Mindray and Landwind Medical have gained traction by offering cost-effective yet technologically advanced veterinary imaging solutions tailored for local needs. As per Frost & Sullivan, domestic brands now supply over 50% of imaging devices used in provincial veterinary hospitals.

India's veterinary imaging market growth is driven by a rapidly expanding veterinary healthcare infrastructure and growing emphasis on livestock disease monitoring. The country's growth is supported by government-led animal health programs and rising pet ownership in urban centers.

India’s Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has allocated funds to equip state-run veterinary hospitals with digital X-ray and ultrasound machines, facilitating better disease tracking and treatment.

South Korea's veterinary imaging market growth is driven by its advanced healthcare IT infrastructure and strong policy support for digital veterinary diagnostics. The country is known for its early adoption of AI-integrated imaging and cloud-based veterinary data management systems.

Australia's veterinary imaging market growth is driven by its well-developed healthcare system, high per capita veterinary expenditure, and strong emphasis on animal welfare.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, healthcare expenditure in the country reached AUD 240 billion (~USD 160 billion) in 2023, with significant investments directed toward upgrading hospital diagnostics and home monitoring programs. Nearly 85% of major veterinary hospitals in New South Wales and Victoria have integrated smart imaging systems to improve patient adherence and treatment outcomes.

KEY MARKET PLAYERS

GE Healthcare (US), Agfa-Gevaert N.V. (Belgium), Carestream Health (US),  Esaote S.p.A (Italy),  IDEXX Laboratories Inc. (US),  Mindray Medical International Limited (China), Canon Inc. (Japan),  Heska Corporation (US), Siemens Healthineers (Germany), FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation (Japan), Konica Minolta Inc. (Japan), Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (South Korea), and  E.I. Medical Imaging (US) are the market players that are dominating the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market.

Top Players In The Market

Hitachi, Ltd. is a leading global manufacturer of diagnostic imaging equipment and holds a strong presence in the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio including ultrasound systems, MRI scanners, and digital X-ray solutions tailored for animal healthcare applications. Hitachi’s focus on high-resolution imaging, AI-integrated diagnostics, and system interoperability has positioned it as a preferred supplier in university veterinary hospitals and multi-specialty clinics across Japan and Australia.

Canon Electron Tubes & Devices Company, a division of Canon Inc., is a key player in the veterinary imaging market, known for its advanced digital radiography and computed tomography systems designed for both small and large animals. In the Asia Pacific region, Canon has strengthened its market presence through strategic collaborations with veterinary institutions and government-backed animal health programs. The company emphasizes compact, high-performance imaging technologies that cater to urban veterinary clinics and mobile farm units alike.

Mindray Medical International Limited, headquartered in China, is a prominent contributor to the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market. As one of the leading manufacturers of ultrasound and digital X-ray equipment, Mindray delivers cost-effective yet technologically advanced imaging solutions tailored for diverse veterinary applications. The company has successfully expanded its reach across Southeast Asia by offering scalable imaging platforms compatible with both companion and livestock diagnostics.

Top Strategies Used by Key Market Participants

One of the primary strategies employed by leading companies in the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market is product innovation and digital integration. Firms are investing heavily in R&D to develop AI-assisted diagnostic tools, cloud-based image management systems, and portable imaging devices that enhance usability and accessibility. These innovations cater to the growing demand for precision diagnostics and remote veterinary consultations.

Another major approach is expansion through localized distribution networks and strategic partnerships. Companies are forming alliances with regional veterinary associations, hospital chains, and government bodies to improve product penetration and awareness. Collaborations with telemedicine providers also help bridge the gap between rural veterinary practitioners and specialist imaging interpretation services.

COMPETITION OVERVIEW

The competition in the Asia Pacific veterinary imaging market is marked by a blend of global medical technology giants and emerging regional players striving to capture the growing demand driven by rising pet ownership, expanding livestock industries, and heightened awareness around animal health. Multinational corporations leverage their established brand reputation, technological expertise, and extensive distribution networks to maintain dominance, while domestic firms focus on affordability, customization, and rapid deployment in underserved areas. The market reflects a dynamic mix of innovation, pricing strategies, and evolving clinical expectations, all of which influence vendor positioning. Strategic moves such as new product launches, partnerships with academic institutions, and investments in training programs are becoming essential to sustain growth. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and mobile diagnostics is reshaping the landscape, compelling firms to continuously evolve and adapt to stay ahead. While developed markets like Japan and Australia exhibit mature adoption trends, countries such as India and Indonesia present significant untapped potential by making the Asia Pacific a highly fragmented and rapidly transforming competitive arena.

RECENT HAPPENINGS IN THE MARKET

• In February 2024, Hitachi launched a new line of AI-enhanced ultrasound systems specifically designed for veterinary diagnostics in South Korea. This initiative was aimed at strengthening its foothold in the premium veterinary imaging segment and supporting the country’s growing emphasis on digital veterinary care.
• In August 2023, Canon announced a strategic collaboration with an Australian veterinary research institute to integrate its CT imaging systems into animal disease monitoring programs. This partnership was intended to reinforce Canon’s presence in academic and specialty veterinary hospitals across Oceania.
• In November 2024, Mindray expanded its manufacturing facility in Shenzhen, China, to increase production capacity and accelerate the development of next-generation veterinary ultrasound systems. This move was aimed at improving supply chain efficiency and meeting rising demand from Southeast Asian markets.
• In May 2023, Esaote introduced a value-priced digital X-ray unit specifically designed for low-income veterinary practices in the Philippines and Vietnam. Distributed through local distributors, the system was developed to address affordability barriers while maintaining diagnostic reliability.
• In January 2024, Fujifilm Healthcare entered into a joint venture with a leading Indian veterinary diagnostics firm to expand its imaging software offerings in the region. This initiative was aimed at enhancing data management capabilities and integrating cloud-based veterinary imaging platforms across private and public animal health institutions.

MARKET SEGMENTATION

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

By Product

• Ultrasound (2D, 3D, Doppler)
• CT
• X-Ray
• MRI; Contrast Reagent; Software

By Modality

• Stationary
• Portable

By Application

• Ortho
• OB/GYN,
• Cancer
• Animal (Small, Large)
• End User (Clinic, Hospital)

By Country

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