Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment Market By Product (Personal Protective Equipment, Offensive Equipment), By End User (Law Enforcement, Special Forces), By Country, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview:

Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment Market was valued at USD 4.41 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 5.92 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.02% during the forecast period. Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment market is experiencing robust growth driven by increasing demand for advanced non-lethal technologies, rising urban unrest, and growing emphasis on public safety and law enforcement efficiency. For instance, in 2024, nearly half of the world’s population participated in a ‘super-cycle’ of elections, with significant events including the U.S. presidential race in November and the European Parliament elections in June. Public protests had doubled in the decade from 2010 to 2020, with notable movements in Europe and India. Environmental activism incidents rose by 120% between 2022 and 2023, and terrorism deaths increased despite a decrease in incidents. Modernization of police and security forces, combined with the adoption of crowd management solutions like tear gas launchers, water cannons, and protective gear, is fueling market expansion. Technological innovations such as smart surveillance integration, automated deployment systems, and wearable non-lethal devices are enhancing operational effectiveness and officer safety, creating significant opportunities for manufacturers.

Market Drivers

Rising Demand for Non-Lethal Technologies

The growing emphasis on maintaining public safety without causing fatalities has significantly increased the demand for non-lethal riot control equipment. Law enforcement agencies and security organizations are increasingly adopting tools such as rubber bullets, tear gas launchers, water cannons, stun guns, and protective gear that minimize physical harm. These technologies allow authorities to manage large crowds, protests, or violent outbreaks while adhering to legal and ethical standards. Non-lethal technologies have advanced in precision, effectiveness, and portability, making them more attractive for rapid deployment in diverse situations. Increasing awareness of human rights and pressure from advocacy groups also encourage the use of non-lethal measures, creating a strong market pull. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to improve the accuracy, durability, and safety of these systems, which in turn drives market growth.

Technological Advancements in Equipment

Rapid technological innovation is reshaping the riot control equipment industry. Manufacturers are introducing smart, automated, and connected solutions that allow real-time monitoring, precision targeting, and efficient crowd management. Innovations include drones for aerial surveillance, AI-assisted detection systems, smart wearable gear for officers, and remote-controlled water cannons. These technologies enhance response time, operational safety, and situational awareness, enabling security personnel to manage civil disturbances more effectively. Development of lightweight, portable, and durable equipment improves field efficiency, allowing rapid deployment during emergencies. Integration of sensors and communication networks ensures coordinated responses, reducing risks to both officers and civilians.

Increased Government Spending on Public Safety

Rising concerns about civil unrest, terrorism, and mass gatherings are prompting governments to allocate higher budgets toward public safety infrastructure, including riot control equipment. Investment in modern policing tools, crowd management solutions, and emergency preparedness programs has become a strategic priority. Funding focuses on procurement of advanced non-lethal weapons, protective gear, and integrated surveillance systems that enhance law enforcement efficiency. Budget increases also support training programs for personnel, enabling optimal use of riot control equipment under various scenarios. Government contracts provide manufacturers with stable revenue streams and encourage innovation through competitive bidding processes. For instance, In the fiscal year 2024–25, India's police training budget was allocated ₹2,208 crore (approximately $2.52 billion), marking a 39% increase from the previous year's revised estimates. Uttar Pradesh, with the nation's largest police force of over 269,000 personnel, received more than a quarter of this allocation. While the actual expenditure in 2022–23 saw a modest 10% rise compared to 2021–22, the budget allocation for 2024–25 reflects a significant commitment to enhancing police training and infrastructure. Justice-related expenditures across Indian states averaged 4.3% of their total budgets in 2024–25.

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Key Market Challenges

High Cost of Advanced Equipment

The increasing sophistication of riot control equipment has led to higher procurement and maintenance costs, posing a significant challenge for widespread adoption. Advanced tools such as AI-enabled drones, smart surveillance systems, and automated water cannons require substantial investment in technology, training, and upkeep. Limited budgets for smaller municipalities or law enforcement agencies restrict access to these high-performance solutions. High acquisition costs can delay procurement cycles and reduce scalability of deployment in multiple operational areas. Maintenance and repair of sophisticated devices add recurring expenses, requiring skilled personnel and specialized service support.

Regulatory and Ethical Constraints

Riot control equipment is subject to strict legal and ethical regulations that govern its use, presenting challenges for manufacturers and users alike. Regulations dictate permissible types of equipment, deployment procedures, and acceptable levels of force to prevent human rights violations or unintended harm. Complex legal frameworks vary across countries and jurisdictions, requiring compliance with safety standards, certification protocols, and operational guidelines. Ethical concerns related to crowd management, non-lethal ammunition, and civilian safety can influence policy changes, affecting product design and deployment strategies. Misuse or overuse of riot control equipment can lead to litigation, reputational damage, and reduced public trust in authorities.

Key Market Trends

Integration of AI and IoT for Smart Deployment

Artificial intelligence and Internet of Things technologies are increasingly integrated into riot control equipment for smarter, data-driven deployment. AI-powered surveillance systems can detect threats, analyze crowd behavior, and predict potential disturbances in real time, allowing proactive responses. IoT-enabled devices provide seamless communication between equipment and command centers, ensuring coordinated action during civil unrest. Smart wearables for personnel monitor health, location, and stress levels, enhancing safety and efficiency. Drones equipped with AI and IoT capabilities offer aerial monitoring, enabling rapid assessment and intervention. The integration of these technologies transforms traditional riot control strategies, emphasizing precision, automation, and situational awareness. For instance, China’s surveillance system has become a global apparatus, monitoring citizens domestically and abroad, with over 500 million cameras and the Sharp Eyes Project enabling full coverage. Politically sensitive sites like Tiananmen Square are tightly monitored, while transnational repression targets activists, ethnic minorities, and dissidents across 36 countries, with 253 incidents documented between 2014–2022. Digital tools, including AI-driven social media analysis, spyware, and WeChat, are combined with 102 overseas police service stations and proxy intimidation through family members in China. Rapid advances in AI and quantum computing expand these capabilities, while Chinese surveillance exports influence allied authoritarian regimes. Democratic nations struggle to respond due to resource and legal limitations, and domestic narratives framing surveillance as public safety normalize these measures.

Demand for Portable and Lightweight Equipment

Law enforcement agencies increasingly prioritize mobility and rapid deployment, driving demand for portable and lightweight riot control equipment. Compact water cannons, foldable shields, and wearable protective gear enable officers to respond quickly to disturbances without being encumbered by heavy equipment. Lightweight ammunition and modular non-lethal tools improve operational flexibility and endurance in field scenarios. Portability allows smaller units to manage incidents efficiently and ensures ease of transport, storage, and maintenance. Equipment designed for ergonomic use reduces fatigue and injury risk, enhancing performance during prolonged deployments. The trend toward portability aligns with evolving operational requirements for fast, agile, and versatile response teams capable of handling diverse civil unrest scenarios. Manufacturers focusing on compact and efficient designs are likely to gain a competitive advantage as agencies prioritize mobility and effectiveness.

Adoption of Eco-Friendly and Safer Solutions

Environmental and safety concerns are driving the development of eco-friendly riot control equipment that reduces collateral damage and minimizes ecological impact. Non-lethal ammunition with biodegradable components, chemical-free dispersal systems, and reusable protective gear are gaining attention. Safer solutions also focus on minimizing long-term health effects on both officers and civilians, with improved accuracy and controlled deployment mechanisms. Regulatory pressures and public scrutiny encourage adoption of products that meet safety and sustainability standards. Manufacturers are exploring alternative materials, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally responsible production processes to align with global sustainability initiatives.

Segmental Insights

End User Insights

In 2024, law enforcement emerged as the dominant end user segment in Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment market, reflecting heightened focus on maintaining public order and ensuring citizen safety. Police and municipal security agencies are increasingly investing in advanced non-lethal tools such as tear gas launchers, water cannons, rubber bullets, and protective gear to manage protests, demonstrations, and urban unrest efficiently. Modernization initiatives within law enforcement departments emphasize rapid deployment, operational safety, and precision, driving adoption of technologically advanced solutions. Integration of surveillance systems, AI-enabled monitoring, and communication networks allows officers to coordinate crowd control operations with enhanced situational awareness, improving response effectiveness. Growing demand for portable, lightweight, and ergonomic equipment supports mobility and reduces operational fatigue during extended deployments.

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Country Insights

In 2024, China emerged as the dominant region in Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment market, driven by extensive investments in public safety infrastructure and modernization of law enforcement agencies. Rising urbanization, large population centers, and increasing civil unrest scenarios have created strong demand for advanced non-lethal technologies, including water cannons, tear gas launchers, protective gear, and crowd management systems. Integration of AI-assisted surveillance, smart monitoring systems, and real-time communication networks enhances operational efficiency, enabling rapid response during disturbances. For instance, China’s 2024 budget allocates 769 billion yuan (~$100 billion) to domestic security, exceeding military spending to manage unrest in regions like Xinjiang and Tibet. Rising internal incidents drive demand for advanced riot control equipment.

India stands as the second-largest market in the region, fueled by ongoing initiatives to strengthen law enforcement capabilities and improve urban security. Increasing investments in non-lethal riot control technologies, coupled with a growing emphasis on organized crowd management, have amplified adoption. Training programs, budget allocations for modern equipment, and heightened awareness of ethical crowd control practices contribute to India’s significant market share.

Recent Developments

• ​In 2023, China unveiled a new electromagnetic gun designed for riot control. The gun uses electromagnetic pulses to disperse crowds, providing an alternative to traditional non-lethal weapons. This innovation in crowd control technology has raised concerns and sparked debates over the implications of using such advanced systems for managing public unrest. The move is part of China’s broader efforts to modernize its security forces with cutting-edge tools to maintain order during large-scale protests or civil disturbances.
• In 2025, India launched the Centre for Police Technology to connect law enforcement with tech providers, promoting smart policing through AI-driven surveillance, digital forensics, riot control tools, and collaborative training.
• In August 2025, Indonesian riot police clashed with students protesting lawmakers’ high housing allowances of 50 million rupiah (~$3,075) per month. Tear gas and water cannons were used as demonstrators tried to breach parliament, highlighting public discontent over corruption and inequality.
• In August 2025, Thailand used a Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) at the Thai-Cambodian border in Sa Kaeo to disperse encroaching crowds. Miscommunication caused some to mistake the sound for poison gas, highlighting challenges in deploying non-lethal crowd-control technologies.

Key Market Players

• CBW Agencia
• Desert Wolf
• Axon Enterprise, Inc.
• PACEM Defense
• Genasys Inc.
• Safariland LLC
• NonLethal Technologies Inc
• Blackhawk
• J-FORCES Group
• Indian Armour Systems

Report Scope:

In this report, Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

•           Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment Market, By Product:

o    Personal Protective Equipment

o    Offensive Equipment

•           Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment Market, By End User:

o    Law Enforcement

o    Special Forces

•           Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment Market, By Country:

o    China

o    India

o    Japan

o    Indonesia

o    Thailand

o    South Korea

o    Australia

o    Rest of APAC

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment Market.

Available Customizations:

Asia Pacific Riot Control Equipment Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to the company’s specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).