|
Forecast
Period
|
2026-2030
|
|
Market
Size (2024)
|
USD
54.08 Million
|
|
CAGR
(2025-2030)
|
9.17%
|
|
Fastest
Growing Segment
|
Hepatocellular
Carcinoma
|
|
Largest
Market
|
West
India
|
|
Market
Size (2030)
|
USD
90.55 Million
|
Market Overview
India
Liver Cancer Therapeutics Market was valued at USD 54.08 Million in 2024 and is
expected to reach USD 90.55 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 9.17% during the
forecast period.
The liver cancer therapeutics market in India has witnessed
notable advancements and transformations in recent years, driven by the rising
incidence of liver cancer and the growing demand for effective treatment
options. Liver cancer, or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a significant
health concern in India due to the prevalence of risk factors such as hepatitis
B and C infections, alcohol consumption, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
(NAFLD).
The
Indian liver cancer therapeutics market is primarily segmented into drug
classes, including targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and chemotherapy.
Targeted therapies, which aim to specifically attack cancer cells while sparing
healthy tissues, have gained substantial traction. Drugs such as Sorafenib,
which is a first-line treatment for advanced liver cancer, have become a
cornerstone in managing the disease. The introduction of newer targeted
therapies like Lenvatinib and Cabozantinib has further broadened the treatment
landscape, providing patients with additional options that can potentially
improve outcomes and quality of life.
Immunotherapy
is another burgeoning segment within the market. Immune checkpoint inhibitors,
such as Pembrolizumab and Nivolumab, are revolutionizing cancer treatment by
enhancing the body’s own immune response against cancer cells. Ongoing research and clinical trials focused on immunotherapeutic agents hold promise for more effective, personalized treatment regimens in the future. The
growing emphasis on precision medicine is also reflected in the development of
biomarker-driven therapies that offer targeted approaches tailored to individual
patient profiles.
Despite
these advancements, the market faces several challenges. High treatment costs,
limited awareness among the rural population, and infrastructural constraints
in healthcare delivery are significant barriers. Addressing these issues
requires a multifaceted approach, including strengthening public health
initiatives, improving early detection and screening programs, and expanding
healthcare access across different regions.
Key Market Drivers
Increasing Incidence of Liver
Cancer
The growing incidence of liver cancer in India is a major factor driving the expansion of the country’s liver cancer therapeutics market. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer, presents a serious health concern, with India among the countries reporting the highest global rates. The rising burden of this disease is reshaping the therapeutic landscape, fueling research and innovation in advanced treatment solutions.
As per the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2020, liver cancer ranks tenth among cancers in India, with around 34,743 new cases and 33,793 deaths each year. The National Cancer Registry Programme reported about 1.46 million new cancer cases in 2022, where liver cancer accounted for nearly 3.9 percent of the top ten cancers among men. Cancer incidence in India is expected to rise from 1.46 million cases in 2022 to 1.57 million by 2025. The rate has grown from 84.8 per 100,000 in 1990 to 107.2 in 2023, while deaths increased from 71.7 to 86.9 per 100,000 during the same period.
The rising incidence of liver cancer in India is linked to multiple factors, including chronic hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol consumption, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The World Health Organization and national health bodies have expressed concern about the high prevalence of hepatitis B and C, which account for a large share of new cases. Epidemiological data confirm that liver cancer is now a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the country, reinforcing the need for better therapies.
A 2024 review in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology titled “Epidemiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in India” reveals that up to 30 percent of liver cancer cases now occur without prior liver cirrhosis, marking a notable shift in disease patterns. The review also highlights Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, and Goa as new HCC hotspots, showing how the disease is spreading beyond traditional regions.
With this growing public health challenge, the Indian liver cancer therapeutics market is witnessing strong growth. Demand for advanced therapies is rising, leading pharmaceutical firms to increase investments in research and development. Focus areas include targeted therapies and immunotherapies, which offer higher treatment precision compared to traditional chemotherapy. Drugs such as Sorafenib, Lenvatinib, and Cabozantinib are now standard treatment options.
Immunotherapies, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors like Pembrolizumab and Nivolumab, are gaining traction due to their promising results in enhancing immune response against tumor cells. The increasing number of liver cancer cases continues to drive innovation and clinical research, shaping a more dynamic and responsive treatment ecosystem in India.
Advancements in Medical
Technology
The liver cancer treatment landscape in India has undergone major changes in recent years, driven by rapid advances in medical technology. These developments are improving diagnosis, enhancing treatment precision, and supporting the steady expansion of the Indian liver cancer therapeutics market. The integration of innovative technologies is transforming how liver cancer is managed and treated, with a growing focus on patient-specific therapies.
One of the key advancements shaping the market is the development of targeted therapies. Unlike conventional treatments that affect both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapies act on specific genetic and molecular changes that cause cancer. This precision reduces side effects and improves treatment outcomes. As a result, more patients are achieving better survival rates and quality of life. The availability and adoption of these therapies have strengthened India’s liver cancer therapeutics segment, meeting the rising demand for effective, less toxic treatment options.
Immunotherapy represents another major breakthrough. By activating the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells, it has shown notable success in several cancer types, including liver cancer. Techniques such as checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cell therapy, and immune modulators are being introduced in India’s clinical settings, offering new hope to patients with limited options. The growing acceptance of these therapies is accelerating market growth as healthcare providers invest in next-generation solutions.
A 2023 study by the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology (AIG), published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology, reported a breakthrough in treatment. The combination of immunotherapy drugs Atezolizumab and Bevacizumab showed marked improvement in both overall and disease-free survival rates. In early-stage cases, complete tumor remission was achieved. The 2024 National Cancer Registry Programme data estimated 15,33,055 cancer cases nationwide, with 38,703 new liver cancer cases recorded.
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Key Market Challenges
High Cost of Treatment
The high cost of treatment remains a major challenge in India’s liver cancer therapeutics market. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer, continues to impose a heavy burden on the healthcare system. Although medical advancements have improved survival outcomes, the cost of these treatments prevents many patients from accessing effective care.
India’s healthcare sector faces a difficult balance. While there has been strong progress in technology and drug innovation, the associated costs remain unaffordable for a large portion of the population. Treatment for liver cancer involves surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy—all of which are expensive. Newer drugs, including targeted kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors, can cost several lakh rupees per month. For many patients, these expenses lead to financial distress, often forcing them to exhaust their savings or take on significant debt.
According to Cancer Rounds, the cost of liver cancer treatment in India varies depending on disease stage and treatment choice. Though costs are lower than in many developed nations, they still pose a significant burden. Treatment prices in India typically range from USD 1,787.58 to USD 4,766.88, covering surgery, medication, and follow-up care. Even at these levels, the expense is high relative to average household income, making treatment inaccessible to many patients without financial support.
The financial strain extends beyond medical bills. The high price of liver cancer therapeutics has broader economic implications, impacting both patients and the healthcare infrastructure. Many individuals are forced to delay or discontinue treatment due to cost, leading to poor outcomes and increased mortality. Families often liquidate assets or rely on high-interest loans to pay for therapy, pushing them into long-term economic hardship.
The Indian government and insurance providers continue to struggle with these challenges. While public health schemes and private insurers have improved coverage for cancer care, high-cost treatments like targeted and immunotherapy drugs often exceed policy limits. The insurance framework is evolving, but comprehensive coverage for advanced cancer treatments remains limited. This lack of fin.
Key Market Trends
Increased Focus on Early Detection
Early detection is emerging as a defining trend in India’s liver cancer therapeutics market, reshaping patient outcomes and influencing market growth. This shift reflects both the rising incidence of liver cancer and advancements in diagnostic technologies that enable earlier and more accurate identification of the disease.
Liver cancer in India is primarily driven by chronic hepatitis infections, alcohol abuse, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Historically, most patients have been diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are limited and survival rates are low. The focus on early detection seeks to address this challenge, as timely diagnosis can significantly improve treatment effectiveness and patient survival.
Technological progress has been central to this trend. Advanced imaging methods, including high-resolution ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are improving the identification of early-stage liver lesions. These tools provide detailed assessments of liver health and help detect tumors before symptoms appear. In June 2024, Apollo Hospitals analyzed 53,946 health screenings and found that 33 percent of individuals had fatty liver disease. Only one-third showed elevated liver enzymes, indicating that blood tests alone may not be sufficient for early diagnosis. Weight management and lifestyle modification remain key preventive measures, with a 5-10 percent reduction in body weight shown to reduce liver fat and inflammation.
The use of biomarkers is also transforming early detection efforts. Specific proteins, genetic markers, and molecular indicators, such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), are helping detect liver cancer at earlier stages. Elevated AFP levels can signal disease onset and prompt further investigation through imaging and biopsy. These diagnostic advancements enable faster and more targeted intervention, increasing the likelihood of successful treatment.
Research supports the benefits of early detection. Studies show that patients diagnosed at an early stage have significantly higher survival rates compared to those identified later. Early diagnosis also expands the range of treatment options, allowing for curative approaches such as surgical resection, radiofrequency ablation, and localized therapies. The growing emphasis on early detection is expected to strengthen India’s liver cancer therapeutics market by promoting preventive healthcare and improving access to timely treatment.
Segmental Insights
Cancer Type Insights
Based
on Cancer Type, Hepatocellular Carcinoma have emerged as the fastest growing
segment in the India Liver Cancer Therapeutics Market in 2024. Hepatocellular
carcinoma (HCC) has emerged as the fastest-growing segment in the Indian liver
cancer therapeutics market due to a confluence of factors that have heightened
its prevalence and driven the demand for advanced treatment options. As the
most common form of liver cancer, HCC has become a focal point of medical
research and therapeutic development, reflecting broader trends in the
healthcare sector.
Several
key drivers have contributed to HCC’s rapid growth within the market. Firstly,
the increasing incidence of HCC is a major factor. With liver cancer rates on
the rise, largely due to a surge in risk factors such as chronic hepatitis B
and C infections, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and alcohol
consumption, there is an escalating need for effective treatment solutions.
Recent data highlights that HCC is not only becoming more prevalent but is also
being diagnosed at earlier stages, which in turn drives the demand for a
broader range of therapeutic options.
The
advancement of targeted therapies has significantly impacted the HCC market
segment. These therapies are designed to specifically target cancer cells while
minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Drugs such as Sorafenib, Lenvatinib, and
Cabozantinib have transformed the treatment landscape for HCC, offering
improved efficacy and patient outcomes compared to traditional therapies. The
development and approval of these drugs have marked a significant shift in the
management of HCC, making this segment particularly dynamic and rapidly evolving.
Therapy Insights
Based
on Therapy, Targeted therapy has become the dominant segment in India’s liver cancer therapeutics market, reshaping treatment approaches and setting new standards for care. Its precision, effectiveness, and growing availability have positioned it as a preferred option among both healthcare providers and patients.
The strength of targeted therapy lies in its ability to act on specific molecular and genetic drivers of liver cancer. Unlike conventional chemotherapy, which affects both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapy focuses on the molecular changes that cause tumor growth. This selectivity reduces side effects and enhances patient outcomes. In India, where many patients require safer and more effective treatment options, targeted therapy offers clear clinical advantages.
Advancements in genomics and molecular biology have accelerated the development of these therapies. A deeper understanding of cancer pathways has led to the creation of drugs that directly target genetic mutations responsible for disease progression. These scientific developments enable more personalized treatment plans, allowing therapies to be tailored to each patient’s genetic profile. This precision-based approach improves treatment response rates and survival outcomes, contributing to the growing adoption of targeted therapy in India.
Increased availability of targeted drugs has further strengthened their market position. Several agents have been approved for use in India, expanding treatment choices for advanced liver cancer. Drugs such as Sorafenib, Lenvatinib, and Regorafenib have demonstrated strong clinical efficacy and have become integral components of treatment regimens. Their proven results in managing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have reinforced confidence among oncologists and patients alike.
The growing preference for targeted therapy reflects a broader shift toward evidence-based and patient-centered care in India’s liver cancer treatment landscape. As awareness and accessibility improve, targeted therapy is expected to remain the leading therapeutic approach, supporting better outcomes and driving continued growth of the liver cancer therapeutics market.
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Regional Insights
West India has emerged as the leading region in India’s liver cancer therapeutics market in 2024. The region is recognized for its advanced healthcare infrastructure, skilled medical professionals, and strong pharmaceutical base. Cities such as Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad host some of India’s top cancer hospitals and research centers that provide access to the latest liver cancer treatments, including targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Institutions like Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai and Gujarat Cancer Society Hospital in Ahmedabad have played a major role in setting high standards for cancer care, offering advanced diagnostic and surgical capabilities.
The dominance of West India also stems from its strong logistics and strategic geographic position. With Mumbai serving as one of the largest port cities in the country, the region benefits from efficient supply chains for pharmaceuticals and medical devices. This enables quick and reliable access to both imported and domestically manufactured therapies. Well-developed transport networks across Maharashtra and Gujarat support the distribution of liver cancer drugs and medical supplies, ensuring timely availability to healthcare providers and patients.
The pharmaceutical strength of West India is another critical factor driving its leadership in this market. The region is a hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and innovation, home to major companies involved in producing generic medicines and biosimilars. These capabilities help make liver cancer therapies more affordable and accessible, increasing treatment penetration across patient segments. The presence of robust R&D facilities also fosters continuous advancements in drug formulation and therapeutic approaches.
Additionally, lifestyle changes and higher prevalence of risk factors such as alcohol consumption and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have led to a growing number of liver cancer cases in the region. This has prompted greater public and private investments in cancer care infrastructure, including early detection programs and specialized treatment centers. As a result, West India has established itself as a key driver of growth in India’s liver cancer therapeutics market, combining strong healthcare capacity, industrial strength, and patient demand to maintain its leading position..
Recent Development
- In March 2025, CDSCO approved the import and sale of durvalumab (Imfinzi) solution 120 mg/2.4 ml and 500 mg/10 ml for the additional indication of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC) in combination with tremelimumab, enabling marketing post statutory clearances.
- In March 2025, AstraZeneca Pharma India | Launch pathway update: Trade and industry reports reaffirmed the CDSCO clearance for durvalumab plus tremelimumab in uHCC, noting that the move expands India’s immunotherapy options for advanced liver cancer, pending final distribution approvals.
- In June 2025, Clinical evidence in India | Real-world outcomes: A multi-center Indian cohort reported safety and efficacy data for first-line atezolizumab plus bevacizumab in unresectable HCC cases treated between 2020–2024. The study reflected continued adoption of this regimen in Indian clinical settings, with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) outcomes reported from two leading cancer centers.
- In June 2025, Trial governance | SEC Oncology minutes: CDSCO’s Subject Expert Committee (Oncology) records included a protocol amendment review for durvalumab (MEDI4736), indicating active regulatory oversight of immunotherapy protocols related to liver cancer in India during 2025.
- In May 2024, Zydus Lifesciences & MSN Labs | Licensing and supply deal: Both Indian firms executed an exclusive licensing and supply agreement for cabozantinib tablets (generic Cabometyx) targeting the US market. Cabozantinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) relevant to HCC, highlights India’s growing manufacturing capacity for advanced cancer therapeutics.
- In May 2024, Atezolizumab + Bevacizumab | Clinical practice report: An Indian case series on downstaging outcomes using atezolizumab plus bevacizumab was published, contributing real-world evidence to guide treatment sequencing and liver transplant eligibility strategies in advanced HCC.
- In
April 2024, the Government of India unveiled the nation’s first indigenously developed CAR T-cell therapy for cancer treatment, marking it as a
significant advancement and a beacon of hope in the fight against cancer.
Developed by IIT Bombay and Tata Memorial Centre, this gene-based therapy,
known as NexCAR19, is India's first 'Made in India' CAR T-cell therapy. It
promises to reduce the cost of cancer treatment substantially, representing a
major milestone for the country and positioning India prominently in the global
cell and gene therapy landscape.
- In
January 2024, research addressing liver cancer, a condition frequently
diagnosed at advanced stages highlighted a novel approach through targeted
therapy that alters cellular metabolic programming. This six-year collaborative
research effort, conducted by scientists from CSIR-Central Drug Research
Institute (CSIR-CDRI), Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
(CIMAP), and Centre of Biomedical Research (CBMR), SGPGIMS, Lucknow, reveals
that changes in cancer cell metabolism can be harnessed as a diagnostic tool
for cancer prevention. Published in the prestigious journal Elsevier, this
research provides vital insights into the metabolic mechanisms behind
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), offering new perspectives on combating this
challenging liver cancer variant.
Key Market Players
- Natco Pharma
Ltd.
- Dr.
Reddy's Laboratories Ltd.
- Intas
Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
- Mylan
Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.
- Lupin
Ltd.
- Biocon
Ltd.
- Hetero
Labs Ltd.
|
By
Cancer Type
|
By
Therapy
|
By
Route of Administration
|
By
Distribution Channel
|
By
Region
|
- Hepatocellular
Carcinoma
- Cholangiocarcinoma
- Hepatoblastoma
- Angiosarcoma
- Liver
Metastasis
|
- Targeted Therapy
- Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Others
|
|
- Hospital Pharmacies
- Retail Pharmacies
- Online Pharmacies
|
- North
India
- East
India
- West
India
- South
India
|
Report Scope
In this report, the India Liver Cancer Therapeutics
Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the
industry trends which have also been detailed below:
- India Liver Cancer Therapeutics Market, By Cancer Type:
o Hepatocellular Carcinoma
o Cholangiocarcinoma
o Hepatoblastoma
o Angiosarcoma
o Liver Metastasis
- India Liver Cancer Therapeutics Market, By Therapy:
o Targeted Therapy
o Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy
o Immunotherapy
o Others
- India Liver Cancer Therapeutics Market, By Route of Administration:
o Oral
o Intravenous
o Others
- India Liver Cancer Therapeutics Market, By Distribution Channel:
o Hospital Pharmacies
o Retail Pharmacies
o Online Pharmacies
- India Liver Cancer Therapeutics Market, By
Region:
o North India
o East India
o West India
o South India
Competitive Landscape
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the India
Liver Cancer Therapeutics Market.
Available Customizations:
India Liver Cancer Therapeutics Market report with
the given market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to a
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).
India Liver Cancer
Therapeutics Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an
early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please
contact us at [email protected]