|
Forecast
Period
|
2026-2030
|
|
Market
Size (2024)
|
USD
276.32 Million
|
|
Market
Size (2030)
|
USD
455.63 Million
|
|
CAGR
(2025-2030)
|
8.65%
|
|
Fastest
Growing Segment
|
Micro
Encapsulation
|
|
Largest
Market
|
Southern
Vietnam
|
Market Overview
Vietnam Controlled
Release Drug Delivery Market was valued at USD 276.32 Million in 2024
and is expected to reach USD 455.63 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 8.65% during
the forecast period.
The Vietnam controlled release drug delivery market is
primarily driven by the growing demand for advanced drug delivery systems that
improve treatment efficacy and patient compliance. As the healthcare sector
evolves, controlled release technologies offer significant advantages, such as
reducing the frequency of drug administration and enhancing therapeutic
outcomes by maintaining consistent drug levels in the bloodstream.
The rising
prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and
cancer, which require long-term medication, has further fueled the demand for
controlled-release formulations. In 2021, approximately 3.92% of Vietnam’s
population aged 25–64 had both diabetes and hypertension, based on data from
three rounds of the STEPs surveys. The surveys used consistent sampling
methods, sample sizes, and study subjects (aged 18 to 69). Both the 2015 and
2021 surveys employed a two-stage random sampling method, covering 15% of the
Vietnamese population across all 63 provinces. In the 2015 survey, the final
sample sizes were 3,758 for Step 1, 3,036 for Step 2, and 2,816 for Step 3,
with response rates of 97.4%, 78.7%, and 73.0%, respectively. The 2021 survey
included 4,738 subjects in Step 1 (94.76% response rate) and 3,712 in Steps 2
and 3 (74.2% response rate).
Advancements in biotechnology and the
increasing adoption of personalized medicine are contributing to the market's
growth. The pharmaceutical industry’s focus on improving drug stability,
bioavailability, and patient convenience is propelling the development of
innovative controlled release systems. As healthcare infrastructure improves
and patients seek more effective treatments, the controlled-release drug
delivery market in Vietnam is poised for continued expansion.
Key Market Drivers
Increasing Prevalence of
Chronic Diseases
The rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and hypertension is a major driver of Vietnam’s controlled release drug delivery market. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for about 72% of the country’s mortality burden and 66% of its disease burden. Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory illnesses like COPD, and cancer are among the most common and increasingly linked to rapid economic growth, aging demographics, urbanization, and lifestyle changes.
Chronic conditions require long-term medication management to control symptoms, prevent complications, and enhance quality of life. Traditional drug delivery methods that require frequent dosing can be inconvenient for patients, leading to poor adherence. Controlled release drug delivery systems provide steady, sustained drug levels in the bloodstream over an extended period, reducing dosing frequency and improving convenience.
Better adherence to prescribed regimens through controlled release formulations is essential for improving treatment outcomes, especially for chronic conditions that require continuous therapy. The growing aging population in Vietnam and the rising demand for advanced disease management solutions make controlled release drug delivery systems a crucial part of the healthcare landscape. As chronic diseases continue to increase, the market for these technologies is expected to see steady growth.
Patient Preference for
Convenience and Compliance
Patient
convenience is a significant driver of the controlled-release drug delivery
market in Vietnam. Patients with chronic conditions often struggle to comply
with complex medication regimens, especially when they require multiple doses
throughout the day. This issue is prevalent in Vietnam, where traditional drug
delivery systems may not align with patients’ daily routines. Controlled
release systems, which allow for sustained drug release over an extended
period, minimize the frequency of dosing, thus improving convenience and
increasing patient adherence to prescribed treatments.
These systems reduce the
need for multiple medications or doses per day, simplifying therapy management
for patients. As a result, patients are more likely to consistently take their
medication as prescribed, improving overall treatment efficacy. This preference
for convenience is driving the adoption of controlled-release drug delivery
systems, particularly among individuals with chronic illnesses who require
ongoing medication. With the increasing demand for patient-centric healthcare, the convenience offered by controlled-release technologies remains a key factor
in the market's growth.
Improvement in Healthcare
Infrastructure
The
improvement in Vietnam's healthcare infrastructure is also playing a crucial
role in driving the controlled-release drug delivery market. As the healthcare
sector in Vietnam modernizes, hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies are
increasingly adopting advanced medical technologies, including controlled-release drug delivery systems. In December 2024, an
Australian biotechnology company is developing what may become Vietnam's first
AI-powered hospital. The MedArmor AI Hospital will focus on a preventive healthcare
model, prioritizing early disease detection and timely interventions, supported
by AI and virtual care technologies. The hospital will primarily operate using virtual
technologies, such as video conferencing, to provide care. Additionally, it
will offer telestroke management, electronic intensive care units, and online
consultations between healthcare providers.
The
expansion of both public and private healthcare facilities has made it easier
for patients to access state-of-the-art treatments, which include novel drug
delivery methods. Increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, coupled
with a rise in the availability of specialized healthcare professionals, has
facilitated the widespread use of controlled release systems. As healthcare
facilities adopt more sophisticated medical technologies, they are likely to
offer controlled release drug products as part of their standard care
offerings, making them more accessible to the population. This improvement in
healthcare infrastructure is essential for the continued growth of the market,
as it provides the foundation necessary for the adoption and integration of
advanced drug delivery technologies.
Rise of Personalized Medicine
The
rise of personalized medicine is another key driver of the controlled-release
drug delivery market in Vietnam. Personalized medicine, which tailors medical
treatment to individual patients based on their genetic makeup, lifestyle, and
environmental factors, is gaining traction worldwide. In Vietnam, the shift
toward personalized treatment plans is creating demand for more precise and
efficient drug delivery systems. Controlled release technologies are ideal for
personalized medicine, as they allow for better management of drug doses and
release schedules tailored to individual patients’ needs. The ability to
customize drug release profiles based on specific patient conditions will
improve therapeutic outcomes and minimize side effects. As personalized
medicine becomes more widespread in Vietnam, controlled release drug delivery
systems will play a critical role in ensuring the success of these treatments.
The increasing use of personalized medicine is therefore driving the growth of
the controlled release drug delivery market.
Growing Pharmaceutical
Industry Investment
The increasing investment in Vietnam's
pharmaceutical industry is a major factor propelling the growth of the
controlled release drug delivery market. Both domestic and international
pharmaceutical companies are recognizing the potential of the Vietnamese
market, driven by the country’s large population and improving healthcare
system. These companies are investing heavily in the research, development, and
commercialization of controlled-release drug delivery systems. In January 2025, Vietnam has begun the construction
of its first plasma-based biopharmaceutical production plant, situated in the
high-tech park of Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City. The groundbreaking project is
led by Binh Viet Duc Co., Ltd., with the goal of decreasing dependence on imported
plasma-based treatments and reducing costs for patients, according to Radio the
Voice of Vietnam (VOV).
By
investing in R&D, pharmaceutical companies are introducing more effective,
efficient, and patient-friendly formulations, which are gaining popularity in
the market. Pharmaceutical companies are focusing on expanding the availability
of these advanced drug delivery systems through improved distribution networks
and partnerships with healthcare providers. As the pharmaceutical industry
continues to grow and invest in innovative drug delivery technologies, the
controlled release drug delivery market in Vietnam will continue to expand.
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Key Market Challenges
High Cost of Development and
Production
One
of the most significant challenges in the controlled release drug delivery
market in Vietnam is the high cost of developing and producing these advanced
systems. Controlled release formulations often involve complex technologies,
such as specialized polymers, nano-carriers, and advanced drug encapsulation
methods, which can significantly increase production costs. The research and
development (R&D) process for controlled release systems is also
resource-intensive, requiring extensive clinical trials, regulatory approvals,
and substantial investment in infrastructure. These high costs are often passed
on to consumers, which can make controlled release drug products more expensive
than conventional drug delivery methods.
In
Vietnam, where a large segment of the population still faces financial barriers
to accessing healthcare, the higher cost of controlled release medications can
limit market penetration. This is especially true in rural areas, where
disposable incomes are lower and the cost of innovative treatments can be a
significant deterrent for patients. Local manufacturers may lack the resources
and technology to produce these advanced systems domestically, forcing them to
rely on expensive imports, which can further drive up the price.
Although the
pharmaceutical market is expanding, the affordability of controlled release
drugs remains a key challenge. For these systems to become widely accessible,
it is essential for the cost of production to decrease, which would require
innovations in manufacturing processes, economies of scale, and government
support for cost-effective solutions.
Regulatory Challenges and
Approval Delays
Another
challenge facing the Vietnam controlled release drug delivery market is
navigating the complex and often delayed regulatory processes. The regulatory
environment for drug products in Vietnam is still evolving, and while the
government has made efforts to modernize healthcare regulations, the approval
process for new drugs and drug delivery systems can be slow and cumbersome.
Controlled release drug products, being relatively new in comparison to
conventional drug formulations, require more extensive testing and validation
before they can be approved for use in the market. This includes proving the
safety, efficacy, and consistency of the drug release over time, which involves
detailed clinical trials and regulatory submissions.
The
slow pace of regulatory approval can delay the entry of innovative controlled
release drugs into the Vietnamese market, hindering their potential to address
unmet medical needs. Regulatory frameworks may not always align with the latest
advancements in drug delivery technology, requiring companies to meet stringent
and sometimes outdated requirements. These regulatory hurdles can discourage
foreign investment and innovation in the sector, as pharmaceutical companies
may perceive the process as too time-consuming and expensive. Inconsistent
regulatory practices across regions in Vietnam can create challenges for
manufacturers and distributors trying to enter the market. A more streamlined,
transparent, and harmonized regulatory environment would be crucial to
facilitating the quicker adoption of controlled release drug delivery systems
in Vietnam.
Key Market Trends
Technological Innovations in
Drug Delivery Systems
Technological innovations have played a pivotal role in the rapid growth of the controlled release drug delivery market in Vietnam. Advances in materials science, particularly the development of biocompatible polymers like TPEs and PEGs, biodegradable materials, and novel drug carriers, have significantly enhanced the efficacy and reliability of controlled release systems. Newer drug delivery technologies such as nano-carriers, liposomes, and microspheres have improved the precision of drug release, with microencapsulation being a dominant method used in the country. These innovations, including research at Ton Duc Thang University on controlled release film-forming systems, are allowing for more tailored treatments for patients, ensuring that the drug is released at the right site in the body for maximum therapeutic effect.
Innovations in manufacturing processes have made it easier to produce controlled release systems at scale, reducing costs and improving availability. An example is the construction of Vietnam's first plasma-based biopharmaceutical production plant in Ho Chi Minh City, which aims to decrease reliance on imported treatments. Technological advancements are also helping to address the challenges posed by traditional drug delivery methods, such as poor bioavailability. Vietnamese researchers have been active in this area, developing multifunctional nanocarriers for cancer treatment monitoring and therapy. As these innovations continue to evolve, with ongoing projects at institutions like the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology to find new drug carrier systems, the controlled release drug delivery market in Vietnam is expected to expand further, offering more efficient and targeted treatments for a wide range of conditions.
Advancements in Biotechnology
and Pharmaceutical Development
The
rapid advancements in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research are
significantly driving the Vietnam controlled-release drug delivery market.
Biotechnology has enabled the development of novel therapeutic agents, such as
biologics, peptides, and monoclonal antibodies, which require advanced drug
delivery systems for effective administration. These new classes of drugs often
have specific requirements in terms of bioavailability, stability, and
therapeutic efficacy, which traditional drug delivery systems may not fully
address.
Controlled-release drug delivery systems allow for the precise and
targeted release of these complex drugs over an extended period, improving
their effectiveness and reducing side effects. The advancements in polymer
science and nano-technologies have enhanced the development of controlled
release systems, making them more efficient and versatile. As Vietnam continues
to invest in biotechnology research and development, the adoption of controlled
release drug delivery methods will expand, enabling better treatment outcomes
for patients. The technological evolution in drug formulation is, therefore,
one of the most influential factors contributing to the growth of the market.
Segmental Insights
Technology Insights
Based on Technology, microencapsulation is the leading technology in Vietnam’s controlled release drug delivery market. This advanced method encloses drugs in a polymer or lipid-based coating, regulating their release rate and protecting them from degradation. Its flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability make it ideal for sustained and controlled drug delivery. The technique is especially popular for oral drug formulations, the most common delivery route in Vietnam’s pharmaceutical sector.
The demand for oral drug delivery systems is increasing due to the country’s rising burden of chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disorders. Microencapsulation enables sustained drug release, reducing the frequency of doses and improving patient compliance—an ongoing challenge in Vietnam’s healthcare system. By integrating this technology, pharmaceutical companies can enhance treatment outcomes, support long-term disease management, and increase the overall convenience of therapeutic regimens.
Microencapsulation effectively protects active ingredients from environmental degradation caused by light, heat, or moisture—critical factors in Vietnam’s humid tropical climate. The technology ensures drug stability, sustained therapeutic effects, and minimized side effects. It also supports combination therapies by allowing multiple drugs to be encapsulated together for controlled, sequential release. This capability makes microencapsulation a cornerstone technology for improving drug performance, patient safety, and treatment efficiency in Vietnam’s growing pharmaceutical market.
Release
Mechanism Insights
Based on the Release Mechanism, Polymer-based systems are the most dominant release mechanism in Vietnam’s controlled release drug delivery market. These systems use natural or synthetic biopolymers to encapsulate or bind drugs, enabling regulated and sustained release over time. Their versatility allows for effective delivery of both small molecule drugs and biologics, making them suitable for a wide range of therapeutic applications across multiple medical disciplines.
The growing prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and hypertension in Vietnam drives demand for long-term treatment solutions. Polymer-based systems reduce dosing frequency, improving patient compliance particularly important in Vietnam, where adherence to complex medication schedules can be challenging. Gradual drug release ensures consistent therapeutic levels, enhancing overall treatment effectiveness.
Polymer-based systems also support diverse delivery methods, including oral, injectable, and topical applications. For oral drug delivery Vietnam’s most common route formulations like matrix systems and coating-based technologies ensure steady release of active pharmaceutical ingredients in tablets and capsules. Their ability to customize release profiles according to drug properties and treatment requirements makes polymer-based systems a leading technology for sustained, patient-friendly, and effective drug delivery in Vietnam’s healthcare market..
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Regional Insights
Southern Vietnam is currently the dominant region in the Vietnam controlled release drug delivery market. This dominance can be attributed to several key factors, including the region's developed healthcare infrastructure, higher economic growth, and concentration of pharmaceutical companies. Southern Vietnam, particularly the Ho Chi Minh City area, is the economic hub of the country, hosting a large number of pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors, with over 10,000 pharmaceutical enterprises located in the city. As the largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City serves as a focal point for the introduction of new healthcare technologies, including advanced drug delivery systems like controlled release formulations.
The rapid urbanization and increasing healthcare investment in Southern Vietnam, as part of Ho Chi Minh City's plan to become an ASEAN healthcare hub by 2030, have played a pivotal role in driving the demand for controlled release drug delivery systems. Urban areas are home to a more affluent and health-conscious population, which is more likely to seek out advanced drug delivery solutions. The demand for controlled release systems is higher in these urban centers, especially for managing chronic diseases like hypertension, the prevalence of which rose from about one in five adults to more than one in four between 2015 and 2021. These patients often require long-term medication, and controlled release systems offer a more convenient solution by reducing the frequency of dosing.
In addition, the region benefits from a better-developed healthcare infrastructure, with access to modern hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Ho Chi Minh City alone is home to 131 hospitals and over 8,000 private clinics. This infrastructure supports the use of advanced drug delivery systems. The presence of key pharmaceutical companies, both domestic and international, in this region including Sanofi, Bayer, Domesco, and Imexpharm has facilitated the distribution and availability of controlled release drug products. These companies are investing in R&D and leveraging the region's access to modern manufacturing facilities to meet the growing demand.
The greater purchasing power in Southern Vietnam also makes it an attractive market for the introduction of higher-priced advanced drug delivery systems. While the cost of controlled release products may be a barrier in rural areas, patients in urban centers are often more willing to invest in these products due to their benefits. The higher concentration of patients with chronic diseases in Southern Vietnam has also contributed to the region's leadership in the market, as chronic conditions have become the leading cause of death in the country.
Recent Developments
- In July 2025, the 108 Military Central Hospital and Germany's Hannover Medical School agreed to step up cooperation in high-quality cardiovascular training and clinical trials of advanced medical technologies. This includes trials for Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) devices, indicating a focus on advanced device implementation and research.
- In April 2025, the Cleveland Clinic and Vingroup announced a collaboration to develop the Vinmec Can Gio International General Hospital. Cleveland Clinic will act as a strategic advisor, helping to build the hospital based on its model of care, which includes integrating advanced clinical centers and world-class medical equipment.
- In December 2024, An Australian biotechnology company announced plans to develop MedArmor AI Hospital, which is expected to be Vietnam's first AI-powered hospital. The facility will focus on preventive healthcare and use virtual care technologies, which can be supported by advanced drug delivery systems for patient management.
- In November 2024, the
Ministry of Health has proposed a policy to promote the transfer of new and
innovative drugs, with the goal of creating more opportunities for patients. According
to the Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV), innovative drugs make up only
about 3 percent of the total market in Vietnam but account for up to 22 percent
of the value, with most of them being imported. Only a small number of
medicines have been researched and produced locally or have undergone initial
technology transfers for production.
- On January 9, 2024, Daiichi Sankyo Vietnam Co., Ltd. established a
new business office in Hanoi as part of its ongoing expansion in Vietnam.
- Marubeni Corporation ("Marubeni"), through its
wholly-owned Singapore-based subsidiary, Marubeni Growth Capital Asia Pte. Ltd.
("MGCA"), has acquired additional shares in AIG Asia Ingredients
Corporation ("AIG") to further strengthen the strategic partnership
between the two companies. This follows an initial investment made in October
2023. AIG is a prominent supplier and manufacturer of food ingredients and
packaged food products.
Key Market Players
- Merck Vietnam Co., Ltd
- JNTL Consumer Health (Vietnam) Co. Ltd.
- Pfizer (Vietnam) Limited Company
- AstraZeneca Vietnam Co., Ltd.
- Croda Vietnam
- DSM Nutritional Products Vietnam Ltd
- Evonik Vietnam LLC
- B. Braun Vietnam Co., Ltd.
- DHG Pharmaceutical Joint Stock Company
- Mekophar Chemical and Pharmaceutical JSC
|
By
Technology
|
By
Release Mechanism
|
By
Delivery Application
|
By
Region
|
- Wurster
Technique
- Coacervation
- Micro
Encapsulation
- Implants
- Transdermal
- Targeted
Delivery
- Others
|
- Polymer
Based Systems
- Micro
Reservoir Partition Controlled Drug Delivery Systems
- Feedback
Regulated Drug Delivery Systems
- Activation-modulated
Drug Delivery Systems
- Chemically
Activated
|
- Metered
Dose Inhalers
- Injectable
- Transdermal
& Ocular Patches
- Infusion
Pumps
- Oral
Controlled-drug delivery Systems
- Drug
Eluting Stents
|
- Southern
Vietnam
- Northern
Vietnam
- Central
Vietnam
|
Report Scope:
In this report, the
Vietnam Controlled Release Drug Delivery Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition
to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:
·
Vietnam Controlled Release Drug Delivery Market, By Technology:
o Wurster Technique
o Coacervation
o Micro Encapsulation
o Implants
o Transdermal
o Targeted Delivery
o Others
·
Vietnam Controlled Release Drug Delivery Market, By Release Mechanism:
o Polymer Based Systems
o Micro Reservoir Partition Controlled
Drug Delivery Systems
o Feedback Regulated Drug Delivery Systems
o Activation-modulated Drug Delivery
Systems
o Chemically Activated
·
Vietnam Controlled Release Drug Delivery Market, By Delivery Application:
o Metered Dose Inhalers
o Injectable
o Transdermal & Ocular Patches
o Infusion Pumps
o Oral Controlled-drug delivery Systems
o Drug Eluting Stents
- Vietnam Controlled Release Drug Delivery Market, By Region:
o Southern Vietnam
o Northern Vietnam
o Central Vietnam
Competitive Landscape
Company
Profiles: Detailed
analysis of the major companies present in the Vietnam Controlled Release Drug
Delivery Market.
Available Customizations:
Vietnam
Controlled Release Drug Delivery Market report with the given market data, TechSci 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).
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the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]