The India disposable latex gloves market has demonstrated significant growth, with a valuation of USD 181.2 million in 2019. Projected to expand to USD 282.8 million by 2027, this market is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2020 to 2027. This report offers a detailed examination of the key factors driving this growth, market trends, challenges, and the competitive landscape within the disposable latex gloves industry in India.
Market overview:
Disposable latex gloves are essential in various industries, including healthcare, food service, and cleaning, for providing protection against infections and contaminants. The market’s growth is propelled by the increasing awareness of hygiene practices, especially in the wake of health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, and stringent regulations mandating the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in several sectors.
Latex gloves are made of natural rubber. Gloves are disposable items used during medical examinations and procedures aimed at preventing cross-contamination between healthcare providers and patients. These cloves are available in different sizes such as XS, S, M, and L. Some brands sell XL size, as well. Gloves are generally used by healthcare professionals for examination and surgery. More specifically, gloves are usually sized because they are worn for the much longer period and require good finesse. There are various advantages of latex gloves such as skin fit, good touch sensitivity, cost-effective, elastic & strong, and, most importantly, biodegradable.
Growth drivers and opportunities:
The primary driver for the market’s growth is the heightened demand in the healthcare sector, where disposable latex gloves are crucial for surgical procedures and examination purposes. The outbreak of COVID-19 has further accelerated this demand, emphasizing the importance of disposable gloves in preventing the spread of infections. Additionally, the growing food industry, which requires high standards of hygiene, is contributing to the increased demand for disposable latex gloves.
Technological advancements in manufacturing processes have led to the production of high-quality latex gloves, offering better protection and comfort. This has opened new opportunities for manufacturers to innovate and expand their product portfolios. Moreover, the rise in healthcare infrastructure and services in India presents a significant opportunity for the expansion of the disposable latex gloves market.
The market for latex gloves is driven primarily by increase in awareness among healthcare professionals and patients regarding hygiene and safety. Latex gloves have been used in various industries including pharmaceutical, healthcare, food, biotechnology, automotive, and others. These gloves provide safety during many activities such as reactive materials, toxic chemicals, or unsanitary practices. In addition, the manufacturing process of particular products such as medical devices, medicinal products, and food involving a high standard of quality and managing of these products is the inhumane treatment that may cause contamination of a product if proper precautions are not taken.
Challenges:
Despite the promising growth prospects, the market faces challenges such as the potential for allergic reactions to latex gloves, leading to a shift towards non-latex alternatives. Additionally, environmental concerns regarding the disposal of latex gloves and the volatility in raw material prices are significant challenges that market players need to address.
Healthcare demand and pandemic preparedness:
The growth of the disposable latex gloves industry in India is heavily influenced by the demand from the healthcare sector, particularly during pandemics and public health emergencies. Disposable latex gloves are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) used by healthcare professionals to prevent the spread of infections, cross-contamination, and contact with hazardous materials. The increasing prevalence of infectious diseases, rising healthcare expenditure, and expanding healthcare infrastructure in India drive the demand for disposable latex gloves in hospitals, clinics, diagnostic laboratories, and other healthcare settings. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has heightened awareness of infection control measures and accelerated the adoption of disposable latex gloves in healthcare facilities, contributing to industry growth.
Regulatory considerations and quality standards:
Regulatory considerations and compliance with quality standards are crucial factors influencing the growth of the disposable latex gloves industry in India. Regulatory agencies such as the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) impose regulations and standards for the manufacturing, labeling, and distribution of medical-grade gloves. Compliance with standards such as IS 13422:1992 (Indian Standard for Medical Rubber Gloves) and ISO 13485 (Quality Management Systems for Medical Devices) ensures the safety, efficacy, and quality of disposable latex gloves in healthcare applications. Additionally, adherence to international standards such as ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and EN (European Norms) facilitates market access and export opportunities for Indian manufacturers. Manufacturers invest in quality control measures, product testing, and regulatory affairs to meet compliance requirements and maintain customer confidence in the quality and reliability of disposable latex gloves.
Technological advancements and product innovation:
Technological advancements and product innovation drive growth and differentiation within the disposable latex gloves industry in India. Continuous research and development efforts focus on improving glove designs, materials, and manufacturing processes to enhance comfort, fit, durability, and barrier properties. Advancements in latex formulation, glove dipping technology, and surface treatments enable the development of disposable latex gloves with enhanced puncture resistance, elasticity, and tactile sensitivity. Moreover, innovations in powder-free glove designs, polymer coatings, and antimicrobial finishes address customer preferences for allergen-free and hygienic glove options. Manufacturers leverage technological advancements to develop latex glove products that meet the specific needs of healthcare professionals, comply with regulatory requirements, and deliver superior performance, driving market adoption and industry growth in India. Ocean