Global Surgical Gloves Market Outlook, 2029

The global surgical gloves market is expected to growing at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2023. This growth is driven by a number of factors, including the increasing number of surgical procedures being performed worldwide, rising awareness among industry participants about the importance of employee safety, and growing government regulations mandating the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare settings. One of the major drivers of the market is the rising number of surgical procedures. For instance, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the number of appendectomies, cesarean sections, and other surgeries is on the rise in the United States. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging population and the increasing availability of minimally invasive surgical procedures. Another factor driving the market is the growing awareness among industry participants about the importance of employee safety. Surgical gloves play a vital role in protecting healthcare workers from infectious diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that healthcare workers wear surgical gloves whenever they are in contact with blood, bodily fluids, mucous membranes, or non-intact skin. The government regulations are also mandating the use of PPE in healthcare settings. For instance, the FDA has banned the use of powdered surgical gloves in the United States due to the risk of allergic reactions. This has led to an increase in the demand for powder-free surgical gloves.

According to the research report, “Global Surgical Gloves Market Outlook, 2029” published by Bonafide Research, the market is expected to grow with 5.2% CAGR by 2024-29. The market for surgical gloves is also being driven by the growing adoption of new technologies. For instance, manufacturers are developing new surgical gloves that are coated with antimicrobial agents to help prevent the spread of infection. Some companies are developing surgical gloves that are made from biodegradable materials. The market for surgical gloves is also facing some challenges. One challenge is the rising cost of raw materials. The price of natural rubber, which is the most common material used to make surgical gloves, has been rising in recent years. This is due to a number of factors, including increased demand from the automotive industry and extreme weather events in Southeast Asia, where most natural rubber is produced. Another challenge facing the market is the shortage of skilled labor. The production of surgical gloves is a labor-intensive process. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the supply chain, highlighting the need for geographically diverse production. As the demand for surgical gloves continues to grow, manufacturers may face challenges in finding enough skilled workers to meet demand. Despite these challenges, the global surgical gloves market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The rising number of surgical procedures, growing awareness of the importance of employee safety, and increasing government regulations are all expected to drive demand for surgical gloves.

Escalating Surgical Procedures: An aging global population and advancements in minimally invasive surgery are leading to a significant rise in the number of surgical procedures performed annually. This upsurge directly translates to an increased demand for surgical gloves to maintain sterility and protect healthcare workers.
• Heightened Safety Concerns: Growing awareness regarding occupational hazards in healthcare settings has amplified the focus on employee safety. Surgical gloves play a critical role in preventing healthcare workers from exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other infectious agents, propelling market growth.
• Regulatory Landscape: Stringent government regulations mandating the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare facilities further bolster the surgical gloves market. The implementation of bans on powdered latex gloves, for instance, has driven the demand for safer alternatives like powder-free gloves.

Market Challenges

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Manmayi Raval

Research Consultant

• Raw Material Cost Fluctuations: The surgical glove industry experiences vulnerability due to fluctuations in the cost of raw materials, particularly natural rubber. Factors like rising demand from the automotive sector and weather disruptions in Southeast Asia, the primary source of natural rubber, can significantly impact production costs.
• Skilled Labor Shortages: Surgical glove production is a labor-intensive process. The global market grapples with a shortage of skilled workers, especially in the wake of supply chain disruptions exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. This deficit can hinder manufacturers' ability to scale up production to meet growing demand.
• Sustainability Concerns: Traditional surgical gloves often generate significant medical waste. Growing environmental consciousness is pushing for the development and adoption of eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable gloves, posing a potential challenge to established market players.

Market Trends

• Technological Advancements: The surgical gloves market is witnessing continuous innovation. Manufacturers are exploring novel technologies like incorporating antimicrobial coatings on gloves to combat healthcare-associated infections. Additionally, research into biodegradable materials offers a promising avenue for sustainable glove production.
• Diversification of Materials: Latex allergies among healthcare workers are driving the demand for non-latex alternatives. The market is witnessing a surge in the production of synthetic gloves made from nitrile and neoprene, offering a wider range of choices for healthcare professionals.
• Regional Production Shifts: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerabilities of geographically concentrated production. The market is likely to witness a trend towards geographically diversified production facilities to ensure supply chain resilience in the face of unforeseen disruptions.

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Based on the report, the Product type segment is segmented into Latex Gloves, Nitrile Gloves, Vinyl Gloves, Neoprene Gloves, Natural Rubber and Others. The Natural rubber is leading in the surgical glove industry due to its superior elasticity, comfort, and tactile sensitivity, crucial for surgical precision and dexterity.

Natural rubber latex gloves have established themselves as the preferred choice in the surgical glove industry primarily due to their exceptional properties that cater specifically to the demands of healthcare professionals. The key attribute that sets natural rubber latex gloves apart is their unparalleled elasticity, which allows for a snug fit that enhances comfort and dexterity during surgical procedures. This elasticity ensures a form-fitting seal around the hand, reducing the risk of contaminants entering the glove and offering greater protection to both the wearer and the patient. In surgical settings, tactile sensitivity is paramount as it directly influences the surgeon's ability to maneuver delicate instruments and tissues with precision. Natural rubber latex gloves excel in this aspect, providing a tactile feel that allows healthcare professionals to detect subtle textures and pressures. This sensitivity is crucial during intricate procedures where the slightest movement or touch can have significant implications for patient outcomes. Natural rubber latex is inherently soft and comfortable, making it easier for healthcare workers to wear gloves for extended periods without experiencing discomfort or fatigue. This comfort is not only conducive to the well-being of medical personnel but also contributes to their overall efficiency and focus during surgeries. In addition to their functional benefits, natural rubber latex gloves are preferred for their environmental sustainability. Latex is a renewable resource derived from the sap of rubber trees, which can be harvested without causing permanent damage to the trees. This sustainable sourcing aligns with growing global concerns about environmental impact and resource conservation in healthcare practices. Despite the advantages, it's important to note that natural rubber latex gloves can pose a challenge for individuals with latex allergies. For this reason, alternative materials like nitrile, vinyl, and neoprene have gained popularity in settings where latex sensitivity is prevalent. However, advancements in glove manufacturing techniques have led to reduced protein content in latex gloves, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions while retaining their beneficial properties.

On the basis of report, the form segment is segmented into Powder-free Glove and Powdered Gloves. The Powder-free gloves are leading in the surgical glove industry due to their elimination of powder-related complications such as allergies, tissue irritation, and contamination risks.

The shift towards powder-free gloves has marked a significant advancement in the surgical glove industry, driven by the recognition of several critical advantages over powdered alternatives. The primary reason for the dominance of powder-free gloves lies in their ability to mitigate various issues associated with powdered gloves. Historically, powdered gloves were utilized to ease the donning process by reducing friction and aiding in glove removal. However, the powder used, typically cornstarch or calcium carbonate, has been linked to adverse effects that compromise both patient and healthcare provider safety. One of the foremost concerns addressed by powder-free gloves is the risk of allergic reactions. The powder itself, particularly latex gloves powdered with cornstarch, can contain latex proteins that become airborne upon glove removal. Inhalation of these particles can trigger latex allergies in susceptible individuals, posing a significant health hazard in healthcare settings where exposure is frequent. Powder-free gloves eliminate this risk entirely, making them indispensable in environments striving to minimize allergic reactions among both patients and medical personnel. Beyond allergies, powdered gloves have been associated with tissue irritation, especially in surgical contexts where prolonged glove use is common. The powder can absorb moisture, creating a humid environment inside the glove that may exacerbate skin irritation or dermatitis, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to conditions like eczema. By eliminating powder, powder-free gloves reduce the likelihood of these complications, promoting greater comfort and safety for healthcare workers who rely on gloves for extended periods during surgeries and procedures. The absence of powder in gloves contributes to a cleaner environment within healthcare facilities. Powder particles can act as carriers for microbes and contaminants, potentially compromising sterile surgical fields or introducing foreign particles into wounds. Powder-free gloves mitigate this contamination risk, supporting stringent infection control measures essential for maintaining high standards of patient care and surgical outcomes. In terms of performance, powder-free gloves are favored for their improved tactile sensitivity and precision. The absence of powder allows for a smoother surface inside the glove, facilitating better grip and tactile feedback crucial for delicate surgical maneuvers. This enhanced sensitivity not only enhances surgical dexterity but also contributes to overall procedural efficiency and accuracy, minimizing the risk of errors during critical procedures.

North America is leading in the surgical glove industry due to advanced healthcare infrastructure, stringent quality standards, and significant investments in research and development.

North America's prominence in the surgical glove industry can be attributed to a combination of factors that collectively enhance its competitive edge on a global scale. At the forefront is the region's robust healthcare infrastructure, characterized by advanced medical facilities, well-established regulatory frameworks, and a strong emphasis on patient safety and infection control. These factors create a conducive environment for the development, manufacturing, and distribution of high-quality surgical gloves that meet stringent regulatory standards and cater to the diverse needs of healthcare professionals. In the United States and Canada, stringent quality standards enforced by regulatory bodies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Health Canada ensure that surgical gloves adhere to rigorous specifications regarding material integrity, manufacturing processes, and performance characteristics. Compliance with these standards is non-negotiable, fostering a culture of excellence and reliability in the production of medical devices, including surgical gloves. Manufacturers in North America are thus compelled to uphold these standards, driving innovation and continuous improvement in glove design, materials, and manufacturing techniques. North America's leadership in the surgical glove industry is bolstered by substantial investments in research and development (R&D). The region boasts a thriving ecosystem of academic institutions, healthcare research centers, and private companies dedicated to advancing medical technology and improving patient care. Investment in R&D not only fuels innovation in glove materials, such as the development of latex alternatives like nitrile and neoprene, but also drives enhancements in glove performance, durability, and comfort. North American manufacturers benefit from economies of scale and efficient distribution networks that enable timely supply to healthcare facilities across the continent and beyond. This logistical advantage plays a pivotal role in meeting the increasing global demand for surgical gloves, particularly in light of heightened awareness around infection prevention in healthcare settings. Another critical factor contributing to North America's leadership in the surgical glove industry is the region's responsiveness to emerging healthcare trends and regulatory changes. Manufacturers are adept at adapting to evolving market demands, such as the shift towards latex-free and powder-free gloves driven by concerns over allergies and infection control. This agility allows North American companies to maintain a competitive edge by offering products that align with current industry standards and preferences. The region's commitment to ethical manufacturing practices, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility further enhances its reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality surgical gloves. Manufacturers prioritize environmental stewardship and ethical labor practices, which resonate well with healthcare providers and end-users seeking products that uphold ethical standards throughout the supply chain.

Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• Surgical Gloves market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product
• Latex Gloves
• Nitrile Gloves
• Vinyl Gloves
• Neoprene Gloves
• Natural Rubber
• Others

By End Use
• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Ambulatory Surgical Centers
• Diagnostics Centers
• Others

By Distribution Channel
• Brick and Mortar
• E-commerce

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Surgical Gloves industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.