Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Form (Fiber, Film, Granules, Others), By End-Use Industry (Medical, Oil & Gas, Packaging, Agriculture, Others) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2025-2033

Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) Market

The global polyglycolic acid (PGA) market size was valued at USD 5.09 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 5.55 billion in 2025 to reach USD 11.11 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 9.07% during the forecast period (2025–2033).

Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) is a biodegradable, thermoplastic polymer widely used in medical and industrial applications. It is synthesized through the polymerization of glycolic acid and is known for its high tensile strength and excellent biocompatibility. PGA is primarily used in absorbable surgical sutures, tissue engineering, and drug delivery systems. Its ability to degrade into non-toxic byproducts like glycolic acid makes it suitable for temporary implants. In industrial uses, it serves in packaging and oil extraction. PGA's biodegradability and mechanical properties make it a valuable material in sustainable solutions.

The global market is driven by several factors, including the increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly materials. As industries and consumers place more emphasis on eco-conscious solutions, PGA, being biodegradable, is gaining significant traction in various applications. Additionally, the expanding use of PGA in the oil and gas industry, particularly in the form of frac plugs and other degradable tools, is contributing to market growth. Furthermore, growing awareness and investment in biodegradable plastics in emerging economies are driving market expansion as companies in these regions seek alternative solutions to traditional plastics.

Current Market Trends

Expansion of research in PGA composites

A significant trend shaping the global polyglycolic acid (PGA) market is the surge in research focused on PGA-based composites for tissue engineering and drug delivery. PGA's biodegradability, mechanical strength, and compatibility with biological tissues make it highly attractive for advanced biomedical applications.

• For example, a 2022 study published in the Journal of Biomedical Research detailed research from the National Institute of Technology Rourkela, where scientists developed chitosan–polygalacturonic acid (PgA) fibrous scaffolds using hydrothermal treatment. These scaffolds exhibited superior mechanical properties and porosity, facilitating improved cell adhesion and osteogenic differentiation in vitro, key indicators of suitability for bone tissue engineering.

Such innovations highlight the expanding scope of PGA beyond conventional uses, reinforcing its role in next-generation regenerative medicine solutions.

Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) Market Growth Factors

Rising number of surgical procedures globally

One of the primary drivers of the global polyglycolic acid (PGA) market is the increasing number of surgical procedures worldwide. Polyglycolic acid is widely used in the production of absorbable sutures due to its excellent biodegradability and biocompatibility. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases, an aging population, and a growing preference for minimally invasive surgeries are contributing to the surge in surgical interventions.

• For instance, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 300 million surgical procedures are performed worldwide each year. In the United States alone, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that approximately 51.4 million inpatient surgical procedures are performed annually.

This growing surgical volume continues to fuel demand for absorbable materials like PGA.

Market Restraining Factors

High production costs and limited commercial availability

The high production costs of Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) pose a significant market restraint, making it less competitive compared to conventional polymers. The synthesis of PGA involves complex and expensive processes, which increase its overall cost. Additionally, the limited commercial availability of PGA, with a small number of manufacturers, restricts its widespread adoption. This shortage of supply leads to higher prices and supply chain inefficiencies, further hindering its potential in large-scale applications. As a result, industries often opt for more cost-effective alternatives, limiting the growth of the PGA market in comparison to traditional polymer materials.

Market Opportunities

R&D in blending PGA with other biopolymers

Ongoing research and development in the blending of Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) with other biopolymers are crucial to overcoming some of its inherent limitations, such as brittleness and limited ductility. These advancements aim to create more versatile and functional materials suitable for a broader range of applications. By combining PGA with other biodegradable polymers, researchers can optimize its mechanical properties, making it more adaptable for use in various industries, including packaging and medical devices.

• For instance, a 2023 study improved PGA's ductility by blending it with polycaprolactone (PCL) using an ionic chain extender. This method enhances compatibility between PGA and PCL, increasing ductility from 7.2% to 26.6%. This advancement shows promise for applications in biodegradable packaging and flexible medical devices, expanding PGA's potential in sustainable and functional products.

Such innovations open up opportunities for the PGA in applications requiring more flexibility while maintaining sustainability.

Regional Insights

The North American polyglycolic acid market is experiencing steady growth due to increasing adoption in medical applications, especially in surgical sutures and tissue regeneration. The region benefits from advanced healthcare infrastructure and ongoing R&D in biodegradable polymers. Furthermore, the expanding use of PGA in the oil and gas sector, particularly in downhole tools and frac plugs, supports market expansion. Regulatory support for eco-friendly materials is also propelling demand across medical, industrial, and packaging sectors.

• The Canadian polyglycolic acid industry is expanding due to rising surgical procedures and a growing focus on eco-friendly materials. PGA-based sutures are widely used in hospitals across Ontario and British Columbia. Additionally, the country's energy sector, especially in Alberta, is exploring PGA for temporary downhole tools in oil sand operations, promoting biodegradable solutions.

U.S. polyglycolic acid (PGA) market trends

• The United States polyglycolic acid industry is driven by extensive use in surgical sutures and orthopedic implants. Leading companies like Teleflex and B. Braun leverage PGA for absorbable sutures. Moreover, shale gas exploration in Texas and Pennsylvania boosts demand for degradable frac plugs, expanding PGA's footprint in both the healthcare and energy sectors.

Asia Pacific polyglycolic acid (PGA) market trends

Asia Pacific is witnessing rapid growth in the polyglycolic acid market due to rising healthcare investments, growing surgical procedures, and increasing industrial applications. The region's expanding packaging sector and focus on sustainable materials create a strong demand base. Additionally, the growing use of biodegradable polymers in oil exploration activities supports market traction. Strong manufacturing capabilities, combined with rising awareness of eco-friendly alternatives, are positioning the region as a key hub for PGA production and consumption.

• China's market is expanding due to its booming medical device sector and rising surgical procedures. The country's packaging industry is also adopting biodegradable materials like PGA to comply with green policies. For instance, domestic firms such as Shanghai Pujing Chemical are investing in PGA applications for oil & gas tools, enhancing market growth.
• India's market is driven by growing healthcare infrastructure and demand for absorbable sutures in rural surgeries. Additionally, government-led bans on single-use plastics are fostering interest in biodegradable polymers like PGA. Companies like Reliance Industries are exploring biopolymer production, signaling the potential for local PGA manufacturing aligned with sustainable packaging and oilfield service applications.

Europe polyglycolic acid (PGA) market trends

Europe's polyglycolic acid market is driven by stringent environmental regulations promoting biodegradable materials in packaging and medical applications. The region showcases robust demand for PGA in surgical sutures and implants due to a mature healthcare system and aging population. Additionally, the push toward circular economy practices fuels interest in sustainable polymers like PGA. Technological advancements in polymer blending and support for bioplastics in academic and industrial research are enhancing regional market growth potential across diverse industries.

• Germany's market for polyglycolic acid is driven by its advanced medical device sector, particularly in bioresorbable sutures and implants. Companies like B. Braun and Karl Storz are integrating PGA in surgical tools. Additionally, growing environmental regulations encourage the use of biodegradable polymers in packaging, aligning with Germany's push for sustainable alternatives in industrial and consumer applications.
• The UK polyglycolic acid industry benefits from innovations in minimally invasive surgery and regenerative medicine, with NHS-backed initiatives promoting absorbable biomaterials. Research institutions like the University of Oxford explore PGA-based scaffolds in tissue engineering. Furthermore, the UK's packaging sector is adopting biodegradable solutions like PGA to comply with plastic reduction mandates and circular economy goals.

Form Insights

Fiber holds the largest share in the polyglycolic acid (PGA) market owing to its exceptional tensile strength, biodegradability, and controlled hydrolysis properties. These characteristics make PGA fibers ideal for medical applications, particularly in absorbable surgical sutures and orthopedic devices. Their compatibility with human tissue and ability to degrade safely within the body further enhances their appeal in healthcare. Moreover, ongoing innovations in fiber-based biomedical scaffolds and drug delivery systems are reinforcing this segment's dominance, especially as the global demand for minimally invasive surgeries continues to rise.

The film segment is gaining traction in the PGA market due to its expanding use in biodegradable packaging and biomedical barriers. PGA films offer excellent gas barrier properties and biodegradability, making them ideal for food packaging, agricultural mulch films, and medical devices. Their ability to decompose quickly in the environment supports sustainability goals and regulatory shifts away from conventional plastics. In healthcare, PGA films are increasingly used in wound care and tissue engineering. Innovations in multilayer packaging and green materials are expected to further boost demand for this segment globally.

End-Use Insights

The medical industry dominates the market for polyglycolic acid due to the material's biocompatibility and safe degradation within the body. PGA is extensively used in absorbable sutures, tissue scaffolds, bone fixation devices, and drug delivery systems. The rise in surgical procedures, particularly laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgeries, is propelling demand for PGA-based products. Additionally, advancements in regenerative medicine and bioresorbable implants are further broadening their applications. With stringent healthcare regulations favoring bioabsorbable materials, the medical sector will likely maintain its lead in PGA consumption for the foreseeable future.

The oil and gas industry is emerging as a key end-user of PGA, particularly for its use in hydraulic fracturing tools such as degradable frac balls and plugs. PGA's predictable hydrolytic degradation eliminates the need for mechanical retrieval, reducing costs and downtime. Its performance in high-pressure, high-temperature environments makes it a suitable alternative to traditional materials. As the sector seeks eco-friendly and efficient downhole solutions, the adoption of PGA-based tools is expected to grow. This segment showcases PGA's expanding role beyond medical applications, especially in energy sector innovations.

Company Market Share

Companies in the polyglycolic acid market are focusing on expanding production capacities, enhancing polymer processing technologies, and developing customized grades for diverse applications such as medical sutures, oil and gas tools, and packaging. Strategic collaborations, investments in R&D, and exploration of bio-based feedstocks are common growth strategies. Firms are also targeting emerging markets and diversifying their portfolios with biodegradable solutions to align with global sustainability trends and regulatory shifts.

Recent Developments

• April 2025 – Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (MCC) has revealed plans to increase its production capacity for flame-retardant compounds at its manufacturing sites in Jiangsu, China, and Tiffauges, France. These compounds, which utilize polyolefins and thermoplastic elastomers, are primarily used in cable sheathing applications across sectors such as mobility, telecommunications, construction, and gas. The expansion is intended to address rising global demand, with the Chinese facility set to begin operations in April 2025 and the French facility following in January 2026.

Analyst Opinion

As per our analyst, the global polyglycolic acid (PGA) market is poised for steady growth driven by increasing demand in medical, packaging, and oil & gas applications. The polymer's exceptional biodegradability and mechanical strength make it ideal for use in absorbable sutures, tissue scaffolds, and degradable tools. Moreover, growing environmental regulations and the push for sustainable materials further bolster its market potential.

However, challenges such as high production costs, limited large-scale production facilities, and performance constraints in certain conditions may hinder widespread adoption. Despite these challenges, ongoing research in composite formulations and expanding applications in emerging markets present significant growth opportunities.

Innovations in material science and supportive regulatory frameworks are expected to offset current limitations, positioning PGA as a key material in the biodegradable polymer space over the coming years. Industry players focusing on cost-effective production will be well-positioned to capitalize on this evolving market.