India's over-the-counter drugs market to hit Rs 98,000 crore by 2030: Report
- IBEF
- January 28, 2026
In the coming years, India will see a substantial increase in the sales of over the counter (OTC) medicines. The estimated total sales of OTC medications in India will be approximately Rs. 98,000 crore (US$ 11.8 billion) in 2030, based on an industry study. The findings of the study suggest that the OTC category continues to experience strong growth, even though it has already increased considerably in recent years. According to estimates made as of 2024, the OTC market in India was valued at approximately 47,000 crore (US$ 5.7 billion) and is expected to continue this growth path with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 13% until 2030. The projected continued growth of this category reflects changing attitudes regarding health and wellness by Indian consumers, along with greater availability through both traditional and online pharmacies and a growing demand for self-treatment of minor and/or non-life-threatening conditions.
According to industry analysts, India continues to be significantly under-penetrated as compared to other markets (globally) in OTC drugs, with an estimated per-capita OTC spending of less than one-tenth of the worldwide average. This indicates that there is a tremendous opportunity for future growth based on improvements in access and affordability of health care, improved consumer education about OTC drugs, the growing prevalence of lifestyle-related and chronic disease, and the continued trend toward convenient health solutions. Furthermore, the anticipated continued growth of the OTC drugs market is aligned with broader trends occurring within the Pharmaceutical Industry of India, which remains a large contributor to the economy through jobs, healthcare delivery systems, and exporting products and services. The OTC drugs market will also continue to grow as Indians continue to increase their self-care and preventive health practices by providing access to affordable, non-prescriptive healthcare products in both urban and rural communities across the country.
Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.
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