Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

The Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) Market is segmented by Product, Method, Application, End Users, and Geography, product, with the primary categories including manual and automated systems, along with reagents and consumables. Automated AST systems have seen significant advancements in recent years, offering increased speed, accuracy, and throughput in identifying microbial resistance patterns. These systems are increasingly adopted in clinical laboratories due to their efficiency in processing large volumes of samples. Manual methods, such as disk diffusion and broth microdilution, are still widely used, particularly in resource-limited settings, due to their lower initial investment cost. The demand for reagents and consumables, including antimicrobial discs, test panels, and culture media, remains a critical component of the market, supporting both automated and manual testing procedures.

The method segment includes conventional methods such as disk diffusion, broth microdilution, and agar dilution, alongside newer techniques like molecular diagnostics and automated systems. Molecular methods like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) are gaining traction due to their ability to rapidly detect resistance genes and identify specific pathogens. These methods offer enhanced precision and are particularly useful for detecting multi-drug-resistant organisms (MDROs). As antimicrobial resistance (AMR) continues to rise globally, the demand for more advanced and efficient AST methods is expected to increase, especially in settings where rapid results are crucial for effective treatment.

The market is also segmented by application, including clinical diagnostics, food safety, and environmental testing, among others. Clinical diagnostics is the largest application segment, driven by the increasing prevalence of infectious diseases and the growing concern over AMR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing plays a crucial role in guiding appropriate therapy, improving patient outcomes, and reducing the spread of resistant pathogens. Food safety and environmental testing are also significant segments, particularly as antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens becomes a growing concern. In terms of end users, the primary segments include hospitals and diagnostic laboratories, which rely heavily on AST to provide accurate and timely results for patient management. Additionally, research organizations and pharmaceutical companies contribute to the market by investing in the development of new AST technologies and drugs to combat resistant infections. Geographically, North America and Europe dominate the market, owing to advanced healthcare infrastructure and stringent regulations on antimicrobial use. However, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to see significant growth, driven by rising healthcare demands, increased government focus on antimicrobial resistance, and improving healthcare access in developing countries.

Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market has been segmented by Product, Method, Application, End Users, and Geography.

Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market, Segmentation by Product

The Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market has been segmented by Product into Manual Tests, MIC Strips, Susceptibility Testing Disks, Susceptibility Plates, Automated Instruments, and Consumables & Media.

The Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) Market is segmented by product, with key categories including manual tests, MIC strips, susceptibility testing disks, susceptibility plates, automated instruments, and consumables & media. Manual tests involve traditional methods of testing microbial resistance, including dilution techniques and disk diffusion methods, which, while accurate, can be time-consuming and require significant technical expertise. In contrast, MIC strips and susceptibility testing disks provide more efficient alternatives for determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) or assessing bacterial resistance patterns. These products are essential in clinical microbiology to identify effective treatment options for bacterial infections.

Automated instruments have become increasingly popular due to their speed, accuracy, and ability to handle high volumes of tests with minimal human intervention. These instruments, which include fully automated systems and semi-automated machines, offer advantages in terms of reducing human error and streamlining the testing process. The growing adoption of these instruments is driven by their ability to provide rapid results, which are crucial in guiding timely and appropriate antimicrobial treatments. Alongside automated systems, consumables and media such as agar plates, nutrient broths, and growth media are essential components in AST, providing the necessary environment for microbial growth and susceptibility testing.

The demand for susceptibility testing plates has risen with the increasing need for high-throughput testing and the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Susceptibility plates provide a standardized method for determining bacterial resistance to various antimicrobial agents, making them indispensable in clinical laboratories. As global concerns over AMR continue to rise, the need for accurate and efficient AST methods is paramount. The combination of traditional and advanced technologies in this market helps healthcare providers accurately diagnose infections, identify the most effective treatments, and combat the growing threat of resistant pathogens, ensuring better patient outcomes and slowing the spread of antimicrobial resistance.

Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market, Segmentation by Method

The Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market has been segmented by Method into Disk Diffusion, Automated Ast, Dilution, E Test, and Genotypic Methods.

The Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) Market is segmented by method, with key techniques including Disk Diffusion, Automated AST, Dilution, E Test, and Genotypic Methods. Disk Diffusion remains one of the most commonly used traditional methods for determining antimicrobial resistance. This method involves placing antibiotic-impregnated paper discs on an agar plate inoculated with a bacterial sample. The zone of inhibition around the disc is measured to assess the effectiveness of the antibiotic, providing a clear visual result of bacterial susceptibility. Despite its simplicity and low cost, Disk Diffusion can be time-consuming and may require experienced technicians to interpret the results.

The Automated AST method has gained popularity due to its ability to provide rapid, precise results with minimal manual intervention. This technique uses advanced instrumentation to automatically perform tests, reducing the possibility of human error and offering quicker turnaround times. Automated systems can process multiple samples simultaneously, making them ideal for large-scale clinical settings where high-throughput testing is required. These systems also offer greater reproducibility and standardization, crucial for ensuring consistent and accurate results in identifying the most effective antimicrobial treatments.

Dilution methods such as broth dilution and agar dilution are essential in determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of an antibiotic, providing quantitative data on bacterial resistance. The E Test is a semi-automated approach that combines both dilution and diffusion principles, using strips that contain a gradient of antibiotics to determine MIC in a single step. Lastly, Genotypic Methods focus on detecting genetic mutations and markers associated with antimicrobial resistance, offering a molecular approach to AST. These methods are increasingly used for detecting resistance in difficult-to-culture bacteria and providing rapid and accurate resistance profiles. The ongoing advancements in these methods help address the rising challenge of antimicrobial resistance, ensuring more targeted and effective treatments for infections.

Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market has been segmented by Application into Drug Development, Susceptibility Testing, and Others.

The Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) Market is segmented by application into Drug Development, Susceptibility Testing, and Others. In drug development, AST plays a crucial role in the discovery and testing of new antibiotics. Pharmaceutical companies rely on AST to evaluate the efficacy of potential antimicrobial agents against a variety of bacterial strains. This application is essential in identifying promising compounds that could be developed into new drugs, particularly in the face of increasing antibiotic resistance. Drug development processes rely on AST to understand the specific mechanisms of action and effectiveness of a drug, guiding decisions on dosage and administration.

Susceptibility testing is another key application of AST, primarily used in clinical settings to guide the treatment of bacterial infections. This method helps healthcare providers identify the most effective antibiotic for a patient, especially in cases of resistant infections. By determining the susceptibility of pathogens to different antibiotics, AST aids in personalized medicine, ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate and effective treatment. The growing prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacteria has heightened the demand for accurate and rapid susceptibility testing, driving innovation in AST technologies and methods.

The Others category encompasses a variety of additional applications, such as in research and academic settings, where AST is used to study bacterial resistance patterns and the mechanisms underlying antibiotic resistance. This information is critical for advancing scientific knowledge in microbiology and resistance epidemiology. Additionally, AST is also employed in veterinary medicine, where it is used to assess the effectiveness of antimicrobial treatments for animals, ensuring that antimicrobial resistance does not spread from animal populations to humans. As the demand for more robust and reliable antimicrobial testing grows, AST's applications are expanding beyond clinical settings to include environmental monitoring and public health research.

Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market, Segmentation by End Users

The Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market has been segmented by End Users into Diagnostic Laboratories & Hospitals , Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies , Research & Academic Institutes, and Contract Research Organizations.

Diagnostic laboratories and hospitals represent the largest end-user segment within the AST market, encompassing clinical laboratories, microbiology departments, and healthcare facilities where AST is performed to guide antibiotic therapy decisions and manage infectious diseases in patients. These settings rely on AST to provide timely and accurate susceptibility testing results, enabling clinicians to select appropriate antimicrobial treatments and optimize patient care.

Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies constitute another significant end-user segment of the AST market, leveraging AST technologies to support antimicrobial drug discovery and development efforts. These companies utilize AST data to assess the efficacy of novel antimicrobial compounds against microbial pathogens, identify drug candidates with promising activity profiles, and conduct preclinical and clinical studies to evaluate drug safety and efficacy. AST plays a critical role in guiding the selection of lead compounds, optimizing drug formulations, and assessing drug resistance profiles to address the evolving challenges of antimicrobial resistance.

Research and academic institutes represent key contributors to the AST market, conducting basic and translational research to advance our understanding of infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, and diagnostic technologies. These institutions utilize AST methodologies to investigate microbial pathogenesis, characterize resistance mechanisms, and develop innovative diagnostic assays and therapeutic strategies. Additionally, research institutes play a crucial role in training the next generation of scientists, clinicians, and laboratory professionals in the field of infectious disease diagnostics and antimicrobial stewardship.

Contract research organizations (CROs) provide specialized laboratory services to pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, and government agencies, supporting drug discovery, development, and regulatory submissions. CROs offer expertise in conducting AST studies, including assay development, validation, and regulatory compliance, to facilitate the advancement of antimicrobial therapies from preclinical research through clinical trials. These organizations play a vital role in accelerating the drug development process, reducing time to market, and addressing the urgent need for new antimicrobial agents to combat emerging infectious diseases and drug-resistant pathogens.

Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America typically commands a significant portion of the market share, driven by well-established healthcare systems, high disease prevalence, and strong investment in infectious disease diagnostics. The United States, in particular, contributes substantially to the North American market share, owing to its large patient population, high prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens, and advanced laboratory technologies.

Europe represents another major market for AST, characterized by diverse healthcare systems, regulatory frameworks, and diagnostic practices across different countries. Countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France are significant contributors to the European market share, leveraging sophisticated laboratory infrastructure, extensive surveillance programs, and collaborative research initiatives to address antimicrobial resistance and infectious disease threats. Despite economic challenges and healthcare budget constraints in certain regions, Europe maintains a considerable market share in AST, driven by its commitment to antimicrobial stewardship and public health initiatives.

Asia-Pacific Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa are witnessing rapid growth in the AST market, fueled by increasing healthcare expenditures, rising awareness of antimicrobial resistance, and expanding access to diagnostic services. Countries such as China, India, Brazil, and South Africa are experiencing a surge in infectious diseases' prevalence and antimicrobial resistance rates, driving demand for innovative AST solutions and surveillance programs. Moreover, advancements in laboratory infrastructure, technology adoption, and healthcare reforms are facilitating the expansion of AST services in previously underserved areas, further driving market growth and penetration.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Increasing Prevalence of Drug-Resistant Infections
• Technological Advancements in Testing Methods
• Growing Awareness of Antimicrobial Stewardship

• Rising Incidence of Healthcare-Associated Infections - The rising incidence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) presents a significant challenge for healthcare systems worldwide, highlighting the need for robust infection prevention and control measures. HAIs, also known as nosocomial infections, are infections acquired during the course of receiving healthcare treatment in a hospital or other healthcare facility. These infections can occur in various settings, including surgical sites, intensive care units, and long-term care facilities, and are often caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens.

  Several factors contribute to the increasing incidence of HAIs, including the growing complexity of medical procedures, the rising prevalence of drug-resistant pathogens, and the aging population with multiple comorbidities. Invasive procedures, such as surgeries, catheterizations, and mechanical ventilation, increase the risk of HAIs by providing opportunities for pathogens to enter the body and cause infections. Moreover, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics contribute to the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance, making infections more difficult to treat and increasing the risk of treatment failure.

  Efforts to address the rising incidence of HAIs require a multifaceted approach that encompasses infection prevention and control strategies, antimicrobial stewardship programs, and surveillance and monitoring systems. Healthcare facilities implement strict protocols for hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and sterilization to minimize the transmission of pathogens and prevent HAIs. Additionally, antimicrobial stewardship programs promote judicious antibiotic use, reducing the risk of antimicrobial resistance and healthcare-associated infections.

Restraints

• Antibiotic Overuse and Misuse
• Limited Access to Healthcare Facilities
• High Cost of Testing

• Stringent Regulatory Requirements - Stringent regulatory requirements serve as a cornerstone of the healthcare industry, ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of medical products and services. Regulatory agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in Europe, establish and enforce standards and guidelines governing the development, manufacturing, and marketing of healthcare products, including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and diagnostic tests.

  Compliance with regulatory requirements is essential for companies operating in the healthcare sector to bring products to market and maintain their licenses or approvals. Regulatory frameworks set rigorous standards for product safety, performance, and labeling, requiring manufacturers to conduct thorough testing, clinical trials, and risk assessments to demonstrate product efficacy and safety. Additionally, regulatory authorities conduct inspections and audits of manufacturing facilities and quality management systems to ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and other regulatory standards.

  While stringent regulatory requirements help protect public health and maintain consumer confidence in healthcare products, they also pose challenges for industry stakeholders. Meeting regulatory requirements can be time-consuming, resource-intensive, and costly, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups with limited resources and expertise. Moreover, regulatory processes may vary between countries and regions, requiring companies to navigate complex and evolving regulatory landscapes to access global markets.

Opportunities

• Development of Rapid and Automated Testing Platforms
• Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Testing
• Expansion of Point-of-Care Testing

• Personalized Medicine Approaches - Personalized medicine approaches, also known as precision medicine, are revolutionizing healthcare by tailoring medical treatment and interventions to individual characteristics, such as genetic makeup, biomarker profiles, and lifestyle factors. This paradigm shift represents a departure from the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to healthcare, offering the potential for more targeted, effective, and personalized interventions that maximize therapeutic outcomes while minimizing adverse effects.

  Personalized medicine approaches hold promise across a wide range of medical disciplines, from oncology and cardiology to infectious diseases and neurology. In oncology, for example, molecular profiling of tumors allows oncologists to identify specific genetic mutations or biomarkers driving cancer growth and select targeted therapies that are most likely to be effective for individual patients. Similarly, in cardiology, genetic testing and risk stratification tools enable cardiologists to identify individuals at heightened risk of cardiovascular disease and implement preventive interventions tailored to their genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors.

  Personalized medicine approaches are driving innovation in diagnostic testing, drug development, and treatment modalities. Advances in pharmacogenomics, for instance, enable healthcare providers to predict how individuals will respond to medications based on their genetic profiles, guiding the selection of appropriate drug therapies and dosages. Moreover, the development of companion diagnostics—tests that identify biomarkers predictive of treatment response—facilitates the targeted use of novel therapeutics, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

Key players in Global Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market include :

• Biomrieux
• Danaher
• BD
• Thermo Fisher
• Bio-Rad
• Hi-Media
• Merlin
• Liofilchem
• Accelerate Diagnostics
• Alifax

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis