Japan’s CAR-T Market Set to Nearly Double by 2030
Introduction to Market Forecast
According to a news article (CAR-T細胞療法市場 30年に390億円、24年から２倍近く拡大 富士経済 | ニュース | ミクスOnline) published by MIX Online on July 11, 2025, Japan’s CAR‑T cell therapy market is forecasted to grow from approximately 20 billion yen in 2024 to around 39 billion yen in 2030—almost doubling in six years. CAR‑T cell therapies involve collecting a patient’s immune cells, modifying them to attack cancer cells, and reinfusing them into the patient. Currently, five CAR‑T products targeting hematologic malignancies have been approved in Japan.
Drivers Behind Market Expansion
The anticipated growth is attributed to increasing adoption despite high treatment costs, driven by the expansion of medical facilities equipped to administer CAR‑T therapies and the gradual increase in eligible patient numbers. Enhanced healthcare infrastructure and insurance coverage have also supported this trend.
Expanding Indications Beyond Hematologic Cancers
Although current CAR‑T therapies mainly target hematologic cancers, research and development are advancing toward expanding indications into solid tumors. This shift could significantly broaden the patient base and further drive market growth.
Advancements in Manufacturing and Cost Reduction
Improving manufacturing efficiency and reducing production costs are also crucial growth factors. Developments in automated manufacturing processes and new technologies supporting allogeneic (off-the-shelf) CAR‑T therapies are expected to enhance scalability and accessibility.
Regulatory and Policy Support
Japan’s government and regulatory agencies have continued to support innovative cell therapies, facilitating faster approval processes and encouraging the development of advanced treatments. These supportive policies strengthen the environment for CAR‑T market expansion.
Opportunities for Domestic and Global Players
The projected market growth provides an attractive opportunity for domestic and international pharmaceutical and biotech companies. Companies developing CAR‑T therapies targeting new cancer types or leveraging next-generation technologies may secure a competitive edge in the Japanese market.
Conclusion
Japan’s CAR‑T cell therapy market is entering a rapid growth phase, nearly doubling by 2030. Driven by infrastructure improvements, expanded indications, technological advances, and supportive regulations, the market offers significant opportunities for innovative players aiming to deliver transformative cancer treatments to Japanese patients.