Introduction: Vietnam's Laboratory Industry - Driving Scientific Development
Vietnam's laboratory equipment market is experiencing a breakthrough growth phase, establishing itself as one of the most promising markets in the Asia-Pacific region. According to research from Ken Research, the market is valued at USD 1.3 billion in 2025, reflecting robust demand for advanced laboratory technologies and significant investments in healthcare infrastructure as well as research and development (R&D)
This growth is driven by several key factors: expansion of healthcare infrastructure, increased R&D investment, and government initiatives aimed at improving laboratory service quality and promoting scientific research. Notably, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and adoption of preventive medicine practices are also creating significant opportunities for the industry
This article provides detailed analysis of Vietnam's laboratory equipment market, the critical role of Analytica Vietnam 2025 exhibition, emerging technology trends shaping the industry's future, and development opportunities for enterprises in the context of digital transformation and automation.
Overview of Vietnam Laboratory Equipment Market
Market Size and Growth Drivers
According to analysis from Ken Research based on five-year historical data, Vietnam's laboratory equipment market is valued at USD 1.3 billion, reflecting strong demand for advanced laboratory technologies. This size confirms Vietnam's position in the region, especially when compared with specific segments such as laboratory centrifuges reaching USD 145 million.
Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi continue to dominate the market due to their concentration of educational institutions, research centers, and healthcare facilities. These urban hubs attract both domestic and international laboratory equipment providers, benefiting from a skilled workforce and advanced infrastructure.
Academic and research institutions are the leading end-users, reflecting Vietnam's strategic focus on scientific innovation and education. Public hospital laboratories hold significant market share thanks to government funding and widespread presence, while private hospital labs and independent diagnostics centers are rapidly expanding, driven by increasing healthcare demand.
Key Market Drivers
1. Increased Healthcare Investment: According to data from Ken Research, Vietnam is projected to allocate around USD 6 billion to healthcare diagnostics in the future, reflecting a 9% increase from the previous year. This rising demand necessitates advanced laboratory equipment to enhance testing efficiency and accuracy.
2. Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Sector Growth: Vietnam's biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries are expanding rapidly, with the government aiming for a USD 12 billion market in the future. Future investments in these sectors are expected to reach USD 1.5 billion, fostering innovation and research, thus creating demand for sophisticated laboratory equipment.
3. Government Initiatives: According to the National Strategy for Development of Vietnam's Pharmaceutical Industry to 2030 with a vision to 2045, this sector will clearly expand exponentially. The Vietnamese government has set a goal for at least 15 laboratories to reach advanced international standards by 2025, underscoring strategic direction to bolster scientific infrastructure and capabilities.
4. Digital Transformation and Automation: Integration of digital solutions such as Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), Electronic Health Records (EHR), and external databases is becoming a strategic necessity as laboratories scale.
Analytica Vietnam 2025: Leading Regional Exhibition
Record-Breaking Achievements of the Ninth Edition
Analytica Vietnam 2025, the leading international trade fair for laboratory technology, biotechnology, analysis, and diagnostics, successfully concluded its 9th edition from April 2-4, 2025 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC). Organized by MMI Asia Pte Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary and regional headquarters of Messe München GmbH (MMG), in collaboration with Vietnam Exhibition and Event Services Co., Ltd (VNEES), and supported by Vietnam's Ministry of Science and Technology.
The event surpassed all previous records in attendance and international participation:
- 6,657 visitors, including 5,908 unique attendees from 37 countries, reflecting a 23% increase compared to 2023
- 214 exhibitors from 18 countries, a 52% increase from the previous year
- 7,000 sqm exhibition space, a 56% increase compared to 2023
- 770 conference delegates participating in professional programs
- 71% international exhibitors, underscoring the event's global appeal
Prakash Mishra, Head of Vietnam SLS Commercial at Merck Vietnam, remarked: "The quality of visitors this year has been very good—we've met professionals from across Asia, Europe, and even the US who are genuinely interested in understanding and entering the Vietnam market. For us, this has been an excellent opportunity to connect with both local and international partners."
Participating Exhibitors and Brands
Analytica Vietnam 2025 brought together over 300 companies and leading brands in the industry, including:
Leading global equipment manufacturers: Shimadzu, Merck, Anton Paar, Waters, Thermo Fisher Scientific (through FUJIFILM Wako), Mettler Toledo, LECO Corporation
Vietnamese distributors and agents: ITS Vietnam, DKSH Vietnam, HTI Scientific, Hóa Việt, Kimteco, 2H Instrument, Nam Khoa Biotek, DV Med Group
National pavilions: Singapore, Germany, China, Malaysia, United Kingdom expanded international pavilions, bringing the latest advances from leading technology centers and laboratories.
For the first time, Hall A1 reached full capacity six months ahead of the event, driven by strong interest from international exhibitors eager to explore Vietnam's rapidly growing laboratory and biotechnology markets.
Professional Programs and Highlights
Beyond the extensive exhibition area, Analytica Vietnam 2025 delivered valuable first-hand knowledge through a series of well-received side events:
1. Academic Conference: Thought leaders discussed the latest research and trends in laboratory sciences.
2. Lab Design & Construction Forum: The forum featured insights from industry leaders and experts on how modern design principles are transforming laboratory facilities to meet the growing demands of science, research, and industry.
3. Innovation Zone: A dedicated space showcasing breakthrough technologies transforming laboratory operations and industry practices. Attendees explored cutting-edge products and solutions shaping the future of laboratory technology.
4. Lab Tours: Specially curated lab tours took participants behind the scenes of leading research and testing facilities in Vietnam, providing deeper understanding of local industry advancements.
5. Business Matching & Hosted Buyer Programme: Facilitated targeted networking opportunities and connected high-level decision-makers from Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and other ASEAN countries with exhibitors.
Laboratory Technology Trends 2025
Automation and Robotics
Automation and robotics are revolutionizing laboratory workflows. Automated systems increase efficiency, help reduce human error, and enable high-throughput screening. According to research from Synergy by SRG, 75% of lab leaders view automation as important to innovation, with 28% considering it critical.
For example, robotic arms and automated pipetting systems are becoming commonplace, allowing for precise and repeatable processes. Laboratories are integrating AI-driven robots capable of handling complex tasks, from sample preparation to data analysis.
According to predictions from experts at Lab of the Future USA 2025 conference, most biopharmaceutical organizations are transitioning from "islands of automation" toward integrated systems, with fully autonomous labs projected for 2027-2028.
AI and Machine Learning in Laboratories
Artificial intelligence (AI) took center stage at SLAS 2025, with AI-powered lab systems now capable of:
- Automated Data Analysis: AI can process, analyze, and flag anomalies in large datasets, eliminating manual bottlenecks
- Smart Sample Routing: AI-driven LIMS can predict sample priority and dynamically optimize workflows for faster turnaround times
- Predictive Maintenance: AI monitors instrument performance in real-time, reducing downtime by anticipating failures before they occur
- Smart Experiment Design: AI not only executes experiments but designs them, continuously learning and optimizing processes without constant human supervision
Companies like AstraZeneca are using AI lab automation software to improve compound screening and predictive analytics, significantly reducing discovery time and development costs.
Digital Transformation and Cloud Computing
Digitalization of laboratory processes is transforming how data is collected, stored, and analyzed. Cloud-based lab platforms and IoT-enabled devices are transforming labs into smart laboratories:
- Remote Monitoring: Enables scientists to monitor experiments remotely through cloud platforms
- Digital Collaboration: Supports seamless collaboration across geographical boundaries
- Data Integration: Seamless data integration across multiple systems, from LIMS to EHR
- Digital Twins: Allow simulation and optimization of laboratory processes before real-world deployment
Precision Medicine and Genomics Development
Advances in genomics and personalized medicine are transforming healthcare laboratories. The ability to sequence genomes quickly and accurately has opened new avenues for understanding diseases at a molecular level. Many laboratories are focusing on developing targeted therapies based on individual genetic profiles.
This trend is leading to more effective treatments with fewer side effects, revolutionizing patient care and enabling personalized health solutions.
Sustainability and Green Laboratories
Sustainability was a hot topic at SLAS 2025, with strong emphasis on how automation can drive greener lab practices:
- AI-Optimized Energy Usage: Smart automation adjusts equipment energy consumption based on real-time needs
- Automated Waste Reduction: Precision dispensing systems minimize reagent waste while maintaining compliance
- Recyclable Lab Consumables: New advances in eco-friendly lab materials designed to reduce carbon footprint
Challenges and Development Opportunities
Major Challenges
1. Infrastructure Constraints: Despite rapid economic growth, Vietnam's healthcare infrastructure remains underdeveloped compared to more advanced countries. Many diagnostic labs struggle with inadequate facilities, outdated equipment, and limited access to essential resources.
2. Import Dependency: According to Vietnam's Ministry of Health, over 90% of medical equipment is sourced from abroad, primarily from Japan, Germany, the US, China, and Singapore. Products from these countries account for 55% of Vietnam's total imports of medical equipment.
3. Stringent Regulations: The Vietnamese government has implemented stringent new regulations aimed at improving healthcare quality, enhancing patient safety, and fostering greater transparency across the medical industry. These regulations create challenges for equipment import and distribution.
4. High Initial Investment Costs: Although technology costs are falling and cloud-based lab platforms are rising, adoption remains challenging even for small and mid-sized labs.
5. Workforce Shortage: The widespread shortage of healthcare workers also presents challenges for labs facing shortages of highly skilled laboratory professionals.
Strong Development Opportunities
1. Rapidly Growing Market: Vietnam's medical devices market is expanding rapidly, projected to reach USD 2.47 billion by 2029, with a CAGR of 8.62% from 2025 to 2029. This sustained growth is driven by rising healthcare expenditure and efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure.
2. Aging Population: Vietnam currently has over 1,300 hospitals and medical facilities serving more than 100 million people. Simultaneously, its population is aging, with the share of elderly individuals rising from approximately 12% in 2019 to nearly 14% by 2023, creating high demand for diagnostic services.
3. Increased Health Awareness: Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and willing to invest in healthcare products and equipment. Industry reports indicate that healthcare spending surged by nearly 25%, increasing from USD 153 to USD 189 per capita.
4. Technology Transfer Initiatives: Vietnam has introduced strategic initiatives to attract foreign investment and promote technology transfer, strengthening growth outlook for the medical devices sector.
5. Analytica Vietnam Expansion: Building on the remarkable success of Analytica Vietnam 2025, MMI Asia is set to extend its reach across Vietnam. Analytica Convention 2026 will take place from April 22-24, 2026, at the International Exhibition Center (ICE) in Hanoi. The full-scale edition will return to Ho Chi Minh City from March 31 to April 2, 2027.
Future Direction and Forecasts
Long-term Growth Outlook
Vietnam's laboratory equipment market is forecast to continue strong growth in coming years. The diagnostic labs market was estimated at USD 1,289.4 million in 2023 and is expected to maintain a stable growth trajectory with an anticipated CAGR of 6.7% through 2029.
This positive outlook is attributed to recovery of direct services and domestic consumption. Vietnam's pharmaceutical industry is on the rise, with market revenue rapidly increasing from USD 5.4 billion in 2018 to USD 6.5 billion in 2021.
Technologies Shaping the Future
Key technology trends that will shape the laboratory of the future include:
1. Fully Autonomous Laboratories: According to forecasts, fully autonomous laboratories are projected for 2027-2028, with integrated AI systems capable of self-optimization.
2. Cognitive and Agentic AI: In 2026, we'll see deeper integration of cognitive systems and agentic AI in laboratories. These technologies will move beyond simple data analysis to become truly anticipatory—proactively suggesting next actions based on complex data analysis.
3. Laboratory Operating System Platforms: Thermo Fisher Scientific is leading with a vision of an AI-native Automated Digital Lab, enabled by a laboratory operating system—that most importantly, is open by design and collaborative by nature.
4. Code Agents and Generative AI: Code agents represent the next frontier in digital transformation. An expert panel led by Dr. Julie Huxley-Jones from Vertex likened them to generative AI three years ago—making them a space to watch closely.
Role of Trade Exhibitions
Exhibitions like Analytica Vietnam play a critical role in:
- Ecosystem Connection: Creating bridges between manufacturers, distributors, end-users, and researchers
- Technology Transfer: Introducing the latest technologies and solutions from leading global centers
- Capacity Building: Through conferences, forums, and professional training programs
- International Collaboration: Creating cross-border partnership and investment opportunities
Conclusion
Vietnam's laboratory equipment market is entering a promising new development phase with strong growth momentum, supportive government policies, and increasing demand from multiple sectors. With a market size of USD 1.3 billion in 2025 and sustainable growth prospects, the industry is becoming an attractive destination for both domestic and international investors.
Analytica Vietnam 2025 proved its pivotal role as a leading connection platform for the entire industry, from manufacturers and technology suppliers to distributors and end-users. With 6,657 visitors from 37 countries and 214 exhibitors, the event not only showcased products and services but also served as a venue for knowledge exchange, trend updates, and partnership opportunities.
Technology trends such as automation, AI, digital transformation, and precision medicine are reshaping how modern laboratories operate. To sustain growth momentum and competitiveness, Vietnamese enterprises need to:
- Invest in digital transformation and technology upgrades
- Strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities to reduce import dependency
- Develop high-quality human resources for the industry
- Leverage connection platforms like Analytica Vietnam for learning and collaboration
- Orient toward sustainable and environmentally friendly development
With proper preparation, investment in technology, and orientation toward sustainability, Vietnamese laboratory enterprises can fully capitalize on opportunities from this industry's strong development, contributing to building a thriving and sustainable science and technology ecosystem.
References
- Ken Research (November 2025). "Vietnam Laboratory Equipment Market Report"
- Ken Research (November 2025). "Vietnam Laboratory Centrifuges Market Analysis"
- MMI Asia Pte Ltd (April 2025). "Analytica Vietnam 2025 Post-Event Report"
- Vietnam Briefing (June 2024). "The Laboratory Market in Vietnam: Current Trends and Future Prospects"
- Vietnam Briefing (October 2025). "Vietnam's Medical Devices Market Outlook"
- Expert Market Research (2025). "Vietnam Diagnostic Labs Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034"
- SRG Talent (2025). "Exploring Top Laboratory Trends in 2025"
- Clinical Lab Products (November 2024). "Experts See 17 Laboratory Trends Dominating 2025"
- Frost & Sullivan (July 2025). "Lab Automation Trends for 2025: Market Drivers and Future Growth"
- TetraScience (2025). "Lab of the Future USA 2025: Key Takeaways and Industry Insights"
- Scispot (2026). "The Lab of the Future Unveiled: How Technology is Transforming Scientific Discovery"
- Vietnam Ministry of Science and Technology (April 2025). "Analytica Vietnam 2025 Official Report"
Content prepared under Nexpo Editorial Standard v1

