Global Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Size, Share, and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Global Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Segmentation, By Treatment Type (Chemotherapy, Targeted Therapy, and Others), Route of Administration (Oral, Parenteral, and Others), End-Users (Hospitals, Homecare, Speciality Centres, and Others), Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacy, Online Pharmacy, and Retail Pharmacy) - Industry Trends and Forecast to 2032

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Size

• The global gastrointestinal stromal tumor market size was valued at USD 1.28 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.15 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 6.60% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fueled by the increasing prevalence of GIST cases worldwide and advancements in targeted therapies, particularly tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which are significantly improving treatment outcomes and survival rates
• Furthermore, rising awareness among healthcare professionals and patients, coupled with enhanced diagnostic tools and government initiatives supporting rare cancer treatments, is fostering greater early detection and intervention. These converging factors are accelerating the adoption of effective treatment solutions, thereby significantly boosting the industry's growth

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Analysis

• Gastrointestinal stromal tumors, rare cancers originating in the digestive tract’s connective tissue, are increasingly recognized due to improved diagnostic imaging and molecular testing, making them a critical focus area within the oncology therapeutics landscape for both healthcare providers and pharmaceutical developers
• The escalating demand for gastrointestinal stromal tumor treatment is primarily fueled by the rising incidence of gastrointestinal cancers, increasing awareness of rare cancer types, and the growing availability of targeted therapies such as imatinib and sunitinib that offer improved patient outcomes
• North America dominated the gastrointestinal stromal tumor market with the largest revenue share of 40.8% in 2024, driven by robust healthcare infrastructure, extensive cancer research funding, and a high rate of early diagnosis and treatment adoption, particularly in the U.S., where clinical trials and FDA approvals continue to support market growth
• Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the gastrointestinal stromal tumor market during the forecast period due to expanding healthcare access, government cancer control initiatives, and a rising elderly population prone to gastrointestinal malignancies
• The targeted therapy segment dominated the gastrointestinal stromal tumor market with a market share of 62.2% in 2024, propelled by its effectiveness in managing unresectable or metastatic tumors and its growing inclusion in global clinical practice guidelines.

Report Scope and Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Segmentation    

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Trends

“Precision Oncology and Targeted Therapy Advancements”

• A significant and accelerating trend in the global gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is the continued development of precision oncology and next-generation targeted therapies, which are reshaping the treatment landscape by offering personalized and highly effective treatment protocols based on tumor genetics

  • For instance, therapies such as avapritinib (for PDGFRA-mutant GIST) and ripretinib (for advanced-stage treatment-resistant cases) represent recent breakthroughs tailored to specific mutations, enabling more individualized care with improved efficacy and fewer systemic side effects

• Advances in genomic profiling now allow for the precise identification of mutations in KIT or PDGFRA genes, which helps oncologists tailor treatment plans and switch therapies based on resistance profiles. Technologies such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) are becoming integral in guiding treatment decisions and clinical trial enrollment
• The integration of companion diagnostics with targeted drugs is improving patient outcomes by ensuring the right therapy is used at the right time. In addition, pharmaceutical companies are expanding their research on novel kinase inhibitors and combination therapies to address treatment resistance in later-stage patients
• This trend toward mutation-specific treatment and biomarker-driven drug development is redefining the standard of care in GIST. Consequently, leading players such as Deciphera Pharmaceuticals and Blueprint Medicines are intensifying their focus on mutation-targeted GIST therapies
• The demand for personalized medicine and innovative targeted treatment options is growing rapidly across developed and emerging markets, driven by rising diagnostic capabilities, clinical trial activity, and oncologist preference for mutation-directed therapies

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Dynamics

Driver

“Rising Incidence and Improved Diagnostic Techniques”

• The increasing global incidence of gastrointestinal stromal tumors, combined with advancements in diagnostic imaging and molecular testing, is a key driver for the expanding gastrointestinal stromal tumor market

  • For instance, in 2024, Novartis announced expanded access programs for its gastrointestinal stromal tumor treatment portfolio in underserved regions, aiming to improve early diagnosis and access to effective treatments

• As awareness of rare cancers grows among clinicians and patients, GIST is being detected more frequently through techniques such as endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy and CT imaging. Earlier and more accurate detection allows for timely intervention using targeted therapies, improving survival rates
• Furthermore, the availability of advanced biomarker-based tests and growing investment in oncology infrastructure, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, are contributing to greater patient identification and therapeutic access
• The emergence of new treatment guidelines and standardized protocols for mutation testing prior to initiating therapy are also accelerating the use of targeted agents and combination regimens, fueling growth across the global gastrointestinal stromal tumor market

Restraint/Challenge

“Treatment Resistance and High Therapy Costs”

• A major challenge to market expansion lies in the issue of acquired resistance to existing therapies such as imatinib, which limits long-term effectiveness in many patients and necessitates new lines of treatment

  • For instance, secondary mutations in KIT or PDGFRA genes can render initial therapy ineffective, requiring the development and approval of novel drugs such as ripretinib and cabozantinib, which come with high costs and are not universally accessible

• The high cost of advanced targeted treatments and companion diagnostics poses affordability concerns in low- and middle-income regions. Patients without insurance or access to national cancer programs often face significant financial barriers to treatment
• In addition, the rarity of GIST results in limited patient populations for clinical trials, prolonging drug development timelines and increasing R&D costs
• Overcoming these challenges through the development of affordable generics, expanded access initiatives, and continued research into resistance mechanisms will be vital to sustaining growth and improving outcomes in the global gastrointestinal stromal tumor market

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of treatment type, route of administration, end-users, and distribution channel

• By Treatment Type

On the basis of treatment type, the gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is segmented into chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and others. The targeted therapy segment dominated the market with the largest market revenue of 62.2% share in 2024, driven by the effectiveness of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as imatinib, sunitinib, and regorafenib in treating KIT and PDGFRA-mutant GISTs. These therapies are now the standard of care for advanced and metastatic GIST, offering prolonged progression-free survival with relatively manageable side effects.

The chemotherapy segment is anticipated to witness fastest growth during forecast period due to its limited efficacy in GIST treatment. However, it remains relevant in certain treatment-resistant or undifferentiated cases.

• By Route Of Administration

On the basis of route of administration, the gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is segmented into oral, parenteral, and others. The oral segment held the largest market share in 2024, driven by the preference for oral tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as imatinib and avapritinib, which are commonly prescribed for long-term treatment. Oral formulations offer better patient compliance, convenience, and lower hospitalization rates, contributing to their widespread adoption.

The parenteral segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2032, due to the use of injectable therapies in late-stage disease management or in clinical settings where oral formulations are unsuitable. Advances in novel parenteral agents and injectable biosimilars may further expand this segment in the future.

• By End Users

On the basis of end-users, the gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is segmented into hospitals, homecare, specialty centers, and others. The hospital segment dominated the market in 2024 due to the concentration of diagnostic facilities, surgical interventions, and advanced treatment administration in these settings. Hospitals are often the first point of contact for patients undergoing biopsy, surgery, and systemic therapy initiation.

The homecare segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2032, supported by the rise in outpatient management of GIST, oral TKI therapies, and improved remote monitoring capabilities. Homecare allows for long-term treatment adherence while reducing the financial burden of inpatient care. Specialty centers also contribute significantly, especially in developed markets with dedicated oncology clinics for rare cancers.

• By Distribution Channel

On the basis of distribution channel, the gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is segmented into hospital pharmacy, online pharmacy, and retail pharmacy. The hospital pharmacy segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2024, reflecting the centralized dispensing of specialized cancer drugs through hospital networks that ensure controlled access and proper handling of high-value therapeutics.

The online pharmacy segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2032, due to the increasing adoption of digital health platforms, rising preference for home delivery of oral cancer medications, and growing acceptance of telemedicine. Online platforms offer convenience, prescription management tools, and wider access in remote areas. The retail pharmacy segment maintains steady growth, primarily serving outpatient prescriptions for ongoing oral therapy.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Regional Analysis

• North America dominated the gastrointestinal stromal tumor market with the largest revenue share of 40.8% in 2024, driven by robust healthcare infrastructure, extensive cancer research funding, and a high rate of early diagnosis and treatment adoption, particularly in the U.S., where clinical trials and FDA approvals continue to support market growth
• Patients and healthcare providers in the region benefit from widespread access to genomic testing, enabling precise identification of KIT and PDGFRA mutations that guide targeted treatment decisions
• This dominance is further supported by robust insurance coverage, high awareness of rare cancers, and active participation in clinical trials, positioning North America as a global leader in the adoption and development of innovative GIST therapies

U.S. Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Insight

The U.S. gastrointestinal stromal tumor market captured the largest revenue share of 83% in North America in 2024, driven by robust healthcare infrastructure, early access to precision diagnostics, and widespread adoption of targeted therapies such as imatinib and avapritinib. High awareness of rare cancers, strong insurance coverage, and the presence of leading pharmaceutical companies actively involved in clinical research contribute to the dominance of the U.S. market. Furthermore, increasing use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and biomarker-driven treatment approaches continue to advance personalized medicine in GIST management.

Europe Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Insight

The Europe gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is projected to grow at a substantial CAGR throughout the forecast period, driven by advancements in oncology diagnostics, increasing availability of targeted therapies, and national rare disease programs. Countries across the region are implementing molecular testing strategies for early identification of KIT and PDGFRA mutations, improving treatment outcomes. The growing adoption of centralized cancer registries, combined with government support for orphan drug development, is also accelerating the uptake of innovative therapies across the region.

U.K. Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Insight

The U.K. gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is anticipated to grow at a noteworthy CAGR during the forecast period, propelled by the National Health Service’s (NHS) emphasis on expanding access to genomic testing and targeted treatments. Rising incidence of gastrointestinal cancers and efforts to streamline diagnostic pathways are enhancing early detection and patient outcomes. In addition, the U.K.'s involvement in international clinical trials and cancer research collaborations supports the introduction of next-generation therapies for treatment-resistant GIST cases.

Germany Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Insight

The Germany gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is expected to expand at a considerable CAGR, driven by the country’s strong focus on precision oncology, access to cutting-edge molecular diagnostics, and growing participation in pan-European cancer initiatives. A high standard of cancer care, combined with widespread implementation of guideline-based treatment using TKIs and growing demand for second-line therapies, is promoting steady market growth. Moreover, patient advocacy groups and academic research institutions play a pivotal role in improving GIST awareness and access to advanced care.

Asia-Pacific Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Insight

The Asia-Pacific gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is poised to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2032, fueled by increasing cancer awareness, improving diagnostic infrastructure, and rising healthcare expenditures in countries such as China, Japan, and India. Government-backed oncology initiatives and growing access to generic versions of TKIs are broadening treatment availability. Furthermore, rising investments in cancer genomics and the expansion of regional clinical trials are supporting faster adoption of innovative therapies across emerging economies.

Japan Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Insight

The Japan gastrointestinal stromal tumor market is gaining momentum due to a strong focus on personalized medicine, an aging population, and the country’s well-integrated healthcare system. Japanese oncologists frequently employ molecular diagnostics for early detection and targeted therapy selection. The government’s active role in funding orphan drug development and the presence of advanced research institutions support market growth. In addition, increased physician familiarity with rare cancers is driving better clinical outcomes through appropriate, mutation-specific treatments.

India Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Insight

The India gastrointestinal stromal tumor market accounted for the largest revenue share in Asia Pacific in 2024, supported by a large and growing patient base, expanding access to healthcare services, and rising public-private investments in cancer treatment infrastructure. Increased availability of affordable TKIs and the government's push for early cancer screening are improving treatment access. In addition, the growing presence of domestic pharmaceutical companies and diagnostic labs offering cost-effective testing options is further stimulating GIST therapy adoption in urban and semi-urban regions.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market Share

The gastrointestinal stromal tumor industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• Pfizer Inc. (U.S.)
• Novartis AG (Switzerland)
• Merck & Co., Inc. (U.S.)
• F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. (Switzerland)
• Bayer AG (Germany)
• Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (U.S.)
• Sanofi (France)
• AbbVie Inc. (U.S.)
• Lilly (U.S.)
• AstraZeneca (U.K.)
• Celgene Corporation (U.S.)
• Blueprint Medicines Corporation (U.S.)
• Deciphera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (U.S.)
• TAIHO PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD. (Japan)
• DAIICHI SANKYO COMPANY, LIMITED (Japan)
• Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (India)
• Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. (India)
• Zydus Group (India)
• Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (Israel)
• HUTCHMED (China)

What are the Recent Developments in Global Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Market?

• In January 2025, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) completed the acquisition of IDRx Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing precision therapies for genetically defined cancers including GIST. This acquisition, valued at up to USD 1.15 billion, strengthens GSK’s oncology pipeline, particularly with IDRX-42, a novel KIT/PDGFRA inhibitor showing promising early clinical activity in patients with GIST resistant to standard treatments. The deal underscores GSK’s strategic focus on genetically targeted cancer therapies and its growing commitment to the GIST treatment landscape
• In March 2025, Cogent Biosciences announced positive results from its Phase III PEAK trial, which evaluated bezuclastinib in combination with sunitinib for patients with advanced GIST. The combination therapy demonstrated improved safety and efficacy over sunitinib alone, offering new hope for second-line treatment following imatinib failure. This advancement is expected to reshape treatment protocols for patients with drug-resistant forms of GIST
• In January 2025, Kura Oncology initiated its Phase Ia/Ib KOMET-015 clinical trial, evaluating ziftomenib, an investigational oral menin inhibitor, in combination with imatinib for the treatment of advanced GIST. The study aims to assess safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy in patients who have failed prior therapies. The initiation of this trial reflects the growing interest in novel combination regimens to overcome resistance in GIST treatment
• In April 2024, early clinical data on olverembatinib, a third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), showed promising activity in SDH-deficient and TKI-resistant GIST subtypes. The drug, originally developed for leukemia, is being repurposed for rare GIST cases where standard TKIs show limited benefit. This development points toward a broader application of next-generation TKIs in mutation-specific GIST care
• In March 2025, Hoth Therapeutics reported significant preclinical results for HT-KIT, a novel oral therapy targeting KIT mutations commonly found in GIST. Animal model data demonstrated reduced tumor burden and rapid tumor cell death, supporting its transition to first-in-human trials. The results mark a potential new front in the fight against treatment-resistant GIST tumors

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