Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Size

• The Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market size was valued at USD 109.01 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 155.03 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 4.50% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fueled by the rising incidence of infectious diseases in the region, which is increasing the demand for accurate diagnostic tools to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Furthermore, advancements in diagnostic technologies, including automation and AI-driven solutions, are enhancing the efficiency and precision of AST procedures
• In addition, growing investments in healthcare infrastructure, government initiatives to strengthen antimicrobial stewardship, and increased awareness and training for healthcare professionals are expanding access to AST services. These converging factors are accelerating the adoption of antimicrobial susceptibility testing solutions, thereby significantly boosting the industry's growth

Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Analysis

• Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), encompassing manual and automated methods to determine the effectiveness of antibiotics against pathogens, is becoming an essential component of modern clinical diagnostics, pharmaceutical research, and veterinary healthcare in both human and animal health sectors due to its role in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and guiding targeted therapy
• The increasing demand for AST is primarily driven by the rising prevalence of infectious diseases, growing awareness of AMR, and the adoption of advanced diagnostic technologies, including rapid AST systems and AI-enabled testing platforms, which improve accuracy, efficiency, and turnaround time
• Saudi Arabia dominated the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market with the largest revenue share of 28.6% in 2024, supported by growing healthcare infrastructure, government initiatives on antimicrobial stewardship, and rising investments in laboratory facilities, particularly in tertiary hospitals and research centers
• South Africa is expected to be the fastest-growing country in the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market during the forecast period, due to increasing healthcare access, rising infectious disease burdens, and expanding laboratory networks supported by international health programs and public-private partnerships
• Rapid AST systems segment dominated the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market with a market share of 39.4% in 2024, driven by their ability to deliver faster results, reduce human error, and support timely clinical decision-making, making them the preferred choice for hospitals and diagnostic laboratories

Report Scope and Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Segmentation

Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Trends

Rapid and Automated Testing Driving Diagnostic Efficiency

• A significant and accelerating trend in the MEA antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) market is the growing adoption of rapid and automated AST systems. These systems allow laboratories to determine the susceptibility of pathogens to antibiotics much faster than traditional manual methods, significantly reducing turnaround times and enabling timely treatment decisions. In both hospitals and research centers, this speed is crucial for improving patient outcomes and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
  • For instance, automated systems such as VITEK® 2, BD Phoenix™, and MicroScan WalkAway are widely deployed across the region. These platforms offer fully automated workflows that can process multiple samples simultaneously, minimizing human error and enhancing reliability. By providing near real-time data on resistance patterns, these systems help clinicians make informed antibiotic selection, particularly in critical care and infectious disease wards
• Rapid AST platforms also integrate digital functionalities such as automated result interpretation, electronic record-keeping, and data visualization dashboards. Some advanced systems can detect multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) quickly, enabling hospitals to implement infection control measures promptly and reduce the spread of resistant strains
• Integration with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) and hospital management software allows centralized monitoring of results across multiple facilities, enabling a coordinated response to AMR outbreaks and optimizing the use of hospital resources. This level of connectivity and data integration is increasingly expected by healthcare providers and laboratory managers
• The trend toward automation and speed is reshaping expectations in clinical microbiology, as healthcare providers demand higher accuracy, faster results, and actionable insights. Companies such as bioMérieux, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Beckman Coulter are actively expanding their rapid AST offerings to meet the rising demand in the MEA region
• The adoption of rapid AST is growing in both human healthcare and veterinary applications, as timely detection of resistant pathogens is crucial for effective treatment, reducing unnecessary antibiotic use, and supporting antimicrobial stewardship programs

Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Dynamics

Driver

Rising Infectious Diseases and Increasing Awareness of AMR

• The MEA region faces a high prevalence of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, bloodstream infections, and hospital-acquired infections, driving demand for AST solutions. Awareness of antimicrobial resistance among healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public is increasing, emphasizing the need for accurate and timely diagnostic testing
  • For instance, in 2024, Saudi Arabia implemented national antimicrobial stewardship initiatives to monitor resistance patterns and optimize antibiotic use, directly increasing the adoption of AST systems in hospitals and diagnostic centers
• Rapid AST enables hospitals to make targeted antibiotic decisions, preventing overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics and reducing the spread of resistant strains. This contributes directly to improved patient outcomes, shorter hospital stays, and reduced healthcare costs
• Expansion of diagnostic laboratories, growing government healthcare investments, and adoption of modern testing techniques are all contributing to AST becoming a core component of routine healthcare workflows across the MEA region
•  Countries such as South Africa, are also increasing AST adoption through international partnerships, investments in healthcare infrastructure, and training of clinical laboratory staff, reflecting the growing recognition of AST’s importance

Restraint/Challenge

High Costs and Infrastructure Limitations in Certain Regions

• The relatively high cost of advanced AST systems and consumables compared to manual testing methods can hinder widespread adoption, particularly in lower-income countries within the MEA region
  • For instance, while rapid systems offer faster results, the initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs may be prohibitive for smaller clinics or laboratories in rural areas
• Limited laboratory infrastructure, shortage of trained personnel, and inconsistent electricity or internet access in some regions further challenge implementation
• Addressing these barriers requires cost-effective solutions, training programs for laboratory staff, and support for infrastructure development. Companies such as bioMérieux and Thermo Fisher are working on scalable solutions and regional partnerships to expand access while maintaining test accuracy and reliability
• Overcoming these challenges through affordable, user-friendly systems, capacity building, and strategic collaborations will be vital for sustaining market growth in the MEA AST sector

Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of product type, methods, type, application, end-user, and distribution channel.

• By Product Type

On the basis of product type, the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is segmented into instruments, consumables and accessories, and services and software. Instruments dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 41% in 2024. The dominance is attributed to the widespread adoption of automated and rapid AST systems across hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and research centers. Instruments such as VITEK® 2 and BD Phoenix™ offer high-throughput testing capabilities, ensuring faster and more reliable detection of resistant pathogens. The growing prevalence of infectious diseases and increasing focus on antimicrobial stewardship further boost instrument demand. Instruments also form the backbone for integrating advanced software and reporting tools, providing end-to-end solutions for clinical diagnostics. Moreover, government support and hospital investments in diagnostic infrastructure reinforce their market leadership.

Services and Software are expected to witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 9.3% from 2025 to 2032. Integration of AST platforms with laboratory information systems (LIS), electronic health records (EHRs), and cloud-based analytics enables real-time reporting and automated result interpretation. Software solutions support epidemiological surveillance, track resistance patterns, and optimize antibiotic usage. Subscription-based models and remote monitoring services are increasingly adopted, expanding the software market. Furthermore, the demand for digital data management and compliance with healthcare regulations drives this segment.

• By Methods

On the basis of methods, the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is segmented into mass spectrometry method, dilution, disk diffusion, e-test, genotypic methods, and others. Dilution Method dominated the market with a 35% share in 2024 due to its long-standing reliability in clinical microbiology. It is essential for determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of antibiotics and serves as a standard method in both manual and automated testing systems. Hospitals and research laboratories prefer this method for routine and confirmatory testing because of its reproducibility and accuracy. Dilution methods are also adaptable to automated AST systems, enhancing throughput and reducing manual errors. Their widespread acceptance in clinical guidelines ensures continuous demand. Moreover, regulatory approvals and standardization in laboratories contribute to the sustained dominance of this method.

Genotypic Methods are expected to witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 10.2% from 2025 to 2032. These methods, including PCR and sequencing-based assays, enable rapid detection of resistance genes, even in non-culturable pathogens. Their high speed, accuracy, and ability to provide actionable data make them suitable for clinical diagnostics, surveillance, and drug development. Genotypic methods support AMR monitoring programs and outbreak management in hospitals. Increasing availability of automated genotypic platforms and declining costs are further driving adoption. The rise in multidrug-resistant infections is also accelerating the uptake of genotypic testing.

• By Type

On the basis of type, the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is segmented into antibacterial testing, antifungal testing, and rapid-AST. Rapid-AST dominated the market with a 39.4% share in 2024 due to its ability to provide results in hours rather than days, which is crucial for timely clinical decision-making. Hospitals and laboratories increasingly adopt rapid AST systems to guide targeted therapy, reduce misuse of antibiotics, and support antimicrobial stewardship programs. Rapid-AST improves patient outcomes, reduces hospital stays, and helps control infection spread. Advanced systems integrate automated reporting, digital dashboards, and alert notifications, enhancing workflow efficiency. Furthermore, rapid-AST adoption is expanding in veterinary diagnostics and research applications. Its compatibility with automated instruments strengthens its dominant position.

Antifungal Testing is expected to witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 9.5% from 2025 to 2032, driven by the rising prevalence of invasive fungal infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Growing awareness of antifungal resistance and the need for timely detection are increasing the adoption of antifungal AST. Automated antifungal testing systems provide reproducible results and reduce manual errors. Pharmaceutical companies and research institutions also increasingly use antifungal testing in drug development. Expanding hospital diagnostic capabilities in the MEA region further support growth.

• By Application

On the basis of application, the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is segmented into clinical diagnostics, drug discovery and development, epidemiology, and others. Clinical Diagnostics dominated the market with a 42% share in 2024. The dominance is due to the critical need for rapid and accurate detection of resistant pathogens in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic laboratories. Timely results enable proper antibiotic selection and improve patient outcomes. The expansion of hospital laboratory networks and government initiatives for AMR control support clinical adoption. Increasing adoption of automated and rapid AST systems enhances efficiency and accuracy. Clinical diagnostics also drives demand for integration with software and reporting platforms. The segment’s reliability and central role in patient care ensure continuous growth.

Drug Discovery and Development is expected to witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2025 to 2032. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies rely on AST data to evaluate new antibiotics and antifungal agents, optimize clinical trial design, and monitor resistance patterns. Rapid and automated systems reduce research timelines and improve reproducibility. Increasing investment in antibiotic R&D and rising demand for novel therapeutics support growth. Integration with digital platforms allows seamless data analysis. Regulatory requirements for robust testing further accelerate adoption in this segment.

• By End-User

On the basis of end-user, the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is segmented into hospitals, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology companies, diagnostic laboratories, contract research organizations (cros), research centres and academic institutes, and others. Hospitals dominated the market with a 45% share in 2024, driven by high patient volumes and the critical need for rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases. Hospitals integrate automated AST systems into clinical workflows to reduce turnaround time and improve patient care. Government programs supporting hospital-based antimicrobial stewardship further reinforce adoption. Hospitals also benefit from training and support provided by key AST manufacturers. The reliability, accuracy, and high throughput of AST instruments make them indispensable for hospital laboratories. Expansion of hospital networks in urban and suburban areas sustains the demand for this end-user segment.

Diagnostic Laboratories are expected to witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 9.8% from 2025 to 2032. Rising outsourcing of clinical testing, expansion of private laboratory networks, and increasing adoption of rapid AST systems drive growth. Laboratories provide testing services for multiple hospitals, clinics, and research centers, boosting demand for high-throughput instruments. Integration with LIS and digital reporting enhances laboratory efficiency. Growing awareness of AMR and the need for accurate diagnostics in epidemiological studies further supports this segment. Laboratories also play a key role in veterinary and pharmaceutical testing, contributing to rapid market growth.

• By Distribution Channel

On the basis of distribution channel, the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is segmented into direct sales, retail sales, and third party distributor. Direct Sales dominated the market with a 52% share in 2024, as AST manufacturers prefer direct engagement with hospitals, diagnostic labs, and research institutes to provide installation, training, and after-sales support. Direct sales ensure proper usage and maintenance of sophisticated instruments and enhance customer trust. Many manufacturers offer service contracts and technical support bundled with direct sales, further strengthening adoption. Hospitals and research centers benefit from ongoing support, calibration, and software updates. Direct relationships also facilitate rapid deployment of new systems in key markets. The dominance of direct sales ensures consistent revenue for leading manufacturers.

Third Party Distributor is expected to witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 8.9% from 2025 to 2032. Distributors help expand market reach into remote, underserved, and emerging regions, providing timely delivery of consumables, instruments, and service support. Partnerships with local distributors reduce logistical challenges and improve access to smaller clinics and laboratories. Expanding healthcare access and rising demand for rapid AST solutions in rural areas are driving distributor-based sales. Distributors also provide localized support, training, and maintenance, enhancing adoption. This channel is increasingly important for penetrating secondary and tertiary cities across the MEA region.

Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Regional Analysis

• Saudi Arabia dominated the Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market with the largest revenue share of 28.6% in 2024, supported by growing healthcare infrastructure, government initiatives on antimicrobial stewardship, and rising investments in laboratory facilities, particularly in tertiary hospitals and research centers
• Healthcare providers in the country highly value the accuracy, speed, and reliability of AST systems, which enable timely diagnosis, targeted antibiotic therapy, and effective infection control. The integration of automated AST platforms with laboratory information systems further enhances workflow efficiency and data management
• The strong market presence in Saudi Arabia is supported by government policies promoting antimicrobial stewardship, the growing prevalence of infectious diseases, and partnerships with leading global AST manufacturers, establishing rapid and automated AST systems as preferred solutions for both clinical and research applications

The Saudi Arabia Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Insight

The Saudi Arabia antimicrobial susceptibility testing market captured the largest revenue share of 28% in 2024 within the MEA region, driven by increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure and rising awareness of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Hospitals and diagnostic laboratories are adopting rapid and automated AST systems to enable timely detection of resistant pathogens and guide targeted therapy. The growing integration of AST platforms with laboratory information systems (LIS) and digital reporting tools is further enhancing workflow efficiency. Government initiatives promoting antimicrobial stewardship and public health programs are also supporting market expansion. In addition, the high prevalence of infectious diseases and the presence of leading AST manufacturers reinforce Saudi Arabia’s position as the dominant market in the region.

South Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Insight

The South Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by expanding healthcare access, rising infectious disease prevalence, and the increasing adoption of advanced AST systems in hospitals and diagnostic laboratories. International partnerships and public-private initiatives are enhancing laboratory infrastructure and training, supporting rapid AST adoption. The growing awareness of AMR among healthcare professionals and policymakers is accelerating demand for automated testing platforms. Furthermore, South Africa is witnessing an expansion of laboratory networks and diagnostic services, particularly in urban centers, which is fueling market growth. The rising need for epidemiological surveillance and infection control programs further boosts the adoption of AST solutions.

Egypt Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Insight

The Egypt antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is witnessing significant growth due to government initiatives aimed at improving diagnostic capabilities and monitoring antimicrobial resistance trends. Hospitals and research centers are increasingly implementing rapid and automated AST systems to improve clinical outcomes and reduce the misuse of antibiotics. Public awareness campaigns and investment in healthcare infrastructure are strengthening the market. Integration of AST platforms with data management and reporting software enables better tracking of resistance patterns. Egypt’s strategic location in North Africa and collaborations with international diagnostic companies are also contributing to market expansion. Rising infectious disease incidence and demand for reliable clinical diagnostics are key factors driving the market.

United Arab Emirates Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Insight

The UAE antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is growing steadily, driven by the adoption of automated AST solutions in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and research facilities. Rapid AST systems are increasingly preferred for their ability to provide timely results and support effective antimicrobial stewardship programs. Government support for healthcare modernization and public health initiatives is enhancing market penetration. The integration of AST platforms with hospital management systems and cloud-based analytics enables real-time reporting and decision-making. UAE’s robust healthcare infrastructure and high expenditure on diagnostic technologies further strengthen the market. In addition, collaborations with leading global AST providers are accelerating technology adoption and market growth.

Nigeria Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Insight

The Nigeria antimicrobial susceptibility testing market is expected to grow at a substantial CAGR during the forecast period due to rising infectious disease prevalence, increasing healthcare infrastructure, and awareness of antimicrobial resistance. Diagnostic laboratories and hospitals are adopting rapid and automated AST systems to improve diagnostic accuracy and support targeted therapy. Government initiatives and international health programs are expanding laboratory capabilities and training. The growing private healthcare sector and increasing investment in clinical diagnostics are driving market expansion. Integration with digital reporting systems and epidemiological surveillance programs further enhances adoption. Rising demand for timely and accurate detection of resistant pathogens in both urban and rural areas is a key growth driver.

Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market Share

The Middle East and Africa antimicrobial susceptibility testing industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• BIOMÉRIEUX (France)
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (U.S.)
• Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (U.S.)
• BD (U.S.)
• Abbott (U.S.)
• Danaher (U.S.)
• Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (Germany)
• F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd (Switzerland)
• Siemens Healthineers AG (Germany)
• Cepheid (U.S.)
• Hologic, Inc. (U.S.)
• BioFire Diagnostics, LLC (U.S.)
• Sysmex Corporation (Japan)
• Mettler Toledo (Switzerland)
• Beckman Coulter, Inc. (U.S.)
• Illumina, Inc. (U.S.)
• PerkinElmer (U.S.)
• Agilent Technologies, Inc. (U.S.)
• VWR International, LLC (U.S.)

What are the Recent Developments in Middle East and Africa Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Market?

• In May 2025, Danaher Corporation partnered with AstraZeneca to develop and commercialize next-generation, AI-powered diagnostic tools. This partnership, which aims to scale precision medicine, is a critical development for the AST market. While the initial focus is on oncology, the framework for rapid diagnostics research and development is a template that can be applied to infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance
• In November 2024, the World Bank announced investments in programs such as REDISSE and HEPRR to tackle Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Africa. These initiatives focus on AMR surveillance, workforce training, and promoting local pharmaceutical development. The programs aim to enhance antimicrobial susceptibility testing capabilities across the continent, addressing the growing health crisis posed by drug-resistant infection
• In August 2024, QuantaMatrix, a leader in clinical microbiology diagnostics, introduced 'uRAST' (Ultra-Rapid Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing), the world's fastest all-in-one antimicrobial testing technology. This breakthrough was published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature, marking a significant achievement for the diagnostic industry
• In November 2023, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) initiated the establishment of a national surveillance system for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This early implementation phase focuses on monitoring and analyzing AMR patterns to inform public health strategies and interventions. The initiative aims to strengthen the country's capacity to combat AMR through data-driven decision-making and enhanced diagnostic capabilities
• In January 2023, bioMérieux introduced the MAESTRIA Rapid Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) system. This modular platform delivers actionable results for Gram-negative bacteria directly from positive blood cultures in approximately five and a half hours, enabling same-day treatment decisions for patients with bacteremic sepsis. The system's rapid turnaround time is particularly beneficial in critical care settings, enhancing patient outcomes by facilitating timely antibiotic therapy

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