Current Development of the Global Molecular Diagnostics Market and the Potential of Taiwanese Industry

Molecular diagnostics provides greater precision and earlier diagnosis focusing on genetic materials of the target being tested. For example, serum molecular tests for HIV, HBV, and HCV overcome the window of undetectability in general immune assay to analyze viral genetic materials in blood samples; understand the risk of potential genetic disorders through the decoding of personal human genome using next-generation sequencing; or screening for appropriate treatment drugs and enhancement of efficacy through gene chip analysis. These technologies greatly elevate efficiency in health care and reduce disease risk. Recent progress in genomics and bioinformatics, breakthroughs in micro-electro-mechanical systems technology and rapid development in molecular diagnostics promote rapid growth in the field of in-vitro diagnostics, especially for next-generation sequencing in genetic sequencing and biomarker markets. According to a study by Frost & Sullivan, global market size for molecular diagnostics in 2014 was US$ 6.3 billion, an increase of 11% on 2013. The market is estimated to be worth US$10.2 billion with CAGR of 12.7% in 2018, becoming the fastest growing sub-category in the global in-vitro diagnostics market.

There are many companies in Taiwan involved in molecular diagnostics and each company has its own specialty in the field. Through the application of multiple-screening platforms using knowledge accumulated from basic research, and integration of several test markers in development trends for molecular diagnostics, the precision and scope of application may be enhanced and widened. Taiwanese companies may have the chance to continue finding niche markets in specific applications if they integrate resources and techniques.