Vinesh Gadhia, CEO, Ferty9 Fertility Center highlights that one of the key factors driving investor interest in the fertility sector is the remarkable technological advancements over the past few years
In recent times, the healthcare industry has been undergoing rapid transformation, with new and exciting opportunities emerging across various sectors. One such sector that has captured the attention of investors and experts alike is the Indian fertility industry. The rising need for fertility interventions and the progress in reproductive medical practices has created an exceptional platform for expansion. With the changing societal norms, the sector is poised for remarkable growth, presenting a promising avenue for investment.
The fertility revolution in India: One of the primary drivers behind the rising interest in the fertility sector is the escalating demand for fertility services. With increasing awareness about fertility issues and advancements in medical technologies, more individuals and couples are seeking fertility treatments to fulfill their dreams of parenthood. Factors such as delayed family planning due to career pursuits, changing lifestyles, and rising infertility rates contribute to the growing need for assisted reproductive technologies. This burgeoning demand has opened doors for innovative fertility solutions, thus making the fertility sector a hotspot for investment.
Technological advancements: One of the key factors driving investor interest in the fertility sector is the remarkable technological advancements over the past few years. The emergence of AI in fertility clinics has been a transformative development in the field of assisted reproductive technologies. Innovative techniques such as in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT), and egg freezing have significantly increased success rates and expanded the scope of fertility treatments. These breakthroughs not only offer new possibilities for prospective parents, but also attract investors seeking cutting-edge opportunities in the healthcare sector.
Progressing legal and regulatory landscape: Another significant factor driving investor interest in the fertility sector is the dynamic evolution of the legal and regulatory landscape. The Indian government has laid down guidelines to ensure ethical practices and patient safety in fertility treatments. Numerous nations have witnessed advancements in reproductive legislation, leading to a wider spectrum of fertility offerings and enhanced accessibility to such services. Additionally, favorable government policies and attractive financial incentives have spurred private investment inflow into fertility clinics and associated services.
Shifting social perspectives: The way society views fertility treatments has undergone a positive transformation, diminishing the stigma once attached to seeking reproductive help. With more individuals openly sharing their fertility treatment journeys, there’s been a notable rise in societal endorsement of these procedures. This change in outlook has played a significant role in driving up the demand for fertility services, effectively catching the interest of investors.
Globalisation of fertility services: The progress in transportation and communication has paved the way for the global expansion of fertility services. Individuals now possess the ability to connect with fertility clinics and experts worldwide, giving rise to a trend of medical tourism within the fertility domain. This worldwide accessibility has generated fresh prospects for international investments, amplifying the allure of the industry.
Holistic approach to healthcare: Investing in the fertility sector also aligns with the broader shift towards holistic healthcare in India. As more individuals prioritise their well-being, including reproductive health, the demand for comprehensive fertility solutions is set to soar. By investing in this sector, not only are investors contributing to the financial landscape, but they are also supporting a sector that is making a profound impact on individuals’ lives.
Considering the factors mentioned above, it is anticipated that the fertility sector is poised to experience significant expansion in the coming years. Several notable markers that emphasise the industry’s promising path include the expansion of market opportunities, the increase in revenue, and the geographic diversification of business operations.
Market scope and revenue upsurge: The global market for in vitro fertilisation attained a value of USD 23.6 billion in 2022, with projections indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.72 per cent from 2023 to 2030, illuminating a trajectory of sustained expansion.
Within India itself, there exists more than 2,500 fertility clinics, reflecting the country’s substantial engagement with the sector, boasting the second-largest volume of treatment cycles across the globe.. Remarkably, India’s IVF market is expected to flourish, surging from $793 million in 2020 to $3,722 million by 2030, bearing an impressive CAGR of 16.5 per cent.
Global outreach: As medical tourism gains momentum within the fertility sector, clinics are actively pursuing avenues for international expansion. This strategic growth approach aims not only to broaden the clientele, but also to encourage cross-border investments.
The growing attraction of investors to the fertility sector stands as evidence of the nation’s extraordinary potential as a global focal point for fertility solutions. With an ongoing surge in demand for fertility services and the opportunities created by technological advancements, the industry is set for significant growth. Investors who grasp the intricate interplay of social, economic, and technological forces driving this expansion are in a favorable position to capitalise on the numerous opportunities that thrive in this emerging domain.