South America Preclinical CRO Market Overview
As per MRFR analysis, the South America Preclinical CRO Market Size was estimated at 622 (USD Million) in 2023. The South America Preclinical CRO Market Industry is expected to grow from 657(USD Million) in 2024 to 1,200 (USD Million) by 2035. The South America Preclinical CRO Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 5.629% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035)
Key South America Preclinical CRO Market Trends Highlighted
The South American Preclinical CRO Market is experiencing significant trends that are being driven by the region's increasing investment in research and development, particularly in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. The funding initiatives of governments in countries such as Brazil and Argentina have been intensified in order to foster innovation, resulting in heightened collaborations between local institutions and global CROs. The region's allure to foreign investment has been significantly increased as a result of this collaborative endeavor, which is designed to optimize drug development process and guarantee regulatory compliance.
Local firms are pursuing specialized services to address emerging markets, such as biotechnology and agrochemical advancements, which present substantial growth opportunities. The emphasis on biopharmaceuticals and personalized medicine is compelling CROs to modify their offerings to ensure that they fulfill the unique requirements of clients in South America. Additionally, the region's diverse ecosystems offer distinctive research opportunities, particularly for companies that are interested in the development of novel therapies from natural resources. Recent trends suggest a transition to digital transformation in the preclinical services sector.
This encompasses the utilization of artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance operational efficiency and data analysis. A more comprehensive approach to research is being facilitated by improved connectivity and data sharing capabilities, which is resulting in a more efficient and expedited preclinical phase.Furthermore, as South America's diverse patient demographics and abundant biodiversity render it a center for clinical trials, contract research organizations (CROs) are better equipped to meet the increasing demand for personalized research solutions. The growth potential of the South American preclinical CRO market is collectively enhanced by these trends.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
South America Preclinical CRO Market Drivers
Rising Investment in Pharmaceutical Research and Development
The South America Preclinical Contract Research Organization (CRO) Market is significantly driven by the increasing investment in Pharmaceutical Research and Development (R&D). Governments across South America, including Brazil and Argentina, have been actively promoting Research and Development by introducing incentives that aim to boost the pharmaceutical sector. According to a recent report from the Brazilian Ministry of Health, spending on pharmaceutical R&D has increased by over 15% in the past five years, indicating a growing recognition of the importance of innovation in medicine and drug development.
This investment is crucial as it directly correlates to the demand for preclinical CRO services, which provide vital support in the early stages of drug development and testing. Established organizations like Astellas Pharma and Merck have also expanded their R&D operations in Brazil, thus enhancing the demand for preclinical studies and services offered by local CROs. This overall trend sets a strong foundation for future growth in the South America Preclinical CRO Market Industry.
Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases
The rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases in South America is a significant driver for the South America Preclinical CRO Market. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), non-communicable diseases account for approximately 75% of deaths in Brazil, with cancer incidence rising by more than 20% in the last decade alone. The alarming increase in cancer cases necessitates extensive preclinical testing and research for effective drug development.Pharmaceutical giants like Novartis and Roche are investing heavily in clinical trials and preclinical studies focusing on these chronic conditions, further intensifying the demand for preclinical CRO services in the region. The ever-increasing need for effective treatments creates a robust opportunity for growth in this market segment.
Expanding Biotechnology Sector
The biotechnology sector in South America is witnessing rapid expansion, creating a substantial market for preclinical CRO services. Countries such as Brazil and Chile have prioritized biotechnology as a key driver for economic development and healthcare innovation. According to the Brazilian Association of Biotechnology, the country has recorded a year-on-year growth of over 10% in biotechnology startups, underlining the surge in demand for preclinical testing and related services.Prominent biotechnology firms such as Biolab and Eurofarma are increasingly collaborating with local CROs to facilitate their drug discovery processes, fostering an environment conducive to growth in the South America Preclinical CRO Market Industry. As the biotechnology ecosystem continues to thrive, the demand for preclinical CRO services will correspondingly rise to support these innovations.
South America Preclinical CRO Market Segment Insights
Preclinical CRO Market Service Type Insights
The South America Preclinical Contract Research Organization (CRO) Market's Service Type segment plays a crucial role in the overall landscape, reflecting the region's growing focus on enhancing drug development processes. The various categories within this segment highlight the diverse needs of pharmaceutical companies, with Biologics Testing, Small Molecule Testing, Toxicology Testing, and Pharmacology Testing each contributing uniquely to research and development initiatives. Biologics Testing is particularly significant, addressing the increasing demand for innovative therapies derived from biological sources, necessitating advanced testing methods to ensure safety and efficacy.
Meanwhile, Small Molecule Testing serves as a backbone for traditional drug development, still favored for its cost-effectiveness and established methodologies. Toxicology Testing remains a critical area, as safety assessments are paramount before advancing any candidate to clinical trials, safeguarding patient health and regulatory compliance. Pharmacology Testing also holds importance, assisting in understanding drug interactions and efficacy profiles, which are vital for regulatory submissions and market acceptance.
As the South America Preclinical CRO Market evolves, these service types are positioned to meet the growing complexities of drug development and regulatory expectations, emphasizing the need for robust research capabilities throughout the region.The continuous advancements in technology and methodologies, coupled with an increasing investment in the biopharmaceutical sector, pave the way for expanded service offerings within this segment, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and success of drug development processes in South America.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Preclinical CRO Market Therapeutic Area Insights
The Therapeutic Area segment within the South America Preclinical Contract Research Organization (CRO) Market is a crucial component of the overall landscape, reflecting the diverse health challenges faced in the region. Oncology has emerged as a significant focus, driven by the rising prevalence of cancer and the urgent need for innovative treatment strategies tailored to local populations. Neurology continues to gain traction due to increasing cases of neurological disorders and the demand for effective therapies.
Cardiology also plays a vital role as cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, prompting sustained investment in research and development within this field.Additionally, the rise of infectious diseases, especially in the wake of global health crises, has underscored the importance of this area. As the population becomes more aware of health issues, the South America Preclinical CRO Market is witnessing a shift towards targeted therapies, highlighting the importance of understanding regional health needs.
This diverse therapeutic focus presents vast opportunities for research, contributing to the ongoing development of effective medical solutions tailored to meet the specific health challenges present in South America.
Preclinical CRO Market Validation Type Insights
The South America Preclinical CRO Market is segmented into key validation types including In Vivo Studies, In Vitro Studies, Comparative Studies, and Regulatory Studies, all of which play pivotal roles in drug development and safety evaluation. In Vivo Studies focus on the biological assessment of therapeutic candidates in living organisms, which is critical for understanding pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. In contrast, In Vitro Studies provide early insights regarding efficacy and toxicity through controlled laboratory environments, offering significant cost-effective leads for further drug development stages.Comparative Studies are essential for evaluating the relative efficacy and safety of new therapeutics against existing ones, thus helping researchers identify competitive advantages.
Regulatory Studies are indispensable, ensuring compliance with national and international guidelines, which is increasingly important in the highly regulated South American markets. The growing emphasis on precision medicine and evolving biotech innovations are also propelling the demand for specialized services within these validation types, aligning with the increasing focus on successful drug approval rates and patient safety.
Overall, the diversification within the Validation Type serves as a solid foundation for advancing the capabilities of the South America Preclinical CRO Market, catering to the unique needs of pharmaceutical companies operating in the region.
Preclinical CRO Market End User Insights
The End User segment of the South America Preclinical CRO Market reflects a diverse landscape, encompassing Pharmaceutical Companies, Biotechnology Companies, Academic Institutions, and Research Organizations. Pharmaceutical Companies constitute a significant share as they heavily rely on preclinical research to ensure safety and efficacy before clinical trials. Biotechnology Companies are also gaining prominence in this segment due to their innovative approaches to drug development, particularly in specialized therapies.
Academic Institutions play a crucial role in advancing scientific research and frequently collaborate with contracted research organizations to facilitate innovative studies.Furthermore, Research Organizations support diverse industries by providing essential services that contribute to preclinical studies. The rising focus on drug development, particularly in Latin America, where governmental support for Research and Development is evolving, drives demand in this segment. The redistribution of resources and investments from established pharmaceutical firms towards biotechnology innovations enhances the overall growth of this segment.
As the industry evolves, the End User segment is becoming increasingly important in shaping the trajectory of the South America Preclinical CRO Market, reflecting trends of collaboration and innovation within the region.
Preclinical CRO Market Regional Insights
The South America Preclinical CRO Market is experiencing significant growth, influenced by various factors such as increased Research and Development activities and supportive regulatory frameworks. Brazil stands out as a market leader, driven by substantial investment in biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, along with a rising trend in drug development initiatives. Mexico is also making strides with its favorable geographic location and growing number of Research and Development partnerships, contributing positively to the regional landscape.Argentina, while smaller, shows promise due to a robust healthcare system and government support for innovation in clinical research.
The Rest of South America benefits from a diverse range of ecosystems that foster collaboration between educational institutions and industry, enhancing the overall market growth. Collectively, these regions contribute to the dynamic landscape of the South America Preclinical CRO Market, reflecting a strong shift towards collaborative approaches to drug development and enhanced healthcare solutions.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
South America Preclinical CRO Market Key Players and Competitive Insights:
The South America Preclinical CRO Market has become increasingly competitive, fueled by an ever-expanding demand for pharmaceutical research and development services. The evolving landscape of biotechnology and rising investment in drug development have highlighted the essential role of Contract Research Organizations (CROs) in preclinical research processes. The market is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging firms, each striving to offer innovative solutions that cater to the unique regulatory and research challenges of the region. As companies focus on building comprehensive service portfolios, they aim to leverage local partnerships and enhance operational efficiencies, thereby creating a dynamic environment that significantly shapes competition and collaboration among stakeholders within South America.Safire has established a strong presence in the South America Preclinical CRO Market, known for its expertise in providing tailored solutions that cater specifically to the needs of various clients in the biopharmaceutical industry.
One of the major strengths of Safire includes its deep understanding of the local regulatory landscape, which allows the company to navigate compliance issues effectively while accelerating timelines for drug development. In addition, Safire has garnered a reputation for its robust scientific capabilities, allowing for a diverse range of preclinical studies across multiple therapeutic areas. The firm's ability to form strategic alliances and collaborations with local academic institutions and industry partners further solidifies its competitive advantage, positioning it as a trusted partner in preclinical research across South America.Syneos Health, with its broad portfolio of services in the South America Preclinical CRO Market, has carved out a notable space for itself by offering comprehensive solutions that encompass both therapeutic and operational expertise.
The company is particularly strong in integrating scientific and commercial insights to expedite the drug development process. One of Syneos Health's key strengths lies in its ability to provide end-to-end services, which enhances clients’ capabilities in conducting preclinical studies. The firm has also made strategic investments through mergers and acquisitions to bolster its presence and operational capabilities in the region. These moves have allowed Syneos Health to expand its service offerings and enhance its market position. With key products that support a wide range of preclinical programs, the company's innovative approach positions it well to meet the growing demands of the biopharmaceutical sector in South America.
Key Companies in the South America Preclinical CRO Market Include
- Safire
- Syneos Health
- Genoa Healthcare
- KCR
- Medpace
- Wuxi AppTec
- PharmaSeek
- PharmaNet
- Boehringer Ingelheim
- Eurofins Scientific
- Covance
- PRA Health Sciences
- Charles River Laboratories
- ICON plc
- Labcorp Drug Development
South America Preclinical CRO Market Industry Developments
The South America Preclinical Contract Research Organization (CRO) Market has witnessed notable developments recently, showcasing a dynamic landscape. Companies such as Syneos Health and Charles River Laboratories have been expanding their presence, reflecting the growth in biopharmaceutical development in the region. A significant merger occurred in June 2023 when Labcorp Drug Development acquired a local CRO to enhance its service capabilities in the market. Eurofins Scientific has also shown interest in expanding its preclinical services across South America, capitalizing on the increasing demand for drug development services in Brazil and Argentina, as these nations support the biotech sector through favorable regulations.
In the past couple of years, the South American market has seen investment increases, with several firms reporting revenue growth attributed to rising clinical trial activities, indicative of a burgeoning biotechnology landscape. Companies like Medpace and PRA Health Sciences have also reported strategic partnerships aimed at advancing their service offerings. As research and development initiatives intensify, the preclinical CRO market in South America is poised for significant expansion, driven by local government support and an increase in healthcare investments in the region.
South America Preclinical CRO Market Segmentation Insights
- Preclinical CRO Market Service Type Outlook
- Biologics Testing
- Small Molecule Testing
- Toxicology Testing
- Pharmacology Testing
- Preclinical CRO Market Therapeutic Area Outlook
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Preclinical CRO Market Validation Type Outlook
- In Vivo Studies
- In Vitro Studies
- Comparative Studies
- Regulatory Studies
- Preclinical CRO Market End User Outlook
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Biotechnology Companies
- Academic Institutions
- Research Organizations
- Preclinical CRO Market Regional Outlook
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of South America
Report Attribute/Metric Source: |
Details |
MARKET SIZE 2023 |
622.0(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2024 |
657.0(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2035 |
1200.0(USD Million) |
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) |
5.629% (2025 - 2035) |
REPORT COVERAGE |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
BASE YEAR |
2024 |
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD |
2025 - 2035 |
HISTORICAL DATA |
2019 - 2024 |
MARKET FORECAST UNITS |
USD Million |
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED |
Safire, Syneos Health, Genoa Healthcare, KCR, Medpace, Wuxi AppTec, PharmaSeek, PharmaNet, Boehringer Ingelheim, Eurofins Scientific, Covance, PRA Health Sciences, Charles River Laboratories, ICON plc, Labcorp Drug Development |
SEGMENTS COVERED |
Service Type, Therapeutic Area, Validation Type, End User, Regional |
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES |
Growing biotechnology sector, Increased investment in R&D, Expansion of personalized medicine, Rising regulatory support, Demand for affordable drug testing |
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS |
Growing pharmaceutical industry, Increasing R&D investments, Rising demand for outsourcing, Regulatory compliance challenges, Advancements in technology |
COUNTRIES COVERED |
Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Rest of South America |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The South America Preclinical CRO Market is expected to be valued at 657.0 million USD in 2024.
By 2035, the South America Preclinical CRO Market is projected to reach 1200.0 million USD.
The anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the South America Preclinical CRO Market from 2025 to 2035 is 5.629%.
In 2024, Brazil is projected to have the largest market share, valued at 250.0 million USD.
The Toxicology Testing segment is valued at 200.0 million USD in 2024.
Key players in the market include Safire, Syneos Health, Genoa Healthcare, and Charles River Laboratories.
By 2035, the Small Molecule Testing segment is expected to reach 300.0 million USD.
Argentina's Preclinical CRO market is projected to be valued at 165.0 million USD by 2035.
The Pharmacology Testing segment will likely see growth opportunities as it is expected to increase from 117.0 million USD in 2024 to 170.0 million USD by 2035.
Challenges may arise from regulatory hurdles and the competitive landscape among key players in the South America Preclinical CRO Market.