Sanger Sequencing Market: Precision, Reliability, and the Enduring Role of First-Generation Genomics

Data Bridge Market Research analyses that the Sanger Sequencing market which was USD 2.275.20 million in 2022, is likely to reach to USD 8,846.40 million by 2030, and is expected to undergo a CAGR of 18.50% during the forecast period.

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Jun 21, 2025 - 22:16

Sanger Sequencing Market: Precision, Reliability, and the Enduring Role of First-Generation Genomics

Introduction

Despite the rise of next-generation sequencing (NGS), Sanger sequencing remains a cornerstone of molecular biology. Known for its accuracy and reliability, it continues to play a vital role in diagnostics, mutation validation, and targeted gene analysis. As genomic medicine expands, the Sanger sequencing market is experiencing renewed relevance across clinical, academic, and industrial domains.

The Evolution

Developed by Frederick Sanger in 1977, the chain-termination method revolutionized DNA sequencing. Over the decades, it evolved from manual gel-based systems to automated capillary electrophoresis platforms. While NGS offers high-throughput capabilities, Sanger sequencing remains the gold standard for confirming variants and sequencing small genomic regions with unmatched precision.

Market Trends

Diagnostic Dominance: Sanger sequencing is widely used in clinical diagnostics, particularly for confirming mutations in hereditary diseases and oncology.
Hybrid Sequencing Models: Labs are increasingly combining Sanger with NGS to balance cost, accuracy, and throughput.
Automation and Miniaturization: Advances in microfluidics and capillary electrophoresis are improving efficiency and reducing reagent consumption.
Global Genomics Initiatives: Government-funded programs in the U.S., EU, China, and India are fueling demand for sequencing validation tools.
Outsourced Services Growth: CROs and genomic service providers are expanding Sanger sequencing offerings to meet demand from biotech and academic clients.

Challenges

Competition from NGS: High-throughput, lower-cost NGS platforms are displacing Sanger in large-scale applications.
Limited Throughput: Sanger is not ideal for whole-genome or exome sequencing due to its lower scalability.
Skilled Workforce Shortage: Operating and interpreting Sanger data requires specialized training, which is in short supply.
Cost per Base: While accurate, Sanger sequencing remains more expensive per base compared to NGS for large datasets.
Regulatory Complexity: Clinical applications require rigorous validation and compliance with evolving regulatory standards.

Market Scope

The market spans diagnostics, academic research, forensics, and pharmaceutical development. Key end-users include hospitals, government research institutes, biotech firms, and sequencing service providers. Applications range from mutation confirmation and gene editing validation to microbial identification and prenatal screening.

Market Size

The global Sanger sequencing market was valued at approximately USD 3.73 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 12.17 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 18.4%. North America leads in adoption due to strong research infrastructure and clinical integration, while Asia-Pacific is emerging rapidly, driven by healthcare investments and genomic research initiatives.

Factors Driving Growth

Declining Sequencing Costs: Technological improvements have made Sanger sequencing more affordable and accessible.
Clinical Validation Needs: Its high accuracy makes it indispensable for confirming NGS results in diagnostics.
Government Funding: National genomics programs are investing in sequencing infrastructure and services.
Emerging Markets: Countries like India, China, and Brazil are expanding genomic capabilities, boosting demand.
Precision Medicine Expansion: Personalized treatment strategies rely on accurate genetic profiling, where Sanger plays a key role.