FORENSIC SWAB MARKET SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2024-2031)

Market Size and Trends

Global forensic swab market is estimated to be valued at USD 4.71 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 6.92 Bn by 2031, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2024 to 2031.

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Rising demand for accurate and reliable DNA testing and analysis from law enforcement agencies for carrying out criminal investigations and rising number of crimes worldwide can drive the forensic swab market growth. Factors such as rising awareness about the benefits offered by forensic swabs for crime scene investigation and development of advanced technologies for DNA profiling are expected to boost adoption of forensic swabs. Furthermore, increasing investments by key market players to develop innovative products and launch of new digital forensic tools can offer new market growth opportunities over the forecast period. However, lack of regulations for DNA data management and standardization in some countries can hamper the market growth.

Technology Enhancement and Modernization of Forensic Labs

New and efficient techniques are being adopted to gather sharper evidence using advanced scientific tools and procedures. Though forensic laboratories have always incorporated analytical instruments and technologies, several existing legacy systems have become outdated and unable to keep pace with current requirements. With newer DNA and biometric analysis methods requiring high computing power and throughput rates, forensic labs across regions have recognized the need to modernize their infrastructure and integrate innovative solutions. This has boosted significant investment towards facility upgradation, equipment procurement and staff training on contemporary platforms. Several advanced countries have allotted large budgets to digitize workflows and transition forensic practices to a more scientific and technology-driven model. New fingerprint and DNA scanning devices provide enhanced accuracy even from limited or degraded samples. Advanced microscopy allows extraction of minuscule traces and 3D microscopy helps visualize deep tissue layers non-invasively. Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms aid automated handling of large databases for pattern matching and case correlations. For instance, in June 2023, in Gwadar, the significance of forensic science in modern-day crime investigations was underscored, as it not only aids victims but also has the potential to rectify wrongful convictions. Under the EU-funded 'Deliver Justice' Project, UNODC, United nations Office on Drugs & Crime, collaborated with Balochistan's Criminal Justice Institutions to enhance their capacity in forensic investigation. The focus was on training frontline police officers in evidence collection and preservation at crime scenes. Despite challenges, the three-day training aimed to equip officers with practical skills, emphasizing the importance of forensic science in strengthening investigations. The participants expressed appreciation for the training's relevance and advocated for continued exposure to such sessions to enhance forensic analysis and ensure fair trials.

Extension of Forensic Practices to Non-Traditional Application Areas

Traditionally, forensic science has been extensively relied upon by law enforcement agencies and legal courts to resolve crimes and assist criminal investigation activities. However, its utility and scope of services has diversified beyond the criminal justice sector. Several new application domains have opened up recognizing the value forensic methodologies offer in gathering objective clues and resolving complex issues even in non-lawful cases. Insurance and financial firms investigating insurance fraud or related disputes are now regularly employing forensic experts to examine documentary, electronic or biological evidence. Various factual inquiries in civil matters concerning disputed inheritance, copyright infringements or contractual violations also involve forensic analysis for ascertaining verifiable facts. Even government departments tasked with national security, conducting inquests and dealing with unidentified bodies approach forensic science for convenient solutions.