Asia Pacific Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Systems Market Outlook (2021-2031)

The Asia Pacific magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems market is poised for significant growth, with projections indicating that it will reach approximately US$ 4,365.06 million by 2031, up from US$ 2,555.33 million in 2024. This growth trajectory reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% from 2025 to 2031.

Executive Summary and Market Analysis

The MRI systems market in the Asia Pacific region is a vital and rapidly evolving segment of the global healthcare landscape, characterized by a vast and diverse patient demographic alongside swift economic advancements. Key markets such as China, Japan, India, and Australia are propelling this growth through a combination of sophisticated healthcare infrastructure and a strong emphasis on medical technology. There is a rising demand for high-field MRI systems, which are essential for advanced diagnostics in specialized medical facilities, as well as for more cost-effective low-field and refurbished units that cater to emerging economies and rural healthcare settings.

A notable trend driving the market is the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and an aging population, which heightens the need for high-quality, non-invasive diagnostic tools. This demand is further bolstered by government initiatives aimed at enhancing public health and a growing awareness among patients regarding the importance of early diagnosis. However, the market does face several challenges, including the high initial costs associated with MRI equipment, the necessity for a larger skilled workforce to operate and interpret MRI scans, and the varying regulatory standards across different countries in the region. Despite these challenges, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into MRI technology is improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, presenting significant opportunities for market expansion and enhanced healthcare outcomes.

Market Segmentation Analysis

The analysis of the Asia Pacific MRI systems market reveals several key segments that contribute to its overall dynamics, including type, field strength, mobility, application, and end user.

By Type: The market is divided into closed MRI systems and open MRI systems, with closed MRI systems dominating the market in 2024.
By Field Strength: MRI systems are categorized into low-field, mid-field, and high & ultra-high field systems, with mid-field MRI systems leading the market in 2024.
By Mobility: The market is segmented into fixed and portable systems, where fixed systems held the largest share in 2024.
By Application: The applications of MRI systems include neurology, oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, gynecology, and others, with the neurology segment being the most significant in 2024.
By End User: The end users of MRI systems include hospitals, specialty clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, academic and research institutes, among others, with hospitals accounting for the largest market share in 2024.

Market Outlook

The Asia Pacific region is recognized as one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing markets for MRI systems, driven by rapid economic growth, increased healthcare investments, and a rising incidence of chronic, neurological, and cancer-related diseases. Countries like China, Japan, and India are leading this growth, supported by expanding hospital networks and government initiatives aimed at improving access to advanced diagnostic imaging technologies.

Japan has been at the forefront of adopting high-field MRI systems, while China and India are experiencing a surge in installations as part of their healthcare modernization efforts. A significant advancement in the region is the adoption of MRI-guided radiation therapy, particularly in oncology, which allows for precise targeting of tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. For example, in September 2022, ViewRay, Inc. announced that its MRIdian MRI-Guided Radiation Therapy System received approval from the Chinese National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), enabling its use throughout China and providing cancer patients with a new treatment option.

Furthermore, collaborations between international imaging companies and local healthcare providers are enhancing MRI access across urban and semi-urban areas. While high system costs and limited availability in rural regions remain challenges, increasing patient awareness, supportive government policies, and ongoing technological advancements are expected to sustain robust market growth in the coming years.

Country Insights

The Asia Pacific MRI systems market is segmented by country, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Bangladesh, and the Rest of Asia. China is the largest market in 2024, driven by extensive government initiatives, local manufacturing capabilities, and rapid deployment of MRI systems in urban and secondary care hospitals.

Japan continues to lead in high-field and specialty MRI systems, supported by favorable reimbursement policies and strong research and development efforts. India is witnessing a surge in demand through private diagnostic chains and medical tourism, which are expanding access to mid-field MRI systems in smaller cities. South Korea is recognized for its innovative market, characterized by early adoption of advanced technologies such as 3T scanners and AI integration. Australia focuses on premium imaging services within a structured healthcare framework, ensuring high-quality diagnostic care. Meanwhile, Singapore and Malaysia are emerging as regional hubs for medical tourism and training, while countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam are benefiting from healthcare reforms and foreign investments, laying the groundwork for future market growth.

Company Profiles

Key players in the Asia Pacific MRI systems market include GE HealthCare, Siemens Healthineers AG, FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Canon Inc., Koninklijke Philips N.V., HYPERFINE, INC., Esaote SPA, Shanghai United Imaging Healthcare Co., LTD, FONAR Corp., and Neusoft Medical Systems. These companies are employing strategies such as market expansion, product innovation, and mergers and acquisitions to maintain competitiveness and deliver innovative solutions to their customers. Show more