Japan Protective Gloves Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Product (Disposable and Durable), By Raw Material (Natural Rubber Gloves, Nitrile Gloves, Neoprene Gloves, Polyurethane, Vinyl (PVC) Gloves, and Leather Gloves), and By Application (Healthcare & Medical, Manufacturing, Construction, Food & Beverages, Oil & Gas, Mining, and Others), 2025-2032

The Japan protective gloves market size was valued at USD 1.06 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 1.10 billion in 2025 to USD 1.54 billion by 2032 at a CAGR of 5.0% during the forecast period.           

Protective gloves are used to protect hands from occupational injury, chemicals, infection, and other hazards. Hand protective equipment includes gloves, coverings or elbow-length gloves, finger guards, arm protection, and other items. Many types of gloves are available for protection against a broad range of infections, injuries, and other hazards.

In Japan, the use of protective gloves is primarily governed by the "Industrial Safety and Health Act," which mandates that employers must provide appropriate protective equipment, including gloves. The use of gloves is mandatory for workers who are exposed to the risk of injury from chemicals, sharp objects, extreme temperatures, or other hazardous substances. The Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS) set specific requirements for protective gloves, including material properties, performance levels, and testing procedures to ensure they meet necessary safety standards. SHOWA GLOVE Co., Ansell Ltd, Evonik, Towa Corporation, and 3M Japan Ltd. are key players in the market.

JAPAN PROTECTIVE GLOVES MARKET TRENDS

Technological Advancements in Glove Production to Boost the Market Growth in Japan

Innovations in glove materials have resulted in products offering enhanced durability, chemical resistance, and user comfort, catering to the evolving needs of end-users. For instance, in February 2025, Towa Corporation, a prominent Japanese glove manufacturer, launched a new product named ActivGrip Omega S series. The new series is a heavy-duty cut-resistant nitrile-coated glove with improved cut resistance and flexibility. Along with being heavy cut-resistant, it will also offer better flexibility and be capable of maintaining excellent dry grip performance in dry, wet, and oily applications.

Similarly, Towa Corporation offers another unique product, which has the new Micro Finish Technology with a superior grip. These gloves are designed to perform exceptionally well on dry, wet, and oily surfaces. The product is created by utilizing a compound filled with thousands of microscopic pockets, which enhances its grip performance. Whenever these pockets come in contact with the surface, they form a vacuum, dispersing a fluid that allows the proper grip on the entire surface of the object. A vacuum is created when these pockets come into contact with the surface of any object, dispersing a fluid that allows the entire grip surface to make clean contact with the object.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

High Risks of Injuries and Stringent Workplace Safety Regulations to Drive Market Growth in Japan

The main occupational risks in the manufacturing and construction sector are falling, dropping objects, severe or fatal injuries caused by being crushed or trapped in machinery, electric shocks, or contact with hazardous materials. Falling and dropping items is by far the most common occupational risk, followed by injuries caused by machinery. Another significant category is “injuries caused by wrong movements,” such as lumbago after lifting heavy crates. This injury often occurs in the tertiary sector (i.e., in shops, restaurants, etc.). This kind of accident can be prevented by personal safety equipment only to a limited extent.

Stringent safety protocols in manufacturing, construction, and chemical industries have bolstered the adoption of protective gloves designed to prevent injuries and exposure to hazardous materials. According to the statistics published by the Japan Industrial Safety & Health Association (JISHA), manufacturing accounted for around 25% of the total occupational accidents in 2023. Therefore, protective equipment, including protective gloves, becomes an integral part of safety measures when working in industries. Similarly, according to OSHA, about one-fourth of work injuries involve fingers and hands. OSHA also found that around 70% of the workers suffering from hand injuries do not wear safety gloves during working hours. OSHA also stated that wearing proper safety gloves is one of the most effective hand protection safety programs, reducing hand injury risk by 27%.

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MARKET RESTRAINTS

Rising Risks from Disposable Gloves May Hamper their Demand in the Future

The negative impacts of disposable gloves primarily lie in their environmental pollution due to widespread use and improper disposal, leading to plastic waste accumulation in landfills and waterways. Potential issues include the breakdown of gloves into tiny plastic particles (microplastics) that can pollute soil and water and enter the food chain when discarded improperly. Large volumes of disposable gloves contribute significantly to landfill waste, especially with increased usage during events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Discarded gloves can end up in waterways, harming marine life through ingestion or entanglement.

In addition, disposable gloves can release chemicals like phthalates, zinc, and other heavy metals. The type of glove and the chemicals used to make it can affect what chemicals are released. Chemicals released from gloves can contaminate food and pose a risk to human health. Also, metals like Lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and chromium (Cr) released from gloves are highly toxic, even at small doses.

Therefore, the hostile human and environmental impacts due to the rising risks from disposable gloves may hamper their demand in the future.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Rising Demand in Healthcare and Growing Elderly Care Industry to Create Lucrative Opportunities in the Market

Japan has a rapidly growing elderly care industry due to its rapidly aging population, with one of the highest proportions of elderly citizens globally. This is leading to a significant demand for specialized care services like home healthcare, assisted living facilities, and long-term nursing care, driving market expansion and substantial investment in senior housing and care facilities.

Japan has the largest aged population in the world, with a large portion of the population aged 65 and above, creating a massive need for elderly care services. Japan ranks among the fastest-aging nations globally, with over 10% of its inhabitants being 80 years old or older and nearly 30% being over 65, which is higher than any other nation. This situation creates an increasing demand for elderly care services and products, including gloves.

The Japanese government is also actively promoting investment in senior housing and care through policies and subsidies, further boosting the industry. The market encompasses a range of services, including home care, adult day care, institutional care, and specialized care for conditions like dementia. The healthcare sector's emphasis on hygiene and infection control has led to heightened demand for disposable gloves, particularly nitrile and latex variants. Older people are more susceptible to infections and require frequent medical procedures, which will lead to caregiver’s higher usage of disposable gloves during patient interaction and care routines. Such flow of usage will create massive additional demand for protective gloves, creating lucrative opportunities in the market.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Skin Allergies and Risks of Occupational Diseases May Hinder the Market Growth

Protective gloves, while designed to protect hands, can also have harmful effects, including skin irritation and allergies to glove materials. It can also cause reduced dexterity, increased risk of hand accidents due to improper fit, the potential for chemical permeation through the glove material, and aggravation of pre-existing skin conditions if not chosen and used correctly. Latex gloves are a common trigger for allergic reactions, causing skin irritation, hives, and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. Wearing gloves for extended periods can trap moisture and heat, leading to skin irritation and maceration, especially with poor glove fit or materials.

According to the Japan Latex Allergy Society, Dermatological conditions related to work account for 25-30 percent of all occupational diseases. Research conducted by the Japan Labor Health and Welfare Organization indicates that while the incidence of contact dermatitis is below 80 percent, it remains the most common type of occupational illness. Cases affecting the hands represent as much as 67.4 percent of these occurrences. Nurses' Allergic reactions are attributed to using rubber gloves, masks, and frequent hand washing. In Japan, occupational skin diseases from gloves are often caused by allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from rubber accelerators used in surgical gloves.

Fear of such harmful effects may limit its usage in a few application areas, forcing users to look for alternatives and manufacturers to innovate their products. This may interrupt the short-term demand-supply equation, hampering overall Japan protective gloves market growth.

TRADE PROTECTIONISM

Japan maintains high standards for imported protective gloves, ensuring compliance with safety and quality regulations. While there are no significant trade barriers, all products must meet the country's stringent requirements to enter the market.  Manufacturers and importers of rubber gloves or protective equipment for medical personnel must obtain a license for the Japanese market.

IMPACT OF COVID-19

In the initial phases, Japan faced a shortage of protective gloves due to trade issues. One main reason for the shortage was that Japan, like many other countries, relies on imports to some extent. On the other hand, Malaysia is responsible for the production of two-thirds of the global supply of rubber gloves. According to Supramaniam Shanmugam, the leader of the Malaysian Rubber Glove Manufacturers Association, the demand on a global scale significantly surpassed the available supply. However, the pandemic not only brought various challenges but also created various opportunities for market players. The pandemic brought about a substantial change in the Japanese market for protective gloves, leading to an extraordinary increase in demand within both the healthcare and non-healthcare sectors. To meet the increasing demand, companies ramped up their production capacities, generating high sales revenue for them. As the market began to recover following the acute phase of the pandemic, it experienced strategic adjustments. The patterns of recovery differ across regions and sectors. The healthcare sector continues to experience high consumption rates, while industrial sectors show consistent growth that corresponds with economic recovery. Manufacturers were concentrating on building resilient supply chains, implementing stockpiling strategies, and diversifying their production locations to avert future disruptions.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Product

Disposable Segment Dominated the Market Due to Rising Industrial Safety Standards

The market is classified by product into disposable and durable.

The disposable segment held the highest Japan protective gloves market size in 2024 and is estimated to record a significant growth rate during the forecast period. Disposable gloves are gloves that are used for one time and then thrown away. They help avoid the transmission of germs and pathogens and the spread of the infection. They are used mainly by the medical staff and people in contact with the patient. As industrial safety standards tighten in the country, the demand for these gloves has surged.

The durable gloves segment can be reused with or without sterilizing, depending on the application area. They are generally used by workers in the construction, chemical, and general manufacturing sectors. The expansion of the food processing industry in Japan is a key driver for general-purpose gloves, especially in developed markets with strict hygiene standards.

By Raw Material

Natural Rubber Gloves Segment Dominated Owing to its Biodegradability

Based on raw material, the market is segmented into natural rubber gloves, nitrile gloves, neoprene gloves, polyurethane, vinyl (PVC) gloves, and leather gloves.

The natural rubber gloves segment accounted for the largest Japan protective gloves market share in 2024. These gloves are widely used in the medical, industrial, and food sectors. It is biodegradable, unlike synthetic alternatives, aligning with Japan’s eco-friendly policies. Growing awareness of plastic waste reduction has encouraged some sectors to continue using latex gloves.

The nitrile gloves segment is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period. Due to their chemical resistance, durability, and hypoallergenic properties, nitrile gloves have become the global standard in the medical and industrial sectors. They are highly favored in medical, healthcare, laboratory, and manufacturing applications. Rising concerns over latex allergies and government regulations promoting safer PPE in healthcare and chemical handling in Japan are driving the market.

The polyurethane segment is likely to grow notably during the forecast period. Due to their superior tactile sensitivity and dexterity, polyurethane gloves are increasingly used in high-precision sectors such as electronics, medical device manufacturing, and automotive industries. Japan is a global leader in electronics, semiconductor, and precision manufacturing. These gloves offer excellent dexterity and anti-static properties, which make them ideal for handling delicate components.

By Application

Healthcare & Medical Accounted for the Most Prominent Share Owing to Rising Elderly Care Services

Based on application, the market is segmented into healthcare & medical, manufacturing, construction, food & beverages, oil & gas, mining, and others.

The healthcare & medical segment accounted for the largest Japan market share in 2024. The healthcare & medical sector is one of the largest consumers of protective gloves, particularly sterile gloves. Japan has one of the oldest populations, leading to more medical procedures and elderly care services, increasing glove demand.

The manufacturing segment is set to witness significant revenue growth during the forecast period. This sector is a major consumer of mechanical and chemical handling gloves. Workers in industries such as automotive, electronics, and textiles require durable gloves to protect against cuts, abrasions, chemicals, and other hazards commonly encountered in production environments. The manufacturing sector remains a major driver of growth for protective gloves in the country. Japan's technological advancements and the need for precise, high-quality gloves in electronics manufacturing also contribute to the market growth.

Food and beverages are expected to register significant growth. The food processing and service industries are major drivers of demand for general-purpose and disposable gloves. Stringent food safety regulations and an increasing focus on hygiene drive glove demand in the Japanese food industry. Moreover, increased demand for pre-packaged food, bento meals, and delivery services has boosted glove use in food handling.

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COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Players are Launching New Products to maintain their Market Positions

SHOWA GLOVE Co., Ansell Ltd, Evonik, Towa Corporation, and 3M Japan Ltd. are some of the most prominent players in the market. Companies are investing significantly in developing new products that address evolving demands for sustainability and performance. With the shift towards sustainable materials and growing market trends of biodegradable gloves, the market is likely to create a new revenue streams.

LIST OF KEY JAPAN PROTECTIVE GLOVES COMPANIES PROFILED

• SHOWA GLOVE Co. (Japan)


• Towa Corporation (Japan)


• Fuji Glove Co. Ltd (Japan)


• SHIGEMATSU WORKS CO. LTD. (Japan)


• DIA RUBBER CO. LTD (Japan)


• Shandong Max Glove Co., Ltd. (China)


• Nipro Corporation (Japan)


• Mapa Professional Company (France)


• Midori Anzen Co., Ltd. (Japan)


• Zhonghong Pulin Group Co., Ltd. (China)


• HANVO Safety (China)


• 3M Japan Ltd. (Japan)


• Fukutoku Corporation (Japan)


• ATOM Corporation (Japan)


• Otafuku Gloves Co., Ltd. (Japan)


• Ansell Ltd. (Australia)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• In February 2025, Towa Corporation launched its new product, the ActivGrip Omega-S series. This is an upgraded version of the ActivGrip Omega series to the next level. The product is heavy-duty cut-resistant nitrile-coated gloves with improved cut resistance and flexibility.


• In December 2024, Mapa Professional launched the Solo 980, a new thick disposable nitrile glove designed for extra protection and performance. It offers flexibility, chemical resistance, and enhanced grip and is suitable for various industries.


• In May 2024, Mapa Professional introduced the eco-designed KryTech 615 gloves. Made with 25% recycled fibers, they feature superior cut protection, breathability, and washability. The packaging is also optimized with 30% recycled plastic to minimize waste.


• In April 2024, Mapa Professional launched SAFE CHEM, a free tool to help professionals select the right gloves for specific chemical protection needs.


• In April 2024, Ansell Ltd. acquired Kimberly-Clark’s Personal Protective Equipment business (KCPPE) from Kimberly-Clark Corporation for USD 640 million in cash. This acquisition helped the company enhance its market presence in the personal protective equipment market.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market. It focuses on key aspects, such as leading companies, Products, and product applications. Besides this, it offers insights into the market and current industry trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the factors mentioned above, the report encompasses several factors contributing to the market's growth.

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Report Scope & Segmentation