Japan’s oncology tests market is consolidating its position as a frontrunner in advancing cancer care, underpinned by the country’s growing elderly population and the escalating burden of the disease. As these pressures mount, reliance on the next-generation diagnostic technologies, central to precision oncology, is increasing. Propelled by these factors, the Japan oncology tests market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2% between 2024 and 2034, forecasts GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

According to GlobalData’s Medical Intelligence Center, Japan accounted for nearly 48% of the Asia-Pacific (APAC) oncology tests market in 2024, highlighting its substantial share and growing influence in the region.

Shagufta Hasan, Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Cumbersome workflows, time-intensive testings, and dependence on centralized laboratories remain the key challenges for Japan’s oncology testing market. These obstacles often slow down treatment initiation and restrict patient access to targeted therapies. The adoption of faster, automated technologies is therefore vital to accelerate diagnoses and enhance the quality of patient care.”

In line with this, Thermo Fisher Scientific continues to play an active role in Japan’s cancer diagnostics and research through the development, commercialization, and support of molecular testing technologies. The company’s Oncomine Dx Express Test, powered by the Ion Torrent Genexus Dx System and currently pending approval, has the potential to strengthen the country’s oncology testing landscape.

By delivering sequencing results within 24 hours, it seeks to overcome longstanding challenges such as delays, manual procedures, and overreliance on specialized labs, promising meaningful improvements to cancer testing across Japan.

Hasan concludes: “With Japan holding close to half of the oncology tests market in Asia-Pacific, the country is well placed to extend its influence globally. This strong position not only reflects its commitment to advance precision oncology but also create new avenues for investment, partnerships, and employment, cementing Japan’s role as a leading hub for advanced cancer care worldwide.”