China Artificial Tear Market Reaches $335.6 Million in 2025 with 5.8% CAGR

Published: Jan 2026

China artificial tear market was valued at $335.6 million in 2025 and is projected to reach $588.1 million by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period (2026–2035). Artificial tears are widely used to relieve symptoms of dry eye disease (DED), ocular surface disorders, and digital eye strain, and include formulations such as preservative-free drops, hyaluronic acid-based lubricants, lipid-enhanced emulsions, and gel or ointment variants. Market growth is being driven by the rising prevalence of dry eye associated with aging, increasing screen time and urban digital lifestyles, expanding awareness of ocular health, and improved access to over-the-counter ophthalmic products across hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and e-commerce platforms.

Browse the full report description of “China Artificial Tear Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Type (Cellulose-Derived Tears, Glycerin-Derived Tears, Oil-Based Emulsion Tears, and Polyethylene Glycol- & Propylene Glycol-Based Tears), By Delivery Method (Eyedrops and Ointments/Gel), By Application (Dry Type Treatment, Contact Lens Moisture, and Digital Eye Strain) and By End-User (Retail Pharmacies (OTC), Online Pharmacies, Hospitals & Ophthalmic Clinics, and Other End User) Forecast Period, (2026-2035)” at https://www.omrglobal.com/industry-reports/china-artificial-tears-market

The market is experiencing steady expansion across China, supported by rapid urbanization, a growing elderly population, and increased diagnosis and management of chronic eye conditions. Key trends shaping the artificial tear landscape include the growing preference for preservative-free and multi-dose sterile packaging, increased adoption of hyaluronic acid and lipid-based formulations for moderate to severe DED, and product positioning for high-frequency, long-term use. In addition, domestic manufacturing scale-up, expanding ophthalmology services, and supportive healthcare policies aimed at improving access to essential eye care products are collectively fueling sustained market growth.

According to PMC and national epidemiological studies from China, the prevalence of dry eye disease (DED) the key driver of artificial tear usage is substantial and rising, with hospitals, clinics, and individuals increasingly relying on lubricating eye drops and tear supplements to manage symptoms and maintain ocular health.

Key Innovators Driving China Artificial Tear Transformation

The key players in the China artificial tear market include Alcon Inc., Bausch Health Companies, Inc., Johnson & Johnson Vision, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., among others. These companies are actively advancing preservative-free technologies, lipid-layer stabilizing formulations, and next-generation ocular drug delivery platforms, shaping the future of dry eye management in China.

  • In October 2025, Santen Pharmaceutical introduced a new hyaluronic acid–based, preservative-free artificial tear in China, specifically designed for high-frequency use among digital device users. The launch targets the rising incidence of digital eye strain in major urban centers.
  • In September 2025, Alcon expanded its China portfolio with a premium lipid-enhanced emulsion eye drop aimed at treating severe evaporative dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction, conditions that are increasingly common in urban populations.
  • In July 2025, Shandong Qidu Pharma entered a strategic partnership with a leading Chinese digital health platform to develop AI-driven dry eye assessment tools integrated with personalized artificial tear recommendations, highlighting China’s growing adoption of smart, technology-enabled eye-care solutions.

Market Coverage

  • The market number available for – 2025-2035
  • Base year- 2025
  • Forecast period- 2026-2035
  • Segment Covered-
    • By Type
    • Delivery Method
    • By Application
    • By End-User
  • Competitive Landscape - Alcon Inc., Bausch Health Companies, Inc., Johnson & Johnson Vision, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., among others.

Key questions addressed by the report.

  • What is the market growth rate?
  • Which segment and region dominate the market in the base year?
  • Which segment and region will project the fastest growth in the market?
  • Who is the leader in the market?
  • How are players addressing challenges to sustain growth?
  • Where is the investment opportunity?

China Artificial Tear Market Report Segment

By Type

  • Cellulose-Derived Tears
  • Glycerin-Derived Tears
  • Oil-Based Emulsion Tears
  • Polyethylene Glycol- & Propylene Glycol-Based Tears

By Delivery Method

  • Eyedrops
  • Ointments/Gel

By Application

  • Dry Type Treatment
  • Contact Lens Moisture
  • Digital Eye Strain

By End-User

  • Retail Pharmacies (OTC)
  • Online Pharmacies
  • Hospitals & Ophthalmic Clinics
  • Other End User

 

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