Forensic Imaging Market Size, Industry Share 2030

Forensic Imaging Market Size & Trends

The global forensic imaging market is anticipated to reach USD 93.2 million by 2024, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.5% from 2025 to 2030. A key driver behind this market expansion is the increasing adoption of virtopsy or virtual autopsy methods, which offer a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional autopsy procedures. As awareness regarding the benefits of virtual autopsy continues to grow, its value as an auxiliary tool in death investigation is becoming increasingly recognized. This shift towards digital autopsy has opened up new opportunities for market growth. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with forensic imaging modalities is also expected to significantly expand the market's reach. By leveraging AI-powered technologies, law enforcement agencies and medical professionals can more effectively identify deceased individuals and match severed body parts, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of forensic investigations. As a result, these emerging trends are poised to drive significant growth in the global forensic imaging market over the coming years.

Forensic imaging is a meticulous process of creating an exact replica of digital storage media, such as hard drives or flash drives, to preserve its contents for thorough examination in criminal investigations. This technique guarantees that all data, including deleted files and unallocated space, is meticulously captured without compromising the original evidence. By employing forensic imaging, investigators can maintain data integrity, analytically examine the copied information while safeguarding the original device from potential changes or damage.

The emergence of virtual autopsies has been gaining significant attention among medical professionals due to its minimally invasive nature. By leveraging advanced radiological technologies such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), healthcare providers can conduct thorough analyses of deceased individuals without the need for physical post-mortem examinations. Unlike traditional autopsies, virtual autopsies offer enhanced insights into the cause of death, providing a more accurate and sensitive diagnosis. This is particularly beneficial in situations where the risk of infection or contamination is high, making virtual autopsy a safer alternative. The increasing accessibility and affordability of imaging technology, as well as the growth of developed economies and healthcare infrastructures, are expected to drive growth in this market. Additionally, the rising number of pathological post-mortems is anticipated to further propel the adoption of virtual autopsies, paving the way for improved healthcare outcomes in the coming years.

The shift towards virtual autopsies is transforming the judiciary system, with forensic imaging modalities poised for increased adoption. One significant benefit of this shift is the reduced distress caused by traditional autopsy photographs, which can be unsettling for non-expert observers. In contrast, 3D-reconstructed images, enhanced through cutting-edge technologies, are more easily understood and accepted by judges. Additionally, digitalizing evidence ensures its secure storage and prevents tampering, further solidifying its value in court proceedings. The growing global crime rate, shortage of medical examiner personnel, and advancements in technology are driving forces behind this market expansion.

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Modality Insights

Computed tomography (CT) continues to play a significant role in the medical imaging market, accounting for 48.4% of total revenue share in 2024. One notable application of CT is in postmortem examinations, where its precision surpasses traditional autopsy methods, particularly in intricate areas such as the spine, neck, face, and pelvis of deceased individuals. This enhanced accuracy allows for more accurate lesion detection and fracture localization. Moreover, the practice of conducting a pre-autopsy CT examination to narrow down the scope of the postmortem analysis is gaining widespread acceptance due to its cost- and time-saving benefits. For instance, if a CT scan reveals that a car accident victim died from head trauma with no signs of pelvis or abdominal injuries, the autopsy can be limited to focus solely on the head region.

The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) market is anticipated to expand at a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5% throughout the forecast period. Typically, MRIs are often suggested alongside computed tomography (CT) scans as they offer superior soft tissue differentiation images of neurological tissues such as the brain and spine. However, constraints including scanning one body part at a time and the need for specific physical conditions have limited the utilization rate of MRI in forensic imaging applications.

End-use Insights

The global forensic imaging industry is being driven by leading institutes, which have established a significant market lead, accounting for 62.8% of the revenue share in 2024. Many international forensic institutes are actively investing in research initiatives that focus on integrating forensic imaging into various fields of application. As a result, the number of installations for forensic imaging systems is increasing steadily. Notable examples include the Victoria Institute of Pathology Sydney and the Institute of Forensic Medicine Denmark, which have already installed CT scanners to support their forensic imaging endeavors.

The hospital segment is projected to experience significant growth at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.0% from 2025 to 2030, driven by increasing demand for innovative healthcare solutions. Hospitals are investing heavily in creating comprehensive facilities that cater to all necessary requirements, including adequate floor space, specialized technical staff, requisite capital, and expert pathologists and radiologists. Moreover, the challenges associated with transporting corpses to forensic institutes for investigations, such as cost, risk, and time constraints, are expected to be largely mitigated by the adoption of forensic imaging tools in hospitals over the forecast period. This shift is anticipated to facilitate seamless and efficient processing of virtual autopsies within a single hospital setting.

Application Insights

The forensic investigation market experienced significant growth in 2024, with death investigations accounting for a substantial 75.6% share of revenue. This upward trend can be attributed to an increase in unnatural deaths such as suicide, murder, and accidents, resulting in a heightened need for specialized expertise. Additionally, the stringent requirements of courts necessitating precise cause-of-death determinations have led to increased adoption of virtual autopsy technologies. Moreover, rising crime rates and the growing demand for advanced imaging solutions underscore the importance of reliable forensic evidence, driving further investment in this field.

The clinical studies sector is poised for substantial growth, driven by a CAGR of 11.3% over the forecast period. This segment is largely driven by the integration of cutting-edge forensic imaging technology into various settings, including research centers, donor examinations, and academic investigations into criminal cases. Moreover, emerging breakthroughs in newly identified diseases and infections are anticipated to unlock lucrative opportunities for this sector. Additionally, government initiatives focused on bolstering forensic research capabilities are rekindling interest in clinical applications, ultimately leading to enhanced outcomes in medical investigations.

Regional Insights

Europe's dominance in the global forensic imaging market is evident, accounting for 34.2% of total revenue in 2024. The region's early adoption of cutting-edge technologies has played a significant role in driving this growth. Key countries such as the UK, Germany, and France are at the forefront of this trend, investing heavily in digital forensic capabilities and upgrading their infrastructure. Strong collaborative efforts among European nations and regulatory support also contribute to the market's expansion. Additionally, the growing need for high-quality forensic processes, coupled with government initiatives to enhance forensic science training, is a key factor driving this growth.

UK Forensic Imaging Market Trends

The UK's forensic imaging market demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in 2024, leading the European market by a considerable margin, primarily driven by a concerted effort to refine investigative techniques and enhance outcomes. The nation has long been at the vanguard of embracing advanced imaging technologies within law enforcement frameworks. Moreover, substantial investments in forensic research and development, coupled with an increasing emphasis on non-invasive methods such as virtual autopsies, have significantly bolstered the effectiveness of death investigations. Furthermore, regular training programs for forensic professionals continue to ensure that they are adequately equipped with the latest skills and knowledge in imaging technology.

Asia Pacific Forensic Imaging Market Trends

The Asia Pacific forensic imaging market is poised for significant growth over the forecast period, driven by a shift towards virtual autopsies and enhanced healthcare infrastructure. As the region continues to adopt cutting-edge technology, the demand for advanced imaging equipment is on the rise. This trend is further fuelled by government initiatives aimed at upgrading forensic infrastructure and promoting public awareness of the importance of forensic science in criminal investigations. The resulting increase in adoption of advanced imaging solutions is expected to propel market growth, with a projected CAGR of 11.6%.

In Japan, the forensic imaging market holds a leading position in the Asia Pacific region, accounting for the largest revenue share as of 2024. This dominance is largely attributed to the significant investment made by law enforcement agencies in cutting-edge technological advancements. As public safety concerns continue to escalate, there has been an increased demand for accurate and dependable forensic tools that can effectively aid investigators in their work. Additionally, collaborations between academic institutions and law enforcement agencies have played a crucial role in driving research and development efforts aimed at enhancing the capabilities of forensic imaging technologies in Japan.

North America Forensic Imaging Market Trends

The North America forensic imaging market is poised for substantial growth over the forecast period, driven by a surge in crime rates, an alarming rise in traumatic fatalities, and the expanding use of forensic imaging in virtual autopsies. The United States stands out as a leading player in this segment, thanks to its well-developed legal framework and robust healthcare infrastructure that facilitates seamless forensic investigations. Furthermore, the ongoing shift from coroner systems to medical examiner systems is fueling the demand for advanced imaging solutions capable of handling intricate cases with precision. Industry heavyweights are actively contributing to this market, driving innovation through their participation, ensuring a dynamic and evolving landscape in the years to come.

The North American forensic imaging market is poised for significant growth, driven largely by the U.S., where it holds the largest share. To meet the anticipated surge in workload at autopsy examiner centers, there will be an increasing need for additional pathologists in these facilities. This heightened demand for pathology expertise is expected to propel the adoption of advanced imaging technologies in autopsy centers. By leveraging cutting-edge imaging tools, these centers can reduce unnecessary autopsies and streamline their operations, ultimately enhancing patient care and safety.

Key Forensic Imaging Company Insights

The global forensic imaging industry is characterized by the presence of key players such as Neusoft Corporation, FUJIFILM, Hitachi, Ltd., and others. These organizations are endeavoring to strengthen their market position through diverse strategies. Among these, significant investments in research and development enable them to create cutting-edge imaging technologies. Strategic partnerships also play a vital role in expanding their customer base, while mergers and acquisitions facilitate the consolidation of their market share. Furthermore, companies are launching products tailored to specific forensic requirements and engaging customers through targeted marketing efforts.

• Neusoft Corporation provides a range of products that support forensic imaging applications. Their offerings include intelligent PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), RIS (Radiology Information System), and various imaging systems such as CT, MRI, and ultrasound. Neusoft operates in segments such as healthcare IT, medical imaging, and diagnostic solutions, focusing on integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI and big data to enhance diagnostic accuracy and workflow efficiency in forensic investigations.

• Shimadzu Corporation manufacturer of precision instruments and equipment, including advanced imaging systems utilized in forensic applications. The company produces a variety of products such as X-ray systems, CT scanners, and analytical instruments that play a crucial role in crime scene investigations and medical examinations. The company operates in segments including medical systems, industrial equipment, and analytical instruments, emphasizing innovation and quality to meet the evolving needs of forensic imaging professionals and enhance investigative outcomes.

Recent Developments

• In December 2024, Canon Medical Systems USA introduced an expanded suite of AI-powered solutions designed to automate end-to-end workflows, enhancing its CT portfolio. These solutions include remote scan support, protocol management, and automated processing for CT neuro and chest studies. The AI-driven workflow aims to improve operational efficiency across healthcare systems by streamlining clinical workflows from protocol setup to image processing, reducing manual tasks, and enabling care teams to focus more on patient care.

• In March 2024, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) launched the Full Spectrum Imaging System Crime Scene Examiner (FSIS-CSE), a portable forensic imaging tool designed for crime scene evidence capture. This compact system features a high-resolution camera mounted on a tablet, enabling faster scans and sharper image capture of latent biological, chemical, and trace evidence in confined spaces. The FSIS-CSE integrates all necessary LEDs and filters, enhancing efficiency and providing a significant advantage in field operations for law enforcement and forensic laboratories, ensuring compatibility with AFIS systems.

Forensic Imaging Market Report Scope

Global Forensic Imaging Market Report Segmentation

Our comprehensive market analysis forecasts revenue growth across various geographies, offering detailed insights into emerging trends in each sub-segment from 2018 to 2030. This study segments the global forensic imaging market by modality, end-use, application, and region, providing a nuanced understanding of industry developments and future prospects.

• Modality Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • X-ray

  • CT

  • Ultrasound

  • MRI

• End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Forensic Institutes

  • Hospitals

  • Others

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Death Investigations

  • Clinical studies

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Sweden

    • Norway

    • Denmark

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • South Korea

    • Thailand

    • Australia

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait