Global Contraband Detector Market 2024-2031

Global Contraband Detector Market 2024-2031

Global Contraband Detector Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Type (Fixed Portable/Handheld), by End-User (Airport, Public Transportation, Law Enforcement, and Retail & Commercial) Forecast Period (2024-2031)

Global contraband detector market is anticipated to grow at an exponential CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period (2024-2031). Government-enacted laws & regulations aimed at reducing drug & associated material trafficking is a major factor driving the global market.

Market Dynamics

Technological Transformation in Security Systems

The rapid technological transformation in security systems is a key factor driving the demand for contraband detectors globally.Contraband detectors with X-ray imaging systems are being rapidly utilized at transportation facilities owing to their capability of scanning passengers, and spot hidden devices or weapons effectively. According to the International Air Transport Association, total air traffic in 2023 rose 36.9% compared to 2022. Globally, full-year 2023 traffic was at 94.1% of pre-pandemic (2019) levels. December 2023 total traffic rose 25.3% compared to December 2022 and reached 97.5% of the December 2019 level. Fourth quarter traffic was at 98.2% of 2019, reflecting the strong recovery towards the end of the year. The increasing air traffic has created the demand for contraband detectors across airports to ensure passenger safety.

Growing Security Concern

The growing security concerns across the globe due to increasing terrorist attacks and rapid urbanization a key factors driving the demand for contraband detectors.These increasing attacks globally have forced country governments to invest in advanced contraband detectors. According to the Our World in Data, in 2019 around 20,000 people fatalities occurred from terrorism.

Market Segmentation

Our in-depth analysis of the global contraband detector market includes the following segments by technology, application, and end-user:

Based on type, the market is sub-segmented into fixed and portable/handheld.

Based on end-users, the market is sub-segmented into airport, public transportation, law enforcement, and retail & commercial.

Fixed Contraband Detector Sub-Segment Held Major Market Share

The fixed contraband detector is highly efficient and has a large range of detection. The large-scale adoption of these detectors across government offices is a key contributor to the high share of this market segment. New product launches are further aiding the growth of this market segment. The high cost of fixed contraband detectors is a key factor restraining its market growth.

Regional Outlook

The global contraband detector market is further segmented based on geography including North America (the US, and Canada), Europe (UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, France, and the Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (India, China, Japan, South Korea, and Rest of Asia), and the Rest of the World (the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America).

Increasing Penetration of Key Players in Asia-Pacific

Smiths Detection has secured several contracts in China, including the sale of 151 Ionscan 600, which is expected to be deployed across the Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Qingdao Liuting International Airport, as well as Kunming Changshui, and Cangyuan airports managed by Yunnan Airport Group.

North America Holds Major Market Share

Among all the regions, North America holds a significant share due to the high adoption of contraband detection systems among government organizations to ensure safety & security. The growing focus of the US government on tightening the security to minimize illegal trafficking of artificial drugs such as methamphetamine is expected to further increase the deployment of these technologies.

Market Players Outlook



The major companies serving the global contraband detector market include American Science and Engineering Inc., OSI Systems, Inc., Garrett Metal Detector, Smiths Group plc, and Godrej Security Solutions among others. The market players are increasingly focusing on business expansion and product development by applying strategies such as collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions to stay competitive in the market. For instance, in January 2023, RaySecur announced enhancements for inmate mail security to detect drugs and contraband smuggled into corrections facilities via postal mail - without opening it. New MailSecur features include improved visualization of drug-laced paper, mobile operation via an optional long-life battery pack, and video documentation of the screening process.

The Report Covers

Market value data analysis of 2023 and forecast to 2031.

Annualized market revenues ($ million) for each market segment.

Country-wise analysis of major geographical regions.

Key companies operating in the global contraband detector market. Based on the availability of data, information related to new product launches, and relevant news is also available in the report.

Analysis of business strategies by identifying the key market segments positioned for strong growth in the future.

Analysis of market-entry and market expansion strategies.

Competitive strategies by identifying ‘who-stands-where’ in the market.