According to a new report from Intel Market Research, the global Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) market was valued at USD 18.5 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 17.96 billion by 2032, declining at a negative CAGR of -0.4% during the forecast period (2025–2032). This market contraction reflects shifting global defense budgets, increased regulatory pressures, and a gradual transition toward non-lethal alternatives in certain security applications.

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What are Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW)?

Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) refer to portable firearms and light weapon systems designed for individual or small-crew use. While there is no universally accepted definition, the 1997 UN Panel of Governmental Experts provides a widely adopted framework that emphasizes portability as the defining characteristic. This category includes both military-grade and civilian firearms that can be carried by an individual, a small team, or transported by pack animals or light vehicles.

The industry encompasses two primary segments: Small Arms (including pistols, rifles, shotguns, and submachine guns) and Light Weapons (such as heavy machine guns, mortars, portable anti-aircraft guns, and rocket-propelled grenade launchers). These weapons represent critical assets for military forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilian markets worldwide.

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Key Market Dynamics

1. Geopolitical Tensions and Defense Modernization

Ongoing regional conflicts and heightened global security concerns continue to drive demand for advanced small arms and light weapons. Nations are investing in modernization programs to replace aging inventory with more accurate, reliable, and technologically advanced systems. The recent focus on urban warfare and counter-insurgency operations has particularly increased demand for precision firearms and specialized light weapons.

2. Civilian Market Dynamics

The civilian segment remains the largest end-user market, accounting for approximately 60% of global market share. This dominance is driven by factors including personal protection, sporting activities, and recreational shooting. However, this segment faces increasing regulatory scrutiny and public debate regarding firearm ownership across various regions, creating a complex regulatory environment for manufacturers and distributors.

3. Technological Advancements

Manufacturers are investing significantly in research and development to enhance weapon performance, reliability, and user safety. Recent innovations include integrated smart technologies, advanced materials for weight reduction, improved ergonomics, and enhanced sighting systems. These developments are particularly relevant for military and law enforcement applications where operational effectiveness is paramount.

Market Challenges

• Stringent regulatory frameworks: Increasing international and national regulations governing arms transfers, particularly under frameworks like the Arms Trade Treaty, are creating compliance challenges for manufacturers
• Ethical considerations and public scrutiny: Growing public awareness and debate about firearm violence are influencing market dynamics and corporate policies
• Supply chain disruptions: The industry faces challenges related to raw material availability, production delays, and logistics complexities
• Market saturation in developed regions: Mature markets are experiencing slower growth due to market saturation and increasing regulatory restrictions

Regional Market Insights

• North America: Dominates the global market with approximately 60% share, driven by strong civilian demand, substantial defense budgets, and established manufacturing capabilities. The region benefits from a robust regulatory framework that supports both domestic sales and international exports.
• Europe: Represents a significant market with advanced manufacturing capabilities and strong defense partnerships. European manufacturers are particularly active in developing next-generation infantry weapons and compliance with EU arms export controls.
• Asia-Pacific: Emerging as a growth region due to increasing defense expenditures, particularly in countries modernizing their military capabilities. Local manufacturing is expanding through technology transfer agreements and joint ventures.
• Middle East & Africa: Characterized by ongoing security requirements and regional conflicts driving demand. However, market growth is tempered by economic challenges and complex regulatory environments.
• Latin America: Shows potential for growth due to security challenges and military modernization programs, though economic volatility remains a constraining factor.

Market Segmentation

By Type

• Small Arms
• Light Weapons

By Application

• Military
• Law Enforcement
• Civilian

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

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Competitive Landscape

The global SALW market features a fragmented competitive landscape with several established players and numerous specialized manufacturers. The top five manufacturers collectively hold approximately 15% market share, indicating a diverse competitive environment with significant participation from regional and specialized manufacturers.

Key market participants include:

• General Dynamics Corporation
• Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.
• NORINCO GROUP
• Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc.
• Glock Ges.m.b.H.
• FN Herstal S.A.
• Ordnance Factory Board (OFB)
• Beretta S.p.A.
• Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC
• Taurus Armas S.A.
• IMBEL - Indústria de Material Bélico do Brasil
• Česká zbrojovka (CZUB)
• Heckler & Koch GmbH
• Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd.
• Olin Corporation
• O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc.
• SSS Defence

These companies compete on factors including product quality, technological innovation, pricing, after-sales support, and compliance with international standards and regulations.

Recent Industry Developments

The SALW industry is witnessing several important trends, including increased focus on modular weapon systems that allow for configuration changes based on mission requirements. There is growing emphasis on weight reduction through advanced materials and improved manufacturing techniques. Additionally, manufacturers are investing in enhanced safety features and training systems to address safety concerns and improve user proficiency.

International collaborations and joint ventures are becoming increasingly common as companies seek to expand their global footprint and access new markets. However, these efforts must navigate complex international regulations and export controls governing arms transfers.

Report Deliverables

• Comprehensive market analysis and forecasts from 2025 to 2032
• Detailed competitive landscape assessment with market share analysis
• In-depth regional analysis covering key countries and markets
• Analysis of regulatory frameworks and their impact on market dynamics
• Technology trends and innovation landscape
• Supply chain analysis and manufacturing insights
• Strategic recommendations for market participants

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About Intel Market Research

Intel Market Research is a leading provider of strategic intelligence, offering actionable insights in defense technology, security solutions, and industrial manufacturing. Our research capabilities include:

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• Global market trend analysis
• Country-specific regulatory and compliance analysis
• Over 500+ specialized industry reports annually

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