EPO–ECLAC Study Highlights the Economic Role of IP in Latin America and the Caribbean

A new joint study by the European Patent Office (EPO) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) examines how intellectual property rights (IPR) contribute to economic growth, productivity, and innovation across the region. The report also highlights persistent gaps in innovation performance and the need to strengthen technology transfer, regional cooperation, and policy frameworks.

According to the study, IPR-intensive manufacturing sectors, including automotive, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, account for 13.6% of GDP and support around 1.6 million jobs in Latin America and the Caribbean. These industries also show significantly higher productivity and wages, particularly in patent-intensive sectors, where wage levels are more than 50% higher on average.

At the same time, the report points to a strong dependence on imported technology. While IP-intensive industries play an important economic role, they account for a much larger share of imports than exports, and more than 85% of patent applications filed in the region come from foreign applicants. This reflects a broader imbalance between local innovation capacity and ownership of resulting technologies.

Despite these challenges, the study identifies significant untapped potential within the region. Universities, research institutions, and national laboratories account for nearly one-third of domestic patent filings, demonstrating strong scientific and technological capabilities. The report stresses that stronger university–industry collaboration, improved commercialisation skills, and supportive public policies are essential to convert innovation into sustainable economic value.