World Intellectual Property Indicators 2024: Record on Global Patent Filings

World Intellectual Property Indicators (WIPI) is the annual survey of intellectual property (IP) activity around the world carried out by World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This comprehensive survey provides an analysis of global IP trends, using 2023 statistics on filings, registrations, and renewals from national and regional IP offices, along with data from WIPO. The report covers a range of IP categories, including patents, utility models, trademarks, industrial designs, microorganisms, plant variety protection, and geographical indications.

According to the WIPI, in 2023, global patenting activity hit a record high, with applications exceeding 3.5 million for the first time. This marks the fourth consecutive year of growth, even amid challenging macroeconomic conditions.

China (1.64 million), the US (518,364), Japan (414,413), South Korea (287,954), and Germany (133,053) led in global patent filings. India, with 64,480 applications, moved up to sixth place, experiencing a notable 15.7% increase primarily due to a surge in resident filings, bolstered by its rapidly expanding economy.