As we approach World Intellectual Property Day on April 26, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has released data showing a global uptick in the use of its intellectual property (IP) registries in 2024. This marks the first time since 2021 that all three major registries—the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), the Madrid System, and the Hague System—have seen year-over-year growth. Highlights from the March 17 WIPO press release include:
Global Trends in IP Filing
- Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT): Up 0.5%, signaling steady activity in international patent filings.
- Madrid System (International Registration of Trademarks): Up 1.2%, after two consectuvie years of decline.
- Hague System (International Design System): Up 6.8%, reflecting strong growth in industrial design protection.
Patent Filing Insights (PCT System)
- Top five countries by number of applications:
- China
- United States
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Germany
- Leading academic institutions:
- University of California (U.S.)
- University of Texas System (U.S.)
- Tsinghua University (China)
- Zhejiang University (China)
- Seoul National University (Republic of Korea)
- Tech trends: The field of digital communications overtook computer technology as the most frequently cited technology area in patent filings—a notable shift in innovation focus, as computer tech had held the top spot since 2019.
International Trademark Applications (Madrid System)
- Top five filing countries:
- United States
- Germany
- China
- France
- United Kingdom
- Leading product category: Applications most commonly covered computer hardware, software, and electronic devices, underscoring the global importance of tech branding.
Industrial Design Filings (Hague System)
- Top five filing countries:
- China
- Germany
- United States
- Italy
- Switzerland
- Top design category: The most design applications were filed in the recording and communication equipment sector, aligning with increased demand for next-gen consumer electronics and smart devices.
These trends point to a reinvigorated global commitment to innovation and IP protection, particularly in fast-evolving sectors like digital tech and industrial design. The increased activity across all three WIPO systems suggests that inventors, businesses, and institutions are more actively seeking to safeguard their intellectual property in a competitive global marketplace.
This global data forms just one part of the bigger picture. For professionals navigating the tech transfer and licensing landscape, localized and sector-specific insights are equally critical. That’s why we encourage you to participate in AUTM’s Salary Survey and Canadian Licensing Activity Survey. Your contributions help shape a clearer understanding of our community’s impact and needs. (Note: The deadline to participate in the U.S. Licensing Activity Survey closed on March 28.)
To learn more about the topics of patents, trademarks, and design, visit the AUTM Learning Center for webinars, on-demand courses, Annual Meeting sessions, and more.