Industries that make intensive use of intellectual property rights (IPRs) are crucial to European competitiveness. They generated almost half of the European Union’s GDP during the period 2021-2023, as well as over 30% of all jobs in the EU and paying on average nearly 41% higher wages (for patent-intensive industries the wage premium is even higher at almost 59%). They also accounted for over 78% of EU exports and over 76% of imports. Some €70.7 billion in private equity and venture capital, over 88% of all such funding in the EU, was invested in startups operating in these industries.

IPR-intensive industries drive Europe’s economy, trade and startup funding

A new study from the European Patent Office (EPO) and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) shows the significant impact that IPR-intensive industries have on GDP and job creation, as well as on cross-border trade and investment in the EU. These industries range from technology and healthcare companies that rely heavily on patents to clothing, food and luxury brands that rely on trade marks, as well as the creative industries around music, film and games that rely on copyright. The joint study – IP and innovation in European sectors – is the fifth in a series which, for over a decade, has quantified the importance of IPRs to the EU.

EPO President António Campinos said: “IPR-intensive industries are at the heart of Europe’s innovation and competitiveness. This study provides clear evidence of their powerful contribution to Europe’s economy, driving employment, attracting investment and strengthening trade. A strong and efficient intellectual property system, built on legally robust, high-quality patents, is essential to help innovators grow and succeed globally. At the EPO, we are fully committed to supporting technology-driven companies of all sizes, notably through simplification initiatives such as the Unitary Patent, to foster sustainable growth, jobs and competitiveness across Europe.”

EUIPO Executive Director João Negrão said: “Enhancing the role of IP rights as catalysts for innovation and growth in Europe is one of the key priorities in EUIPO’s Strategic Plan 2030. This report documents the important role they have in generating economic growth and employment today, and the critical function of IPR to enhance the competitiveness of EU businesses. By showing that the most innovative sectors attract the bulk of risk capital, the report also points towards the future in the context of addressing the objectives set out in the Draghi report. EUIPO will continue to work to promote the use of IP rights as a lever for innovative companies in Europe to access finance.”

Source: https://mcipo.gouv.mc/en/news/new-joint-study-epo-and-euipo