In November of 2021, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) released the latest World Intellectual Property Indicators Report. One of the 15 specialized agencies of the United Nations (UN), the WIPO is an international organization that is tasked with promoting global protection for intellectual property (IP). In this article, our Santa Monica business lawyer highlights some of the most important takeaways from the latest global IP report and explains the proactive steps that you can take to protect the rights and interests of your business or organization.  

Four Things to Know About the World Intellectual Property Indicators Report

1. IP Filings are Rising Worldwide—Especially Trademark Registrations

The COVID-19 pandemic created a global economic crisis. As reported by the Congressional Research Service (CRS), most of the world’s economies dipped into a sharp recession in the Spring of 2020. However, the international intellectual property market showed some genuine resilience. Many were surprised that IP filings rose across the world in 2020  “despite the massive economic shock”. Here is a brief overview of the global data: 

  • Patent filings were up 1.6%;

  • Industrial design filing were up 2%; and

  • Trademark filings were up 13.7%. 

While the numbers are impressive across the board given the extent of the pandemic-related economic disruptions, the sharp increase in the number trademark filings is especially noteworthy. In its comprehensive report on key intellectual property indicators, the WIPO notes that the surge in trademark filings reflect global human ingenuity—as many entrepreneurs and existing companies tried to develop new brands, new products, and new services during the pandemic.   

2. U.S. Top Market for Trademark, China Top Market for Patents 

Although there are a number of different international hubs for the development of IP rights, certain areas remain especially strong in certain sectors. Once again, the United States is the top market worldwide for international trademark filings. As reported by the WIPO, the UN measures this statistic by looking for the rate at which entrepreneurs and businesses from different countries use the “Madrid System.” Arising from an international treaty, the WIPO touts the Madrid System as the most cost-effective and efficient way to register and manage worldwide trademarks. As for global patents, China is the top country. It is closely followed by the United States, Japan, and Germany. 

3. America Strong in Computer Technology, Medical Technology, and Digital Communication 

As a diverse, well-developed economy the United States remains a global leader in a number of different areas. The largest share of global IP filings originating from the United States are related to computer technology (12.4%). That is followed closely by medical technology (10.8%) and digital communication (9.7%). Notably, the United States is the only major country in which medical technology makes up a significant share of its overall patent and trademark filings. 

4. Germany has the Most Protected Geographical Indications (GIs)

Another key finding in the latest World Intellectual Property Indicators Report is the increase in Geographical Indications or GIs. The WIPO estimates that there are now 58,800 worldwide. As explained by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), a geographical indication (GI) is a form of IP status that identifies a “good as originating in the territory of a country, or from a region or locality within that territory”.  Most often, GIs are associated with specific regions that are known for their high quality products. 

As an example, the WIPO cites Gruyère for cheese. A particular type of hard cheese, Gruyère, comes from certain regions in Switzerland. Many (but not all) officially Geographical Indications are related to food or alcohol. Notably, Germany has the most GIs in the world. The WIPO notes that German-based products now have 14,394 in total—making up nearly one quarter of all internationally recognized GIs. Other leading countries include China, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. For its size and economic importance, the United States has relatively few globally-known Geographical Indications. 

Take Action: Protect Your Intellectual Property Rights

Intellectual property rights matter. The total global value of IP continues to rise. For many businesses, IP rights are among their most valuable assets. It is imperative that your company takes proactive measures to establish, develop, and protect your IP rights. There are a number of different steps that an existing-business or start-up should follow. It is best to begin with a comprehensive intellectual property audit. Here is what you should know about IP audits: 

  • IP Audit: Do you know that IP that you/your company owns? Do you know its true value? If not, an intellectual property audit is a great place to start. As described by the WIPO, an IP audit is “a systematic review of the intellectual properties owned, used or acquired”. The purpose is to ensure that the decision-maker(s) has all the information they need to protect the financial interests of the company. In business, knowledge is power. 

Every company has unique needs and concerns. Only when you fully understand that IP that your firm already has control over—and whether or not your business has taken all available measures to register/protect those IP rights (trademark, copyright, patent, trade secret, etc)—will you be in the best position to move forward. If you have any specific questions about IP audits, a California business lawyer who has experience with intellectual property matters can help. 

Get Help From Our Santa Monica, CA Intellectual Property Attorney Today

At KLEIN.LAW, our Santa Monica business law attorney has the skills and experience to help clients navigate a wide range of intellectual property matters. If you have any questions about establishing, developing, or protecting your IP rights, we are here as a resource. Get in touch with us by phone at (310) 295-2261 or use our confidential contact form to arrange your initial appointment. From our Santa Monica law office, we help businesses, organizations, and professionals with IP issues throughout Southern California, including in Los Angeles, Long Beach, Torrance, and Pasadena.