Global patent filings reach record levels in 2024: what this means for innovation in Eurasia

According to the latest WIPO World Intellectual Property Indicators 2025 report, global patenting activity reached a new all-time high in 2024, with approximately 3.7 million applications filed worldwide — a 4.9% increase compared to 2023.

This marks the fifth consecutive year of growth, highlighting the resilience of global innovation even amid economic uncertainty.

 

Key global trends

Asia remains the world’s innovation hub, receiving around 70% of all patent applications.

China (CNIPA) continues to dominate, with 1.8 million filings — more than triple the number submitted to the USA (USPTO).

In terms of filings per GDP, China also leads with 4,977 applications per USD 100 billion of GDP.

The number of active patents in force worldwide reached 19.7 million (+6%).

Utility model filings rose to 3.3 million, reflecting a 4% annual increase.

 

Eurasian perspective: Kazakhstan shows notable growth

Within the Eurasian region, Kazakhstan stands out as one of the fastest-growing innovation ecosystems, according to WIPO statistics.

In 2024, Kazakhstan recorded a 22.2% increase in patent filings — one of the strongest growth rates among Eurasian economies. Most importantly:

— The growth was primarily driven by a rise in resident filings,

— Indicating expanding domestic innovation capacity and rising interest in IP protection within the country,

— Kazakhstan also demonstrated stronger activity in international filing systems, including PCT.

 

This trend positions Kazakhstan as an increasingly important innovation hub in Central Asia.

What this means for Eurasian innovators and applicants

1. Growing global competition

With global filings at record levels, companies seeking to enter the Eurasian market must adopt more strategic IP filing plans to ensure strong and competitive protection in the region.

2. Regional opportunities

The rapid growth of innovation in Asia — including Eurasia — presents opportunities for companies in the EAEU and CIS to strengthen their patent portfolios and expand into neighboring markets.

3. Cost-effective IP strategies

In a more competitive global landscape, optimizing filing routes (national, EAPO, or PCT) is essential to maximize protection while maintaining balanced budgets.

4. Increased investment potential

The surge in patent activity in Kazakhstan and across the region may attract additional R&D investment and support the development of high-tech industries.

If you have any questions or need our assistance in obtaining IP protection through EAPO, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@patentica.com.