Japan: A Technological Powerhouse in Europe as Well
According to the EPO Patent Index 2024 released on March 25, 2025, Japan maintained its position as the third-largest filer of patents in Europe. Japanese companies filed 21,062 patent applications, accounting for 10.6% of the total. Although this represents a slight year-on-year decrease (-2.4%), Japan’s status as a global technological leader remains unshaken.
Behind these figures lies sustained investment in research and development, along with steady, long-term technological innovation.
Key Technology Sectors and the Strong Performance of Japanese Companies
Three sectors showed particularly notable growth in patent filings:
- Electrical machinery, apparatus, and energy: +8.4%
- Transport (including automotive and aerospace): +3.7%
- Computer technology (including AI): +20%
Japanese companies have made remarkable strides, especially in battery and AI technologies. Corporations such as Panasonic, Toyota, and Prime Planet Energy & Solutions are leading the global technology race.
Tokyo’s Prominence and Regional Trends
Tokyo is more than just Japan’s capital—it ranks as the second-largest city in the world for patent filings, acting as a hub of technological innovation. The city concentrates strength across multiple fields, including electronics, AI, mobility, and clean energy.
Meanwhile, regions like Osaka and Aichi are also showing significant growth, raising expectations for innovation emerging from areas outside the capital.
The Unitary Patent System and Global Competition
Under the Unitary Patent System introduced in 2023, Japan’s usage rate is still relatively low at 7.9%, but this marks a notable increase from the previous year’s 4.9%. This surge suggests Japan is accelerating its international strategy.
Utilizing the Unitary Patent System presents a major opportunity for Japanese companies, as it directly reduces costs and simplifies procedures for the European market.
Conclusion: “Evolution” Amid Decline
At first glance, the slight decrease in Japan’s total patent filings might suggest a decline in innovation. However, when examining growth in specific sectors, the concentration of activity in key cities, and the strong performance of leading companies, a different picture emerges: an evolution driven by strategic “selection and focus.”
From quantity to quality—Japan’s technology strategy is now stepping into its next phase.
Bonus: What’s Next?
- Will Japan continue increasing AI-related patent applications?
- Can it maintain its global leadership in battery technology?
- Keep an eye on the patent activity of regional startups and ventures!