In 2024, Belgian companies, universities, and research institutions reached a remarkable milestone, submitting a record 2,615 patent applications to the European Patent Office (EPO). This marks a resurgence in growth, recovering from a dip in 2023, when 2,547 applications were filed. The total number of patents submitted to the EPO across Europe last year was 199,264, signaling a slight overall decrease of 0.1 percent compared to the previous year. Interestingly, computer technology, including artificial intelligence applications, emerged as the most active field of innovation.
The European Patent Office highlighted the resilience of European innovation despite ongoing global economic uncertainties. They noted, "The patent data provide a clear roadmap for industry, policy, and investment priorities." This statement reflects a broader trend of increasing patent activity within Belgium, which experienced a rise of 1.1 percent in patent applications in 2024. Over the past decade, Belgium has seen an impressive 28 percent increase in patent applications, securing its position as the twelfth largest contributor globally, accounting for 1.3 percent of all patents filed.
Belgium's growth was primarily driven by standout sectors such as biotechnology, pharmacy, and materials/metallurgy. Among these, the materials/metallurgy category saw a significant jump of 39.7 percent compared to 2023. Additionally, transport and specialized machinery categories, including 3D printing, showed notable increases as well. A regional breakdown reveals that Flanders contributed the bulk of applications, with 66 percent originating from the area, earning Flanders a commendable ninth place among European regions for patent applications. The Brussels region recorded the highest growth level, an impressive 51 percent increase in patent submissions.
Leading the charge in patent applications was the research institution Imec, which filed 203 applications in 2024, marking another year of dominance in the Belgian patent landscape. Following Imec were the chemical company Syensqo and materials specialist Umicore. Other reputable entities such as KU Leuven, Ghent University, University of Antwerp, and the Flemish research institute VITO also featured in the top ten applicants.
Alongside these achievements, there's a noteworthy trend gaining traction: the increasing participation of female inventors in Belgium. Women comprised nearly one-third (32 percent) of all patent applications in 2024, putting Belgium just behind Spain, which leads with 42 percent female applicants. This growth in female representation in innovation reflects an evolving landscape that is becoming more inclusive.
In summary, the year 2024 proved to be a pivotal one for Belgian innovation, characterized by a resurgence in patent filings and a broader demographic of inventors. The contributions of various sectors, especially in technology and materials, underscore the dynamic nature of the Belgian economy and its capacity for continued growth in a challenging global environment. The robust performance of entities like Imec and the rise of female inventors are encouraging signs that innovation in Belgium is not only thriving but diversifying.
Authors and analysts view the continued emphasis on intellectual property as critical, both for securing competitive advantages in the marketplace and for fostering economic growth. As the landscape of innovation continues to evolve, stakeholders across Belgium are poised to adapt strategies that emphasize research, development, and inclusivity, ensuring the country remains at the forefront of technological advancements.