Foreign companies filing patents in India (Updated 2024)

India’s ascent in the Global Innovation Index (WIPO)—from 81st place in 2015 to 40th in 2023—underscores its growing prominence as a global innovation hub. As India continues to attract attention for its technological advancements and favorable business environment, it’s not just domestic companies that are driving this innovation boom.

In 2023, a significant number of foreign companies have sought to establish and protect their intellectual property in India, indicating the country’s critical role in the global innovation landscape. This trend highlights India’s strategic importance and its appeal as a key market for global enterprises.

Join us as we delve into the landscape of foreign patent applications in India for 2023. Discover which global leaders are making their mark on Indian soil and what this means for the future of innovation in India.

Curious about which Indian companies led in patent filings in India in 2024? 

Insights & Analysis:-

Key Findings:

    • As one of the oldest companies on the list, Nokia has pioneered telecommunications in India for over a decade and continues to innovate in the modern era.
    • Schneider Electric – a global innovator in energy management – is contributing to India’s Smart Cities Mission by providing integrated solutions that enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of urban infrastructure. This includes smart grids, intelligent traffic management systems, and smart building technologies.
    •  79th in the list is Kohler, renowned for its premium plumbing products, which hass masterfully transformed everyday home essentials into luxury experiences, setting new standards in home innovation.
    • Otis, which stands 74th in the list, is a manufacturer and service provider of elevators, escalators, and moving walkways.
    • Rieter Holding, ranking 77th among non-Indian patent filers in India, stands out as the sole textile machinery firm on the list.

Geographical Distribution:

    • United States: A significant number of top patent filers, including Qualcomm, Microsoft, Google, Apple and Intel are based in the United States, indicating the country’s strong emphasis on intellectual property and innovation.
    • Japan: Japanese companies such as Honda Motor, Suzuki Motor, Panasonic and Mitsubishi Electric also feature prominently, reflecting Japan’s robust R&D capabilities across various sectors, particularly in automotive and electronics.
    • China: With companies like Huawei Tech, Oppo and Xiaomi, China is also a key player, especially in the electronics and telecommunications sectors.

Sectoral Insights:

    • Telecommunications: Companies like Qualcomm, Huawei Tech and Ericsson leading the list. This highlights the significant investment and focus on innovation within the tech industry.
    • Automotive: Companies like Honda Motor, Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai Motor are actively filing patents, indicating ongoing innovation in vehicle design, manufacturing processes, and new technologies such as electric vehicles.
    • Electronics: Samsung Electronics, Philips, LG Electronics and Panasonic are major contributors, reflecting continuous advancements in consumer electronics and related technologies.

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Our comprehensive report provides an in-depth look into the patent portfolio. The report includes a breakdown of the patent portfolio across various technologies, listing the patent along with brief summaries of each patent's technology.