Global Trademark Applications Reach 2.9 Million in 2021, Reflecting Growth

Patent

Abstract

Data for 2021 shows that the number of trademark applications worldwide reached 2.9 million, indicating an increasing demand for international trademark protection. This figure reflects an expanding global economy and an increase in international business, meaning companies are stepping up their trademark registrations to protect the value of their brands. In particular, there has been a noticeable increase in trademark applications filed by non-residents, which is thought to be due to a desire to maintain competitiveness in the global market and to expand into emerging markets. Trademark applications by non-residents indicate increased cross-border business activity and the importance of protecting international intellectual property rights, suggesting that trademark strategies are becoming increasingly important as companies expand internationally.

Number of trademark applications by nonresidents

Between 2004 and 2021, the number of industrial design trademark applications filed globally increased, reaching 2.9 million in 2021. The increase in the number of applications, especially during this period, indicates the growing importance of design. The background to this is that companies are focusing on protecting industrial designs in order to differentiate their products and strengthen their brands. In particular, the number of applications filed by non-residents is on the rise, which is part of a strategy aimed at expanding global business and ensuring competitiveness in the international market. The 100% increase in global filings compared to its peak reflects growing international interest in industrial design and underscores the need for design protection in each national market. This trend indicates that with the advancement of digitalization and globalization, companies are placing greater importance on design strategies.

Number of trademark applications by nonresidents
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The maximum is the latest one, 2.9Mcount of World

Number of trademark applications filed by non-residents (worldwide)

From 2004 to 2021, the number of trademark applications in the United States has increased significantly, reaching 348,000 in 2021. This data shows that the United States is a global leader in trademark protection. In particular, the increase in filings by non-residents reflects the growing importance of access to the U.S. market and brand protection. This is because as companies expand globally, they are becoming increasingly interested in the large American consumer market. The 100% increase in filings since its peak is a testament to the stability and reliability of the U.S. trademark system and a sign of companies’ willingness to strengthen the protection of their intellectual property rights. Additionally, digitalization and the expansion of international trade are likely factors driving the increase in trademark applications.

Number of trademark applications filed by non-residents (worldwide)
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The maximum is the latest one, 348kcount of United States

Trademark Applications, Nonresidents (Worldwide, Latest Year)

According to 2021 data, the United States by far dominates in terms of trademark applications, with 348,000 applications filed, the largest number out of the world’s total of 2.51 million. Reflecting the United States being a center for trademark protection, the large number of applications, particularly from non-residents, indicates that access to the American market and protection of brand value are important to companies. The average number of applications worldwide is 20,700, while the US figure stands out, showing the scale and influence of its trademark system. The increase in trademark applications by non-residents is due to the advancement of globalization and digitalization, as companies strengthen trademark protection as a strategic measure to increase their competitiveness in the international market. This trend is particularly evident in large markets like the United States, and reflects the growing importance of trademarks in the international business environment.

Trademark Applications, Nonresidents (Worldwide, Latest Year)
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The maximum is 348kcount of United States, the average is 20.7kcount, and the total is 2.51Mcount

Trademark applications, nonresidents (region, latest year)

According to 2020 data, the region with the highest number of industrial design trademark applications was East Asia and the Pacific, with 710,000 applications. This reflects the high level of interest and demand for industrial design protection concentrated in this region. East Asia and the Pacific region saw far more filings than any other region, due to the expansion of manufacturing and consumer markets and the growing importance of design. The overall total number of applications was 2.25 million, compared to an average of 321,000, again indicating the growing international importance of industrial design. Trademark applications for industrial designs are considered important as part of a company’s strategy to differentiate its products and strengthen its brand, and the advancement of digitalization and globalization in particular has increased the need to protect designs. The increase in non-resident applications reflects a strategic response from companies seeking to secure design rights amid increasing competition in international markets. This trend is especially evident in regions with fast-growing economies and areas with a lot of international trade.

Trademark applications, nonresidents (region, latest year)
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The maximum is 710kcount of East Asia & Pacific, the average is 321kcount, and the total is 2.25Mcount

Reference

The World Bank – Trademark applications, nonresident, by count

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