SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Institutions: Ministry of Commerce & Industry; Ministry of Finance
The report underscores the increasing global reliance on intangible assets as drivers of economic competitiveness and innovation. Intangible investments - such as research and development, data, software, brands, and organizational capital are now central to industrial and services growth worldwide. It also highlights that these assets not only shape productivity and trade but also define the resilience of economies during global disruptions.
Key findings note that intangible investments have outpaced traditional tangible capital in several advanced and emerging economies, accounting for a significant share of business spending. The report further illustrates sectoral dynamics, with technology-intensive industries and services leading in intangible investment intensity. However, disparities persist across regions, with many developing economies lagging due to limited innovation infrastructure, financing gaps, and weaker IP systems.
The report stresses the need for enhanced cross-border cooperation, stronger intellectual property frameworks, and policies that enable enterprises especially SMEs to leverage intangibles for sustainable competitiveness. WIPO positions itself as a convening platform for member states, industry stakeholders, and research institutions to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Follow the full report here: