China Remains the World’s Largest Source of PCT Applications in 2025

Introduction

International patent applications filed through WIPO’s Patent Cooperation Treaty increased for the second consecutive year in 2025.

A total of approximately 275,900 PCT applications were filed worldwide, representing year-on-year growth of 0.7%. Applicants from China contributed the largest number of filings, with 73,718 applications, an increase of 5.3% compared with 2024.

1. China Maintains Its Leading Position

China remained the largest origin of PCT applications in 2025.

The continued growth in filings indicates that Chinese companies, universities and research organisations are increasingly seeking patent protection beyond the Chinese domestic market.

For international businesses, this trend also means that Chinese-origin patent portfolios are becoming more relevant when assessing overseas competition, freedom to operate and technology partnerships.

2. Digital Technologies Drive Growth

Digital communication and semiconductor technologies recorded the strongest growth among the leading PCT technology fields in 2025, with both increasing by 6.1%.

Computer technology also remained one of the largest areas of international patent activity. These trends reflect continued investment in telecommunications, artificial intelligence, chip technologies and digital infrastructure.

3. Chinese Companies Remain Active International Filers

Huawei Technologies remained the largest individual PCT applicant in 2025, with 7,523 published international applications.

The presence of major Chinese technology companies among leading international applicants demonstrates the growing importance of overseas patent portfolios to Chinese businesses operating in global markets.

4. Implications for International Businesses

The increase in Chinese-origin PCT filings may affect companies operating in China and other major markets.

International businesses should consider:

Monitoring relevant PCT applications filed by Chinese competitors;
Reviewing international patent landscapes before entering new markets;
Coordinating Chinese and overseas freedom-to-operate searches;
Assessing potential licensing and cooperation opportunities; and
Filing internationally important inventions within the applicable priority deadlines.

Strategic Recommendations

International applicants should:

Coordinate Chinese filings with their wider PCT and national filing strategies.
Monitor international applications in key technical fields.
Review competitor portfolios before launching products or entering new jurisdictions.
Conduct freedom-to-operate analysis in both China and major overseas markets.
Identify potential licensing, acquisition or collaboration opportunities at an early stage.

For assistance with PCT filings, Chinese national-phase entry or international patent strategy, contact the Reehor IP team.

Planning an International Patent Strategy?

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