A Longitudinal dataset of sector-level patent data for Europe

Area of Science:

• Economics of Innovation
• Industrial Organization
• International Economics

Background:

• Existing patent data often lacks sector-specific detail for European countries.
• Analyzing technological advancements and R&D requires granular, industry-level patent information.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a comprehensive dataset of patent applications and grants for 24 European countries (1985-2020).
• To facilitate empirical research in the economics of technology, innovation, and industrial organization at the sector level.

Main Methods:

• Utilized European Patent Office (EPO) data from OECD, linked to ISIC Rev.4/NACE Rev.2 sectors.
• Applied sector-technology field correspondence weights for data assignment.
• Developed annual data on patent flows (applications/grants at priority dates) and stocks (using perpetual inventory method with 15% depreciation).

Main Results:

• A unique dataset covering patent applications and grants at the 2-digit sector level is now available.
• Data is provided annually, distinguishing between flows and stocks, based on applicant/inventor residence.
• The dataset spans 24 European countries from 1985 to 2020.

Conclusions:

• The dataset is a valuable resource for empirical research in innovation economics and industrial organization.
• It supports economic policy studies related to industry, science, technology, and innovation (STI).
• Enables detailed analysis of R&D and technological trends across European industries.