Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou Cluster Named Top Innovation Hub in Global Innovation Index 2025

The “Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou” cluster has recently been recognised as the world’s leading innovation cluster in the World Intellectual Property Organization's (WIPO) Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025. This marks the cluster's first time at the top spot, having spent the previous five years in second place. The cluster achieved this distinction with 2,292 Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) applications, 3,775 scientific articles and 135 venture capital deals per million inhabitants over the past five years, showcasing the cluster's vibrant intellectual property (IP) ecosystem.

The GII 2025 introduced venture capital deal volume as a new metric alongside PCT applications and scientific publications, highlighting the cluster’s ability to attract investment and drive innovation. With Hong Kong’s role as a global financial centre and Shenzhen’s leadership in technology, the cluster offers a robust environment for IP creation and commercialization.

The GII 2025 identifies 100 innovation clusters across 33 economies, with China contributing 24 clusters, including Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou, Beijing, and Shanghai-Suzhou, and the United States contributing 22, such as San Jose - San Francisco. This diverse global landscape highlights the collaborative potential for IP professionals seeking strategic opportunities in dynamic innovation hubs.

On 1 September 2025,  WIPO held events at Hong Kong Science Park, including the launch of the GII 2025 rankings and the signing of an agreement to include Hong Kong’s IP-related judicial decisions in WIPO’s global case law database. These initiatives strengthen the region’s role in international IP frameworks, providing valuable resources for IP clients navigating global markets.

For IP professionals, the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster’s top ranking highlights its appeal as a hub for patent filings, technology transfer, and investment opportunities. The region’s strong patent activity, research output, and access to venture capital make it an ideal destination for protecting and advancing intellectual property on a global stage.