The study “The Economic Contribution of Intellectual Property Intensive Industries in Brazil,” presented at the IP Key LA Summit 2025, highlights the significant impact of intellectual property (IP) industries on the Brazilian economy. Between 2020 and 2022, these industries accounted for 39.7% of formal employment in Brazil, showing a notable increase from the 38.7% recorded in the previous period (2017-2019).

In addition to their crucial role in generating jobs, companies investing in trademarks, patents, and copyrights offer considerably higher salaries. Workers in these industries earned, on average, 30.5% more than those in other sectors, reflecting the high level of skill demanded by the IP market.

Growth in Exports and Contribution to Brazil’s GDP

These industries also demonstrated significant growth in Brazilian exports, increasing from 11% to 13.3% between 2020 and 2022, reinforcing Brazil’s global relevance in the intellectual property market. Their contribution to Brazil’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was equally significant, representing 50.2% of the GDP in the past two years, surpassing the 48.3% contribution in the previous period.

Growth of Green Patents and Sustainability

A key highlight of the report is the performance of sectors related to green patents that involve sustainable technologies. These sectors posted a commercial surplus of USD 18 billion in the last three years, emphasizing the role of innovation and trademark and patent protection as drivers of economic growth.

The Importance of Intellectual Property Law Enforcement

Moreover, the practical application of intellectual property laws is seen as crucial for ensuring the protection of these industries. Initiatives like Operation Creta II and Operation 404, which resulted in the seizure of more than 11 million illicit products and the blocking of 675 illegal websites and apps, highlight the importance of international cooperation and the strengthening of IP protection networks. In Brazil, the Federal Police dismantled criminal groups smuggling counterfeit cigarettes, with an estimated loss of USD 250 million.

Opportunities for International Firms in the Brazilian Market

This report underscores Brazil’s strategic position as a market for intellectual property investments, especially for firms seeking new growth opportunities in a dynamic and innovative economic environment.

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