The Future of Global Technology Cooperation

"In terms of patent activity, the EU does not have a comparative advantage over the rest of the world in any of the technology fields analysed. In particular, it has a significantly lower research focus on critical technologies than important competitors such as China and Japan," says cep economist André Wolf. His study analyses advanced materials, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, biotechnologies, connectivity, energy and semiconductor technologies.

According to Wolf, EU researchers are strongly engaged in global research networks in all fields. The USA is by far the EU's most important research partner, but China has gained in importance as a partner. EU patents resulting from research collaborations with third countries are cited much more frequently than those without external involvement. "This speaks in favour of the high quality of the results of such collaborations." In addition to advantages, research cooperation also harbours risks. "The level of intellectual property protection in the EU's partner countries is comparatively low on average, mainly due to the relative importance of China and India as research partners," emphasises Wolf.

In order to better manage the benefits and risks, the cep researcher believes that the EU should develop a strategy for cooperation in critical technologies. It should include an intelligent diversification of research partners with a focus on Japan and South Korea, the integration of cooperation partners into internal R&D funding programmes and the consolidation of bilateral partnerships into technology clubs.