Global Innovation Index 2025
The Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025 reveals a dynamic shift in global innovation patterns. While advances in AI and quantum computing accelerate, overall R&D growth has slowed sharply. India’s innovation ranking has improved , reflecting its evolving research and technology landscape.
Global Innovation Trends in 2025
Global R&D growth declined to 2.9% in 2024 and is expected to drop further to 2.3% in 2025. This slowdown marks the lowest rate since the 2010 financial crisis. Despite this, innovation hubs in Europe, North America, and Asia continue to lead. Europe dominates with 15 countries in the top 25, including six in the top 10. Switzerland holds the top position, followed by Sweden and the United States. Emerging economies in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania also gain prominence.
Top Innovative Countries Globally
The top 10 countries in the GII 2025 are Switzerland, Sweden, the USA, South Korea, Singapore, the UK, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark, and China. China ranks 10th and excels in patent filings and R&D expenditure, surpassing Switzerland in knowledge and technology outputs. These countries lead through strong innovation ecosystems and investment in technology.
India’s Performance and Growth
India ranks 38th in the GII 2025, a rise from 48th in 2020. It is the top innovator among lower-middle-income economies and in the Central and Southern Asia region. India scores well in Knowledge and Technology Outputs (22nd) and Market Sophistication (38th). However, it lags in Business Sophistication (64th), Infrastructure (61st), and Institutions (58th). This mix reflects India’s growing research capacity but marks areas needing improvement.
About the Global Innovation Index
The GII, published by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), ranks 139 economies using over 80 indicators. These indicators fall under seven pillars – Institutions, Human Capital and Research, Infrastructure, Market Sophistication, Business Sophistication, Knowledge and Technology Outputs, and Creative Outputs. The index measures both innovation inputs and outputs, offering a comprehensive view of how countries convert R&D into economic growth.
Regional Innovation
Europe remains the most innovative region, led by Switzerland and Sweden. North America holds strong positions with the USA and Canada in the top 20. Asia’s rise is marked by South Korea, Singapore, China, and India making improvements. Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania are emerging as important innovation hubs, reflecting shifting global innovation dynamics.
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