Data from the EPO database shows that more European patents were granted in 2016 than ever before; a 40% increase from 2015 to 2016 (69,500 up to 97,000 patents).

The data seems to suggest that EPO examiners are now granting more patents than in previous years across multiple sectors.

Sector No. of EU Granted Patents in 2016 Percentage increase (2015-2016)
Medical devices & pharmaceuticals 16,400 40%
Automotive 4,750 Over 40%
Food and Drink 1,300 27%

UK based applicants obtained 3,200 European patents in 2016, up from 2,100 in previous years, also confirming the rise in granted patent applications.

The EPO’s latest patent data is available here: http://bit.ly/2l4XAmd

Source: http://bit.ly/2kcT8NZ

Summary
European Granted Patents Up 40% in 2016
Article Name
European Granted Patents Up 40% in 2016
Description
Data from the EPO database shows that more European patents were granted in 2016 than ever before; a 40% increase from 2015 to 2016 (69,500 up to 97,000 patents).
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Publisher Name
Dawn Ellmore Employment
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