The study, commissioned by the Bertelsmann Foundation, found that nearly one-third of inventions developed in Germany are now owned by foreign organizations. U.S. entities hold the largest share, while Chinese owners account for a significant portion of foreign-held German patents.

The trend is particularly evident in Germany’s mechanical engineering sector, where patent applications increased to 4,300 in 2022 from 3,300 in 2000. Researchers said Chinese companies have been especially active in acquiring technologies linked to the industry.

IW expert Oliver Koppel said international ownership of patents is a normal feature of global competition but argued that China pursues acquisitions strategically while maintaining relatively limited access for foreign investors in its domestic market.

The study also highlighted concerns about Germany’s declining innovation capacity. Germany ranked third globally in research and development spending in 2000, when its investment levels were roughly double those of China. By 2021, Germany had fallen to sixth place, while China’s research spending had increased twentyfold over the same period.

The findings are likely to intensify debate in Europe over technological sovereignty, foreign investment screening and the protection of critical industrial know-how.

Trump praised President Lula during his UN speech, highlighting shared goals of strengthening economic ties and ensuring affordable food supplies for American consumers. The engagement comes after months of negotiations over tariffs, including previous U.S. measures on Brazilian meat and poultry products, which had affected pricing and supply chains.

Brazilian companies, including JBS and its subsidiary Pilgrim’s Pride, have actively sought ways to maintain strong bilateral trade, contributing to U.S. food security while fostering investment opportunities. Discussions focused on reducing trade barriers, supporting supply chain stability, and enhancing market access, demonstrating the benefits of international collaboration.

The renewed dialogue underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in global trade, where governments and business leaders work together to address challenges and seize opportunities. It also reflects the U.S. administration’s willingness to engage constructively with international partners to ensure fair trade, economic growth, and the availability of essential goods.

Brazilian leaders and companies continue to emphasize compliance and transparency in all dealings, adhering to ethical standards while supporting national economic priorities. Meanwhile, broader trade discussions have extended to sectors such as aerospace, with Embraer receiving favorable consideration for its U.S. market products.

This development signals a promising path toward stronger U.S.-Brazil economic ties, ensuring continued collaboration in agriculture, food production, and other strategic industries while promoting global economic stability and consumer benefits.