China's Low-Carbon Technological Innovation and Global Patent Competitiveness: An Exploratory Study Based on Patent Data

(Purpose) This study examines China’s green and low-carbon technology patents, analyzing trends in applications, regional innovation hubs, and international competitiveness. As China advances its carbon neutrality goals, understanding its patent landscape provides critical insights for policymakers and industries. (Design/methodology/approach) Using patent data from China’s National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) and global databases, this study categorizes patents into five sectors: energy storage, clean energy, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), energy efficiency, and fossil fuel reduction. It compares China’s patent trends with major economies, including the United States, Europe, Japan, and South Korea, while assessing international patent applications under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). (Findings) China leads in total patent applications, particularly in energy storage and clean energy. However, its international patent filings PCT remain lower than those of the U.S. and Europe, indicating a gap in global expansion. Jiangsu, Beijing, Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Shandong emerge as key innovation hubs. Strengthening international collaboration, particularly with South Korea, could enhance China’s global competitiveness. (Research implications or Originality) This study contributes to green technology innovation research by offering a patent-based, empirical analysis of China’s low-carbon transition. It highlights regional disparities, sectoral trends, and global positioning, providing valuable implications for policy and cross-border cooperation