7. Taiwan
Ranking according to World Digital Competitiveness Report: 11
Ranking based on the most innovative countries in the world: 11
Total number of patents granted in 2026: 59,476
Taiwan has always been a strong force in innovation which has helped it strengthen its economy, with this high level of innovation driving investments from foreign companies.
6. China
Ranking according to World Digital Competitiveness Report: 17
Ranking based on the most innovative countries in the world: 11
Total number of patents granted in 2026: 639,309
China has made tech advancements a major part of its economy, aiming to become a global tech hub and the country now leads in many sectors including usage of renewable energy and 5G networks, though its technical prowess has made some Western nations nervous, particularly the U.S.