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The pharmaceutical and healthcare sector is emerging as one of the leading fields in filing patent in Vietnam, reflecting intense competition between international corporations and domestic enterprises. Vietnam is not only a consumption market but also a strategic destination for regional research and development (R&D) activities.
Enterprises doing business in Vietnam should contact a reputable Vietnam Intellectual Property Law Firm to receive in-depth consultation to their needs.
Patent landscape in Vietnam’s pharmaceutical sector
According to the IP Market 2025 Report by ASL LAW, the distribution of patents in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector is notable:
• United States: 29% of patent filings, leading globally.
• Vietnam: 16%, on par with Japan.
• China: 10%
• South Korea: 9%
The patent leadership of global corporations such as Unilever Global, Unicharm Corporation, Gilead Sciences, Eli Lilly, and Novartis highlights that Vietnam is becoming a “high-tech battleground,” where intellectual property determines market positioning.
Domestic enterprises: Accelerating in R&D and IP
Although multinational corporations dominate, Vietnamese companies are accelerating in biotechnology, medical devices, and high-tech pharmaceuticals. Filing patent in Vietnam and participation in R&D alliances have become critical strategies to enhance competitiveness, attract investment, and expand market share.
IP strategy – Key to gaining advantage
In this competitive context, Vietnamese enterprises can leverage three main strategic directions:
- Patent protection: Early patent registration helps businesses secure intellectual property rights, reduce dispute risks, and create commercial leverage.
- R&D alliances: Collaborating with multinational corporations or research institutes allows domestic enterprises to accelerate innovation without excessive capital investment.
- Technology transfer: Engaging in global value chains through technology transfer enables learning of advanced technologies while producing high-value competitive products.
Vietnam – An IP-driven market battleground
Vietnam’s pharmaceutical and healthcare sector is witnessing a fierce intellectual property race, where “who owns the IP, gains the advantage.” Monitoring and understanding the patent strategies of global corporations is essential for domestic enterprises to advance while helping shape Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem.
Download the IP Market 2025 Report here to gain detailed insights on trends, opportunities, and intellectual property strategies in Vietnam’s pharmaceutical and healthcare sector.
ASL Law is a leading full-service and independent Vietnamese law firm made up of experienced and talented lawyers. ASL Law is ranked as the top tier Law Firm in Vietnam by Legal500, Asia Law, WTR, and Asia Business Law Journal. Based in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, the firm’s main purpose is to provide the most practical, efficient and lawful advice to its domestic and international clients. If we can be of assistance, please email to [email protected].
ASL LAW is the top-tier Vietnam law firm for Intellectual Property Services. If you need any advice, please contact us for further information or collaboration.
