The scientific research and development sector in 2024 shows Germany leading with 349.0 million hours, followed by the United Kingdom at 227.9 million hours and Italy at 185.16 million hours. Notably, Spain experienced a significant year-on-year increase of 7.4%, and Portugal at 7.53%, highlighting their growing focus on R&D activities. Meanwhile, Romania and Lithuania saw declines of -9.31% and -6.2% respectively, reflecting possible shifts in policies or funding. Countries like Poland (75.59 million hours) and the Netherlands (77.08 million hours) continue to play important roles, with moderate yet consistent growth in their R&D sectors.
Looking forward, a keen eye should be kept on emerging markets and smaller economies, such as Ireland with an 8.61% increase and New Zealand at a 4.17% rise in R&D activity. Additionally, diverse policy changes, funding availability, and technological advancements are likely to influence regional R&D growth rates, especially in countries currently showing remarkable upward trends.
Top countries in Employees in Scientific Research and Development Sector by Country
| # | 10 Countries | Million Hours | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Germany | 349 | 2023 | +2.05% | +2.46% | View data |
| 2 | 2 United Kingdom | 227.9 | 2023 | -6.23% | +3.25% | View data |
| 3 | 3 Italy | 185.16 | 2023 | +1.79% | +3.06% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Spain | 145.81 | 2023 | +6.8% | +7.4% | View data |
| 5 | 5 Netherlands | 77.08 | 2023 | +4.17% | +5.21% | View data |
| 6 | 6 Poland | 75.59 | 2023 | +0.015% | +3.13% | View data |
| 7 | 7 Austria | 31.89 | 2023 | +2.44% | +5.1% | View data |
| 8 | 8 Denmark | 29.76 | 2023 | +0.95% | +5.97% | View data |
| 9 | 9 Finland | 29.3 | 2023 | +1.03% | +2.58% | View data |
| 10 | 10 Portugal | 26.31 | 2023 | +6.14% | +7.53% | View data |
