In recent years, the economies of Romania and other European Union member states have faced significant challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, economic instability, and geopolitical tensions. These crises have highlighted the urgent need for sustainable digital transformation. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the economic impact of sustainable digitalization and to assess the role of technology transfer and intellectual property protection in fostering innovation and long-term growth. The study employs an exploratory research design based on secondary data, focusing on patent dynamics, and digitalization levels across EU economies, with particular emphasis on Romania. The findings reveal a persistent structural gap between Romania and the EU average in terms of R&D intensity, patent activity, and digital performance indicators such as the Digital Economy and Society Index. Despite possessing advanced digital infrastructure, Romania continues to lag behind in innovation capacity and the protection of emerging technology-based inventions. Strengthening technology transfer mechanisms, increasing R&D investment, and modernizing the IP legislative framework are essential for bridging this gap. The paper concludes that sustainable digital transformation, underpinned by effective technology transfer and robust IP protection, should be regarded as an integrated strategy for enhancing competitiveness, stimulating innovation, and ensuring resilient economic development.
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