Bangkok — Thailand will remain on the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) Watch List for intellectual property (IP) protection in 2026, according to the annual Special 301 Report released on May 1st (Thailand time). The decision comes even as U.S. officials acknowledged notable progress in Thailand’s enforcement efforts against piracy and counterfeiting.
The report places Thailand among 19 countries and regions on the Watch List, which merits bilateral attention to address underlying IP issues. Other nations on the list include Canada, the European Union, Mexico, and Brazil. No countries were elevated to the more serious Priority Watch List or Priority Foreign Country status in ways that directly affected Thailand this year.
Progress Acknowledged by USTR
The USTR spoke to several positive developments in Thailand:
– Stronger coordination among enforcement agencies.
– Increased seizures by customs officials.
– Shutdowns of major piracy services.
– Ongoing amendments to the Patent Act and Copyright Act to facilitate accession to international treaties, such as the Hague Agreement and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty.
Thai authorities have intensified operations, including raids on warehouses and distribution networks, with a focus on key retail areas.
In the first six months of fiscal year 2026 (October 2025 to March 2026), officials handled 332 IP infringement cases and seized more than 1.3 million counterfeit items, with estimated damages exceeding 2.3 billion baht (approximately US$71 million). This represents a big increase compared to previous periods.
Persistent Concerns
Despite these gains, the USTR noted that counterfeit and pirated goods remain widely available, particularly through online platforms. Enforcement continues to focus heavily on small-scale operators rather than major suppliers and distribution networks. Additional concerns include:
– Rising online piracy.
– Lengthy legal proceedings and relatively weak penalties.
– Patent examination backlogs, especially for pharmaceuticals.
– Continued use of unlicensed software by government agencies and businesses.
The report urges Thailand to accelerate legal reforms, target high-level distributors more effectively, and enhance transparency in areas such as geographical indications.
Thai Government Response
Auramon Supthaweethum, Director-General of Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property (DIP), stated that removing the country from the Watch List remains a priority. Thai officials view the report as recognition of consistent progress while committing to further alignment with international standards to boost investor confidence and support economic growth.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas stated that stronger IP protection safeguards consumers from substandard goods, ensures fair competition for legitimate businesses, and strengthens Thailand’s position in global trade.
Thailand was previously removed from the more severe Priority Watch List years ago and has worked steadily to improve its standing. Officials plan to use recent enforcement data in ongoing bilateral discussions with the U.S. to demonstrate commitment and push for eventual delisting.
The Special 301 Report serves as a key annual assessment of global IP protection and enforcement, influencing U.S. trade policy and negotiations. Thailand and the U.S. maintain strong economic ties, with IP issues remaining an important element in bilateral relations.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
