THAILAND UNVEILS SIX-POINT STRATEGY TO STRENGTHEN IP FRAMEWORK AND BOOST INNOVATION

07/10/2025

Thailand has long faced challenges in strengthening its intellectual property (IP) system, particularly with respect to enforcement and innovation capacity. The country’s inclusion on the United States’ Special 301 Watch List has also posed reputational and trade-related challenges, limiting its ability to attract foreign investment. Recognising the central role of IP in driving economic growth and enhancing global competitiveness, the Thai government has introduced a comprehensive reform plan.
 
Despite progress in past years, gaps remain in Thailand’s IP framework, including weak enforcement against infringement, underutilization of research and creativity for commercial purposes, and insufficient support for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These shortcomings not only hinder innovation but also affect Thailand’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index and its broader international standing.
 
At a recent meeting of the National Committee on Intellectual Property Policy, finance minister Pichai Chunhavajira unveiled a six-point strategy designed to overhaul Thailand’s IP ecosystem. The six pillars are:
  1. Promoting the commercial application of research.
  2. Enhancing value through creativity.
  3. Developing financial mechanisms for innovation.
  4. Expanding practical use of IP.
  5. Fostering innovation-based enterprises.
  6. Strengthening data management systems.
 
The strategy, supported by deputy commerce minister Chantawit Tantasith, particularly emphasizes empowering SMEs to leverage IP for creating new business opportunities and increasing product value. Alongside this, the committee also approved the 2026-2027 Intellectual Property Development Plan, focusing on:
 
  • Comprehensive legal reforms.
  • Stricter enforcement against infringement.
  • Improved public services.
  • Awareness campaigns to encourage IP protection and compliance.
 
This multi-pronged approach signals Thailand’s strong commitment to building a robust IP ecosystem that supports innovation, strengthens SME competitiveness, and attracts foreign investment. More importantly, it is a proactive step toward addressing concerns raised in the U.S. Special 301 Watch List, positioning Thailand for removal in the near future. Through these reforms, Thailand aims to elevate its role as a regional innovation hub and foster long-term economic growth.


NANDINI KOHLI
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