The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has revealed that one Thai trade area appears in the 2025 Notorious Markets report on high global intellectual property violations, while no Thai online platforms are named. The Department of Intellectual Property stresses its ongoing efforts to crack down on infringing goods and to continuously strengthen proactive measures.
Mrs. Ornmon Sapthaweetham, Director-General of the Department of Intellectual Property, disclosed that on 3 Mar 2026 GMT+7, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) published its 2025 Notorious Markets report listing 37 online marketplaces and 32 trade areas across 19 countries notorious for intellectual property infringement. Thailand’s report shows no Thai e-commerce platforms named, but one shopping center remains listed as a high-infringement trade area continuing from 2024.
"Although a Thai trade area remains listed, stakeholders commend the Department, the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECSD), and the Royal Thai Police for increasing the frequency and intensity of enforcement, especially against trademark and copyright infringements. They have also conducted awareness campaigns targeting traders and consumers about the impact of counterfeit goods. Meanwhile, rights holders and shopping centers have terminated leases with tenants caught infringing and have closed numerous shops selling counterfeit products."
There are still attempts to illegally sell counterfeit goods, such as via temporary street stalls or altered sales methods to evade inspections. Both government and private sectors continue to closely monitor the situation to enhance enforcement intensity and pursue arrests of major offenders.
Regarding online markets, no Thai platforms were named this year because the Department secured cooperation agreements with platforms to protect intellectual property online. These agreements require platforms to promptly notify and suspend sales of infringing goods and maintain ongoing proactive measures, helping to raise protection standards consistent with international practices.
Mrs. Ornmon said Thailand prioritizes intellectual property protection as a key mechanism to promote trade, investment, and investor confidence domestically and internationally. The country is ready to improve prevention and enforcement efforts more effectively, working closely with all sectors. It also aims to educate traders, entrepreneurs, and the public not to buy, use, or support counterfeit goods, which can harm consumers and damage the country's image and economy. If intellectual property infringement is observed, tips can be reported via hotline 1368 orwww.ipthailand.go.th
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