A shopping mall in central Bangkok has been identified in the United States Trade Representative's 2025 Notorious Markets Report for high levels of intellectual property infringement. Released on March 3, the report highlighted 37 online and 32 physical markets across 19 countries, with the Bangkok mall being the only location in Thailand cited. This points to ongoing challenges, despite intensified efforts by Thai authorities to curb trademark and copyright violations.
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The report's findings were acknowledged by Armon Thapthawitham, director-general of Thailand's Department of Intellectual Property. She noted appreciation from stakeholders regarding enhanced enforcement by the department, the Economic Crime Suppression Division, and the Royal Thai Police. These efforts have included raids, awareness campaigns, and cooperation from mall operators who have terminated leases of tenants caught in IP violations.
Despite these actions, Armon mentioned continued infringement attempts, such as sales through temporary stalls to evade inspections. Authorities plan to ramp up measures by targeting major offenders more aggressively. Notably, Thailand’s online market scene has improved, with no local e-commerce platforms on this year's notorious list, a trend attributed to collaborative steps like the memorandum of understanding signed by major online platforms to bolster IP protection.
Future enforcement will focus on broader investigations, targeting warehouses and large-scale suppliers, with efforts covering Bangkok, tourist hotspots, border areas, and online channels. Armon emphasized Thailand's commitment to fortifying IP protection to bolster trade and investment, and expressed intent to work with US counterparts to reflect progress in future reports.
Businesses and consumers are urged to steer clear of counterfeit goods, as continued purchases not only pose risks but also harm Thailand's economic reputation, reported Khaosod.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 05 Mar 2026
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