Thai Govt Cracks Down on Counterfeits Nationwide

The Thai government has intensified its crackdown on intellectual property infringement, pursuing 332 cases and seizing more than 1.3 million counterfeit items in the last six months. Authorities estimate the economic damage linked to these cases at around 2.3 billion baht, highlighting the scale of the issue and its impact on trade and investment confidence. The enforcement drive forms part of a coordinated effort to strengthen Thailand’s global economic image.

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At a press briefing on 27 April 2026 at the Customs Department, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas outlined the results under the direction of Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The operation, covering October 2025 to March 2026, brought together the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Justice and the Royal Thai Police. Representatives from key trading partners, including the United States, Switzerland, the European Union and the United Kingdom, also attended.

The government has prioritised a unified “economic-security-justice” approach, targeting counterfeit goods across physical markets, warehouses and border checkpoints, as well as online platforms. The reported economic damage from enforcement actions marks a 78 per cent increase compared with the total figure for Fiscal Year 2025, which stood at 1.3 billion baht. Officials said such violations undermine Thailand’s credibility and long-term competitiveness in global trade.

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun emphasised that intellectual property protection is central to economic development and investor confidence. She warned that counterfeit goods pose risks not only to businesses but also to consumer safety, potentially affecting health and livelihoods. Legitimate businesses, she added, are often unable to compete with lower-priced infringing products.

The crackdown aligns with the government’s Trade Plus policy, aimed at raising trade standards and promoting a fair and transparent business environment. Authorities plan to expand investigations to dismantle infringement networks and close enforcement gaps, while strengthening cooperation with online platforms to address digital marketplace violations.

The Nation reported that officials said enforcement efforts will continue alongside public awareness campaigns and legal reforms to match evolving economic conditions. The government is also seeking closer collaboration with private sector rights holders and international partners. Members of the public are urged not to buy or support counterfeit goods and to report suspected infringements via official channels.

Pictures courtesy of The Nation

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 29 Apr 2026