Thailand is intensifying efforts to safeguard its trademarks from unauthorized foreign registrations, particularly focusing on SMEs. Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, emphasizing the importance of intellectual property (IP) protection, mandates action in alignment with the government’s "10 Plus" policy. The initiative seeks to bolster competitiveness and expand opportunities through domestic and international IP reinforcement.
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The Department of Intellectual Property, led by Auramon Supthaweethum, is enhancing its Trademark Monitor project. This project aims to thwart unauthorized registration attempts of Thai trademarks abroad, concentrating on key markets like China and ASEAN. The monitoring occurs during the publication stage when trademarks are publicly disclosed, allowing owners to file objections within a specified timeframe of 60-90 days.
Recently, an incident involving a Vietnamese registration attempt for a trademark similar to "Tao Bin" by Forth Corporation Public Co Ltd highlighted the project’s effectiveness. The department swiftly alerted the Thai owner, aiding them in addressing the opposition process. The project, now in its second year, has attracted over 100 Thai businesses, offering complimentary monitoring services for a year.
Looking ahead, Thailand aims to further support its businesses through these enhanced measures, promoting a secure environment for SMEs. The focus remains on expanding IP protections and preventing any unauthorized overseas trademark registrations, thereby strengthening the country’s economic fabric.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 16 Apr 2026
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