Whalesbook
India Faces Increased IP Scrutiny
The U.S. Trade Representative's (USTR) annual Special 301 Report has again placed India on its Priority Watch List for intellectual property (IP) protection and enforcement. This designation, shared with major economies like China and Russia, signals heightened U.S. scrutiny over India's IP practices. Ambassador Jamieson Greer stated the USTR will use enforcement tools against unfair trade practices to protect American innovators worldwide.
USTR's Approach to IP
The USTR plans to work closely with these countries over the next year. Ambassador Rick Switzer stressed that U.S. innovators and brands need strong IP protection. The USTR will use trade talks and other discussions to tackle IP-related market access issues.
Other Trade Watchlist Changes
Separately, Vietnam was named a Priority Foreign Country. Argentina and Mexico moved to the Watch List after showing improvements, while the European Union was also added. The report coincides with other USTR trade probes under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, including concerns over excess manufacturing capacity. India's shrimp exports also faced recent criticism over alleged government subsidies that created an uneven playing field for U.S. producers.