India on USTR priority IPR watch list

India has been retained on the priority watch list in the latest Special 301 Report released by the Office of the United States Trade Representative, highlighting concerns over intellectual property rights (IPR) protection and enforcement. 

The report places India among six countries, including China and Russia, flagged for significant IP-related issues.Vietnam was designated as a Priority Foreign Country, the most stringent classification, for failing to make progress on IP protection and enforcement. 

The USTR said this tag is reserved for countries with the most serious deficiencies impacting US interests. Placement on the priority watch list signals persistent concerns around enforcement, market access, and policy frameworks affecting IP rights.  The report is an annual assessment covering over 100 trading partners globally.The USTR also said it may consider further action, including investigations, if issues remain unresolved, particularly in Vietnam’s case. 

Within 30 days, it will decide whether to initiate a probe under Section 301 of the Trade Act. The move could lead to consultations or potential trade measures. 

Officials stressed continued engagement with partners to improve compliance and ensure stronger protection for innovation-driven industries globally.