The government has launched a nationwide crackdown on counterfeit luxury goods and intellectual property violations to restore consumer confidence and strengthen its case for removal from the United States Trade Representative (USTR)’s Watch List. The campaign also supports Thailand’s legal obligations under global trade agreements and addresses growing concerns over online and offline sales of fake merchandise.

In a recent operation in Samut Sakhon province, police from the Economic Crime Suppression Division arrested two Chinese nationals and seized over 80,000 counterfeit items, with an estimated market value exceeding 52 million baht. The confiscated goods included nearly 74,000 consumer products, around 3,000 electronic accessories, and over 1,400 imitation luxury brands. Officials also seized 12 electronic devices for forensic analysis to trace supply chains and financial transactions.

According to Government Spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap, the suspects have been charged under Thailand’s Trademark Act and relevant sections of the Criminal Code for the possession and sale of counterfeit goods. Authorities are also investigating allegations of corruption involving government officials accused of accepting bribes to facilitate the import and sale of fake products, with those found guilty facing disciplinary and legal action.

Thailand remains on the USTR’s Special 301 Watch List for 2025 due to concerns over insufficient protection of intellectual property. In response, the Department of Intellectual Property is preparing to submit a progress report under the country’s IP Work Plan, which includes enforcement efforts, legal amendments, and reforms in the management of music copyrights. U.S. officials have welcomed recent legislative updates and regulatory improvements.

To safeguard intellectual property and improve Thailand’s standing in global trade, the government has called on the public to report suspected IP violations or corruption through the Prime Minister’s Hotline 1111, by post to Government House, or via email at jirayu9000@gmail.com.