US places India on IP Priority Watch List again in 2026 Special 301 Report
The United States has once again placed India on its Priority Watch List for intellectual property (IP) concerns, citing persistent enforcement gaps and long-standing patent protection issues. The designation was made in the 2026 Special 301 Report released by the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) on 1 May 2026, which annually reviews how trading partners protect and enforce intellectual property rights.
India Among Six Countries on Priority Watch List
India remains one of six countries on the Priority Watch List, alongside China, Russia, and Indonesia, among others. The report acknowledged that India has taken some steps to strengthen its IP regime — including adding more patent examiners and improving awareness — but noted that progress remains uneven.
