India Is Back On America’s Watch List Over Intellectual Property Protection Failure

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI – On April 19, the United States once again placed India on its “Priority Watch List” in its 2025 Trade Report, highlighting significant ongoing concerns over intellectual property) protection and enforcement. According to the report, India continues to be one of the most challenging major economies in the world when it comes to safeguarding intellectual property rights.

Despite some progress, including increased public awareness and deeper engagement with the U.S. on intellectual property issues, India has made little headway on long-standing concerns, particularly regarding patent protection.

Patent issues were singled out as a major concern, with the report emphasizing the impact of India’s patent laws on various sectors.

It also flagged the long waiting periods that patent applicants face and the excessive reporting requirements.

The report further criticized the lack of clarity in the interpretation of the Indian Patents Act, which has raised concerns among stakeholders. Despite India’s defense of its IP policies, arguing that limiting protections can help promote access to essential technologies, the U.S. highlighted India’s high customs duties on IP-intensive products. These include products in the information and communications technology sector, as well as solar energy equipment, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and capital goods.

“While steps to improve IP Office operations and procedures are to be commended, India’s overall IP enforcement remains inadequate,” the report concluded.

India is one of eight countries currently on the U.S. “Priority Watch List,” alongside China, Indonesia, Russia, Argentina, and Venezuela.