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GI: New Framework for International Geographical Indication Registration

Introduction:

Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) has released a draft ministerial regulation outlining the procedures for registering foreign Geographical Indications (GIs) under international agreements. This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing the protection of GI products and fostering international cooperation in intellectual property rights. The regulation is currently open for public consultation, inviting stakeholders to provide feedback before its formal enactment.

Purpose and Scope:

The proposed ministerial regulation establishes a legal and procedural framework for registering foreign GIs in Thailand through mutual exchange agreements. It is grounded in the authority provided by the Geographical Indications Protection Act B.E. 2546 (2003), specifically referencing Sections 4, 9, 10, 15, 16, 18, and 19.

The ministerial regulation applies exclusively to GI registrations conducted under international agreements where Thailand and its counterpart mutually recognize and exchange lists of registered GIs. It also covers cases where such agreements are already binding but require additional GI registrations.

red and blue plastic pack

Key Provisions:

1. Definitions and Applicability

  • “Application” refers to a request for GI registration submitted under an international agreement.
  • “International Agreement” includes treaties or arrangements where GI protection is a key component.
  • The ministerial regulation becomes effective from the date specified in the Royal Gazette.

2. Application Process:

  • Applications must be submitted electronically via the DIP’s system or designated email.
  • Required information includes:
    • Name of the GI
    • Product category
    • Applicant details
    • Country of origin
    • Product description
    • Geographical area definition
    • Link between the product and its geographical origin
  • Applications may be submitted in Thai or English, with Thai translations for key sections if submitted in English.
  • No application fee is required under this ministerial regulation.

3. Publication and Opposition:

  • Accepted applications will be published with detailed information including registration number, product details, and origin.
  • Oppositions must be submitted electronically, and applicants may respond through designated formats.

4. Registration and Record-Keeping:

  • Registration numbers will be issued from the date the international agreement takes effect.
  • The GI registry will include comprehensive details about the product, origin, and geographical linkage.

5. Appeals and Dispute Resolution:

  • Applicants may appeal decisions through a representative residing in Thailand.
  • Appeals are submitted to the Geographical Indication Committee.

6. Unsuccessful Negotiations:

  • If international negotiations fail, the application is considered withdrawn, and relevant parties are notified.

7. Communication Protocol:

  • All official correspondence will be routed through the negotiating partner.
  • After 30 days of dispatch, communications are deemed received unless related to appeals.

Implications for Stakeholders:

This ministerial regulation simplifies and formalizes the process for foreign GI registration in Thailand, promoting transparency and efficiency. It also aligns Thailand’s GI framework with international standards, potentially boosting trade and protecting cultural heritage.

Producers, exporters, and legal representatives involved in GI products should closely review the draft and consider submitting comments to ensure their interests are represented.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the public consultation to shape the final version of ministerial regulation.
  • Thailand is introducing a structured process for registering foreign GIs under international agreements.
  • Applications are streamlined, fee-exempt, and submitted electronically.
  • The regulation enhances transparency in publication, opposition, and appeals.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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Proposed Amendments to the Copyright Act for WPPT Accession

Introduction:

On May 27, 2025, the Thai Cabinet convened to discuss key legislative proposals, including the Ministry of Commerce’s draft amendment to the Copyright Act B.E. 2537 (1994) and Thailand’s prospective accession to the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty (WPPT). These proposals stem from a survey conducted by the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP), which evaluated the effectiveness of Thailand’s existing copyright framework in meeting global standards. This article outlines the survey’s key findings, the rationale for the proposed amendments, and their significance for Thailand’s intellectual property landscape.

Survey Findings:

The DIP’s survey, conducted to assess the alignment of Thailand’s Copyright Act with international intellectual property obligations, highlighted several deficiencies in the current legal framework. Key findings include:

  1. Inadequate Protection for Performers’ Rights: The existing Copyright Act provides limited protections for performers, particularly concerning their moral and economic rights over audiovisual performances and sound recordings. The WPPT requires robust safeguards, such as the right to authorize or prohibit the reproduction, distribution, and communication of performances to the public, which are not fully addressed in the current Copyright Act.
  2. Insufficient Phonogram Producer Protections: The survey identified gaps in protections for phonogram producers, such as the right to control the commercial exploitation of sound recordings, including digital distribution and broadcasting. These gaps hinder Thailand’s compliance with WPPT standards, which emphasize equitable remuneration for producers.
  3. Digital Environment Challenges: With the rise of digital platforms, the survey underscored the need for updated provisions to address online piracy, unauthorized streaming, and digital reproduction of copyrighted works. The current Copyright Act lacks comprehensive measures to tackle these modern challenges, necessitating alignment with WPPT’s provisions for digital rights management.
  4. Economic and International Implications: The survey emphasized that non-compliance with WPPT standards could limit Thailand’s participation in global intellectual property frameworks, impacting trade negotiations, particularly with partners like the United States, as evidenced by the proposed Thailand Intellectual Property Work Plan with the USTR.
patented vintage cameras placed on table

Proposed Amendments:

The Ministry of Commerce’s draft amendment to the Copyright Act aims to address these shortcomings by:

  • Expanding protections for performers, granting them exclusive rights over their performances, including fixation, reproduction, and digital dissemination, in line with WPPT Articles 6–10.
  • Strengthening phonogram producers’ rights, ensuring fair remuneration and control over commercial uses of sound recordings, as outlined in WPPT Articles 11–14.
  • Introducing provisions to combat digital piracy and unauthorized use of copyrighted materials online, aligning with WPPT’s emphasis on technological protection measures.
  • Facilitating Thailand’s accession to the WPPT, enabling integration into the global intellectual property framework, and supporting compliance with the TRIPS Agreement.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Modernization of Copyright Law: The proposed amendments address critical gaps in Thailand’s Copyright Act, particularly in protecting performers and phonogram producers in the digital age.
  2. Global Alignment: Accession to the WPPT will strengthen Thailand’s position in international intellectual property frameworks, enhancing trade relations and compliance with global standards.
  3. Economic Benefits: Enhanced protections will incentivize creative industries, boost economic contributions from intellectual property, and attract foreign investment.
  4. Digital Adaptation: The amendments will equip Thailand to address modern challenges like online piracy, ensuring a secure environment for digital content creation and distribution.

By implementing these changes, Thailand is poised to strengthen its intellectual property regime, support its creative economy, and fulfill its international commitments.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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Intellectual Property Work Plan: Advancing Protections for Global Compliance

Introduction:

On May 27, 2025, Thailand’s Cabinet convened to discuss significant legislative proposals, including a draft amendment to the Copyright Act B.E. 2537 (1994) and the country’s prospective accession to the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty (WPPT). These initiatives, spearheaded by the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) under the Ministry of Commerce, are integral to Thailand’s Intellectual Property (IP) Work Plan, aimed at enhancing IP protections and fostering stronger international trade relations, particularly with the United States. A recent DIP survey identified critical gaps in the current copyright framework, prompting these reforms. This article explores the survey’s findings, the objectives of the IP Work Plan, and its broader implications for Thailand’s legal and economic landscape.

Survey Findings:

The DIP’s survey evaluated the effectiveness of Thailand’s Copyright Act in meeting global IP standards, particularly for WPPT compliance. The findings revealed several shortcomings:

  1. Limited Protections for Performers: The current law inadequately safeguards performers’ moral and economic rights, especially for audiovisual performances and sound recordings, falling short of international requirements.
  2. Insufficient Phonogram Producer Rights: Protections for phonogram producers, such as control over digital distribution and broadcasting, are limited, hindering equitable remuneration.
  3. Challenges in the Digital Environment: The rise of digital platforms has exposed weaknesses in addressing online piracy and unauthorized digital reproduction, necessitating updated legal provisions.
  4. International Alignment Needs: Gaps in the current framework limit Thailand’s ability to fully participate in global IP treaties, impacting trade and economic opportunities.

IP Work Plan:

The IP Work Plan is a comprehensive strategy to strengthen Thailand’s IP framework and address international expectations. Key components include:

  • Legislative Reforms: The proposed amendments to the Copyright Act will expand protections for performers and phonogram producers, ensuring compliance with WPPT standards. These changes include granting performers exclusive rights over their performances and strengthening producers’ control over commercial uses of sound recordings. Updates will also address digital piracy through measures like content takedowns and enhanced enforcement.
  • Improved Enforcement: The Work Plan emphasizes coordinated efforts across government agencies to combat counterfeit goods and online infringements, including a system for rights holders to register trademarks and copyrights for better border protection.
  • Streamlined Processes: The DIP is implementing e-services and fast-track programs to reduce backlogs in patent and trademark registrations, enhancing efficiency and accessibility for IP holders.
  • International Cooperation: The Work Plan supports ongoing dialogues with international partners to address IP concerns, aiming to improve Thailand’s standing in global trade frameworks and secure economic benefits.
men wearing blazers writing on a wooden ledge

Strategic Importance:

The IP Work Plan holds significant implications for Thailand’s legal and economic future:

  1. Economic Growth: Strengthened IP protections will incentivize innovation in creative industries, fostering economic diversification and attracting investment.
  2. Global Trade Integration: Aligning with international treaties like the WPPT enhances Thailand’s credibility in global trade, potentially unlocking favorable trade terms and market access.
  3. Digital Economy Readiness: Modernized laws will equip Thailand to tackle digital piracy, supporting the growth of e-commerce and technology sectors.
  4. Enhanced IP Ecosystem: A robust IP framework will provide creators and businesses with greater confidence, promoting a vibrant creative economy.

Conclusion:

Thailand’s IP Work Plan, informed by the DIP’s survey, represents a strategic effort to modernize its intellectual property framework. By amending the Copyright Act, enhancing enforcement, and aligning with global standards like the WPPT, Thailand aims to strengthen its IP regime and support its economic objectives. These reforms will foster innovation, enhance trade relations, and position Thailand as a leader in intellectual property protection in the region.

Key Takeaways

Creative Economy Support: Enhanced protections will drive innovation and growth in Thailand’s creative and digital sectors.

Modernized Copyright Framework: The proposed amendments address gaps in protections for performers and phonogram producers, aligning with WPPT requirements.

Stronger Enforcement: Coordinated efforts will combat digital piracy and counterfeit goods, enhancing IP protection.

Global Alignment: The Work Plan supports Thailand’s integration into international IP frameworks, boosting trade and economic opportunities.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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Thailand’s 2025 Special 301 Report on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement Released

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has published its 2025 Special 301 Report, which assesses the adequacy and effectiveness of intellectual property rights (IPR) protection and enforcement among U.S. trading partners. This comprehensive annual evaluation covers more than 100 countries, examining various aspects including patent and copyright protections, trademark enforcement, anti-piracy measures, and counterfeit goods prevention.

Thailand maintains its position on the USTR’s Watch List (WL) in the 2025 report. Nevertheless, the USTR acknowledges Thailand’s sustained and systematic efforts to strengthen its IPR protection and enforcement framework. Several significant developments have been recognized:

  1. Proposed Amendments to the Patent Act (December 2024): These amendments aim to modernize and streamline patent registration processes, address patent backlogs, reduce processing time and costs, and align Thailand’s intellectual property framework with international standards, particularly the Hague Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Industrial Designs.
  2. Draft Copyright Act (April 2024): This proposed legislation facilitates Thailand’s accession to the WIPO Performance and Phonograms Treaty (WPPT) and aligns Thailand’s copyright law with international standards. The draft places particular emphasis on strengthening the rights of performers and phonogram producers in the digital environment.
  3. Enhanced Offline IP Enforcement: The Department of Intellectual Property (DIP), in collaboration with Thai police and customs authorities, has demonstrated significant improvement in seizing counterfeit and pirated goods. Strategic enforcement actions—including warehouse raids and lease terminations for tenants facing IP violation charges at major retail centers such as MBK Center—reflect Thailand’s commitment to combating infringement.
red dot lights on black surface

Despite these advancements, the USTR highlights ongoing concerns regarding online IP enforcement. Thailand is encouraged to reform its regulatory and enforcement framework to address digital piracy more effectively. The report notes that criminal proceedings against online infringers remain protracted, and when convictions are secured, penalties are often insufficiently stringent to serve as effective deterrents. Recommended improvements include streamlining enforcement procedures and strengthening penalties to correspond with the severity and scale of online violations.

Thailand’s continued placement on the USTR’s Watch List indicates both the progress made and the challenges that remain in strengthening its IP regime. While recent legislative reforms and offline enforcement initiatives demonstrate meaningful advancement, more robust measures, particularly in the digital domain, are essential. Implementing reforms that enable prompt and deterrent enforcement against online piracy will not only help meet USTR expectations but also promote innovation, creativity, and international confidence in Thailand’s intellectual property system.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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Patent: A Comprehensive Reform for Modernizing Patent Registration

Introduction

Thailand’s current Patent Act, enacted in 1979 (B.E. 2522) (“Act”), has been the cornerstone of the country’s intellectual property (IP) protection system for over four decades. However, with the rapid evolution of technology and global trade, the Act has become outdated and no longer aligns with international standards. To address these challenges, Thailand is proposing a significant amendment to its Patent Act, known as the Draft Patent Act B.E. …. (“Draft”). This reform aims to modernize the patent registration process, reduce time and costs, and align Thailand’s IP framework with international agreements, such as the Hague Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Industrial Designs.

This article provides an overview of the key changes proposed in the Draft, focusing on the prosecution processes for invention patents, design patents, and petty patents, and highlights the potential impact of these reforms on innovation and IP protection in Thailand.

The Proposed Prosecution Process for Invention Patents
The Draft introduces several key changes to the prosecution process for invention patents, aimed at improving efficiency and reducing delays:

  1. Revised Examination Criteria and Procedures: The criteria and procedures for preliminary and substantive examinations will be updated. These details will be outlined in the new ministerial regulation once the Draft is enacted.
  2. Shortened Timelines:
    • The initial examination period will be reduced to 18 months, leading to the first publication.
    • Applicants must request substantive examination within 3 years (down from 5 years) from the date of filing of the application.
    • Patents will be issued within 90 days of the second publication.
  3. Third-Party Observation: The Draft introduces a new mechanism allowing third parties to submit evidence if they believe the pending patent application lacks novelty. This can be done from the date of the first publication until the completion of the substantive examination.
  4. Elimination of Patent Issuance Fees: The Draft removes the patent issuance fee, reducing the financial burden on applicants.
modern library interior in ciudad de mexico

The Proposed Prosecution Process for Design Patents
The Draft proposes a more streamlined process for design patents, distinguishing it from the current system, which shares the same process as invention patents:

  1. Combined Examination Process: The substantive examination will be conducted alongside the initial examination, prior to the publication of the patent application.
  2. Shorter Publication Period: The publication period for design patents will be reduced from 90 days to 60 days. If no opposition is filed within this period, the patent will be granted.
  3. Elimination of Patent Issuance Fees: Similar to invention patents, the Draft removes the issuance fee for design patents.

The Proposed Prosecution Process for Petty Patents
The Draft maintains the existing process for petty patents, but introduces a few notable changes:

  1. Extended Examination Request Period: Interested parties may request a substantive examination within 6 years (instead of 1 year) from the date of publication.
  2. Elimination of Fees: The Draft removes the publication and issuance fees for petty patents, making the process more cost-effective.

Conclusion
The proposed amendments to the Act represent a significant step forward in modernizing the country’s IP protection system. By streamlining processes, reducing costs, and aligning with international standards, the Draft aims to foster innovation and attract foreign investment. The introduction of mechanisms such as third-party observation enhances transparency and fairness, while the shortened timelines for design patents demonstrate Thailand’s commitment to efficiency.

The Draft is currently under the first public hearing process, which will be ended on 31 January 2025. Stakeholders, including inventors, businesses, and legal professionals, are encouraged to participate in the consultation process to ensure that the final version of the Draft meets the needs of all parties involved.

The Draft is poised to strengthen the country’s position as a hub for innovation and intellectual property protection in Southeast Asia, paving the way for a more dynamic and competitive economy.

Key Takeaways

Cost Reduction: The Draft eliminates certain fees, such as patent issuance fees, making the registration process more affordable for applicants.

Modernization of Patent Registration: The Draft introduces significant changes to streamline and modernize the patent registration process, reducing time and costs for applicants.

Alignment with International Standards: The reforms aim to align Thailand’s patent system with international agreements, such as the Hague Agreement, facilitating global IP protection.

Third-Party Observation: A new mechanism allows third parties to submit evidence during the patent examination process, enhancing transparency and fairness.

Simplified Design Patent Process: The Draft proposes a shorter and more efficient process for design patents, eliminating redundant steps and reducing publication periods.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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Cyber Security: Thailand Strengthens its Cyber Defense

In a significant move to bolster its national cybersecurity infrastructure, Thailand’s National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has unveiled comprehensive guidelines for information system security assessment. Published in the Royal Gazette on November 11, 2024, these guidelines mark a pivotal shift in how the kingdom approaches digital security and critical infrastructure protection.

The announcement is at a time when nations worldwide are grappling with increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. This initiative demonstrates Thailand’s proactive stance in safeguarding its digital assets and critical infrastructure.

The Framework’s Foundation

The new guidelines are built upon the foundation laid by the Cybersecurity Act of 2019, representing a mature evolution of Thailand’s cybersecurity framework. At their core, these guidelines establish mandatory security assessment protocols for a broad spectrum of organizations, including government agencies, critical infrastructure operators, and regulatory bodies.

What sets these guidelines apart is their comprehensive approach to security assessment. Organizations are now required to evaluate not just their computer systems, but their entire digital ecosystem – including networks, programs, and data storage facilities. This holistic approach reflects a modern understanding of cybersecurity, where vulnerabilities can exist at multiple levels of an organization’s digital infrastructure.

a woman looking afar

Implementation and Organizational Impact

The immediate implementation requirement of these guidelines signals the government’s urgency in addressing cybersecurity concerns. Organizations falling under this framework must now integrate security assessments into their operational DNA, with reviews mandated at least every three years. However, the guidelines go further by requiring additional assessments whenever significant changes occur in an organization’s information systems – a dynamic approach that acknowledges the rapid pace of technological change.

Critical infrastructure organizations face particularly stringent requirements. They must establish detailed security assessment procedures and implement classification systems for their data and systems based on importance levels. This tiered approach ensures that resources are allocated appropriately, with the most critical systems receiving the highest levels of protection.

A New Era of Accountability

Perhaps the most significant aspect of these guidelines is their emphasis on accountability and documentation. Organizations must maintain detailed records of their security measures and regularly evaluate their effectiveness. This requirement creates a paper trail of security decisions and their outcomes, enabling better oversight and continuous improvement.

The NCSA, through its Secretary-General, has been empowered with significant authority to ensure effective implementation. This includes the power to issue additional directives, clarify requirements, and make binding decisions on any implementation disputes. This centralized authority structure aims to ensure consistent application of the guidelines across different sectors.

Looking Forward

The introduction of these guidelines represents more than just a regulatory change – it signals Thailand’s commitment to creating a robust digital infrastructure capable of meeting modern cybersecurity challenges. By establishing clear standards and accountability measures, Thailand is positioning itself as a leader in regional cybersecurity governance.

For organizations affected by these guidelines, the path forward involves significant adjustments to their security protocols and organizational processes. The requirement for regular assessments and documentation will necessitate new workflows and possibly additional resources dedicated to cybersecurity compliance.

red dot lights on black surface

The Broader Impact

These guidelines will likely have ripple effects beyond their immediate scope. Private sector organizations not directly covered by the regulations may choose to adopt similar frameworks voluntarily, recognizing them as best practices in cybersecurity management. This could lead to an overall elevation of cybersecurity standards across Thailand’s digital landscape.

Furthermore, the emphasis on regular reviews and updates acknowledges the dynamic nature of cyber threats. By building flexibility and regular assessment requirements into the framework, Thailand has created a living document that can evolve alongside emerging security challenges.

As nations worldwide grapple with cybersecurity challenges, Thailand’s comprehensive approach provides a potential model for other countries looking to strengthen their digital defenses. The success of these guidelines could influence regional cybersecurity policies and contribute to the development of international cybersecurity standards.

The true test of these guidelines will lie in their implementation and the ability of organizations to meet their requirements effectively. However, their introduction marks a significant step forward in Thailand’s journey toward a more secure digital future.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Strategic Implementation
    • Immediate enforcement following the Royal Gazette publication
    • Mandatory security assessments every three years minimum
    • Additional assessments are required after significant system changes
    • Comprehensive coverage of digital infrastructure including systems, networks, and data
  2. Organizational Requirements
    • Mandatory risk assessments for government agencies and critical infrastructure
    • Implementation of data and system classification frameworks
    • Regular monitoring and documentation of security measures
    • Development of detailed security assessment procedures
  3. Governance Structure
    • NCSA Secretary-General granted extensive oversight powers
    • Authority to issue additional directives and clarifications
    • Centralized decision-making for dispute resolution
    • Clear accountability chain for implementation
  4. Compliance Framework
    • Regular audit requirements
    • Documentation of all security measures
    • Alignment with national cybersecurity standards
    • Dynamic response to system changes
  5. Long-term Impact
    • Enhanced national cybersecurity posture
    • Potential influence on regional security standards
    • Framework for continuous improvement
    • Model for International Cybersecurity Governance

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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Thailand Prepares New Draft Cybersecurity Standards for Cloud Computing

Thailand is poised to enhance its cybersecurity framework with new draft standards for cloud computing security. The National Cybersecurity Committee has prepared these standards, which have already been approved by the committee and are now awaiting publication in the Royal Gazette.

This draft regulation, titled “Announcement of the National Cybersecurity Committee on Cloud Cybersecurity Standards B.E. ….”, marks a significant step in Thailand’s efforts to safeguard its digital infrastructure while promoting the adoption of cloud technologies across various sectors.

The proposed regulations, set to be implemented one year after their official publication, are primarily aimed at government agencies, regulatory bodies, and organizations managing critical information infrastructure. These standards are designed to mitigate cybersecurity risks associated with the use of public cloud services, a growing concern as more entities shift their operations to cloud-based systems.

The decision to establish these standards stems from alarming cybersecurity statistics revealed by the National Cybersecurity Agency of Thailand (NCSA) for the year 2023. Educational institutions were the most targeted, facing 632 attacks, followed by other government agencies with 145 attacks. The private sector, particularly Thai-owned commercial enterprises, also saw a significant number of incidents, with 148 recorded attacks.

photo of a wireless keyboard and mouse

Under the proposed standards, organizations using public cloud services must adhere to guidelines that take into account the impact level of the data or information systems they handle. These impact levels are defined in a separate announcement by the National Cybersecurity Committee regarding the standardization of cybersecurity characteristics for data and information systems.

Notably, the draft standards mandate that personal data stored in cloud systems must be classified at minimum as having a “medium” level of confidentiality. This requirement underscores the government’s commitment to protecting individual privacy in the digital sphere.

The drafting of these standards aligns with Thailand’s “Cloud First Policy,” which was approved in a meeting of the National Digital Economy and Society Committee in December 2023. This policy sets out a five-year roadmap for cloud service implementation across various sectors, demonstrating Thailand’s commitment to digital transformation.

Once the standards come into effect, organizations affected by these new regulations will be required to submit summary reports of their compliance to the NCSA within 30 days of completing the implementation. This reporting mechanism aims to ensure accountability and allow the government to monitor the effectiveness of the new measures.

The introduction of these draft standards reflects Thailand’s proactive approach to addressing the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats. As cloud computing continues to play an increasingly crucial role in both public and private sectors, these measures aim to create a more secure digital environment, fostering trust and enabling the country to fully leverage the benefits of cloud technologies while mitigating associated risks.

As Thailand moves forward with its digital transformation agenda, these pending cybersecurity standards for cloud computing will play a pivotal role in shaping a resilient and secure digital infrastructure for the nation. The cybersecurity community and affected organizations are now eagerly awaiting the official publication of these standards in the Royal Gazette, which will set in motion the one-year countdown to their implementation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The draft standards are part of Thailand’s broader “Cloud First Policy” initiative.
  • Thailand’s National Cybersecurity Committee has drafted new standards for cloud cybersecurity.
  • The draft standards aim to reduce cybersecurity risks for government agencies and critical information infrastructure organizations using public cloud services.
  • The regulations will come into effect one year after their publication in the Royal Gazette, which is pending.
  • Personal data in cloud systems must be classified at least at the “medium” level of confidentiality.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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The Patent that Could not Be Challenged: An “Interested Person”

In the bustling industrial landscape of Thailand in the mid-1980s, a small rubber products manufacturer found itself entangled in an unexpected legal battle. The company, which had been producing various rubber goods for years, suddenly faced a roadblock when a competitor obtained a patent for a car floor mat design in early 1984.

The small manufacturer believed this patent was invalid. They argued that the design was not novel and that granting such a patent would unfairly restrict their ability to produce and sell similar products. Confident in their position, they decided to challenge the patent in court.

However, what seemed like a straightforward case of protecting their business interests soon turned into a complex legal journey through the intricacies of Thai patent law.

patented vintage cameras placed on table

The manufacturer filed a lawsuit, asking the court to declare the patent invalid and revoke it. They believed they had a strong case, citing various sections of the Patent Act of 1979 to support their claim that the patent was improperly granted.

But as the case unfolded, an unexpected hurdle emerged. The defendant argued that the plaintiff lacked the legal standing to bring such a case to court. They contended that only an “interested person” who had suffered actual damage from the patent’s issuance could file such a lawsuit.

The court delved deep into the meaning of an “interested person” under Thai patent law. They scrutinized the plaintiff’s complaint, noting that it only mentioned potential future harm – the inability to produce or sell similar products – rather than any actual damage already incurred.

Despite the plaintiff’s attempts to introduce evidence showing they had been producing similar products before the patent was granted, the court ruled this information inadmissible. It was deemed outside the scope of the original complaint and therefore irrelevant to the case at hand.

The legal battle wound its way through the Thai court system, from the lower court to the Court of Appeals, and finally to the Supreme Court. At each level, the courts grappled with the question of who has the right to challenge a patent’s validity.

In the end, the Supreme Court, decision no. 2670/2532, made a crucial distinction. While anyone could claim a patent’s invalidity in general discussions or as a defense in other legal proceedings, only an “interested person” or a public prosecutor could file a lawsuit specifically seeking to revoke a patent.

The court ruled that to be considered an “interested person,” one must have already suffered actual damage from the patent’s issuance. Potential future harm was not enough to grant standing in such a case.

This decision left our small manufacturer in a puzzling situation. They could not challenge the patent’s validity until they had suffered actual harm, but producing the product to demonstrate harm could potentially infringe on the very patent they sought to challenge.

The case highlighted the delicate balance in patent law between protecting innovation and preventing unfair monopolies. It also underscored the importance of understanding the nuances of legal standing before embarking on a lawsuit.

As the dust settled, the small manufacturer was left to reconsider its strategy, while the broader business community in Thailand took note of this significant interpretation of patent law. The case served as a reminder of the complex interplay between business interests and legal frameworks in the ever-evolving world of intellectual property rights.

anonymous female showing light bulb

Key Takeaways:

  1. Legal Standing: The case highlights the importance of legal standing in patent challenges. Not everyone can file a lawsuit to revoke a patent, even if they believe it is invalid.
  2. “Interested Person” Definition: Under Thai patent law, an “interested person” who can challenge a patent must have suffered actual damage from the patent’s issuance, not just potential future harm.
  3. Burden of Proof: The burden is on the plaintiff to demonstrate they have suffered actual harm to establish standing in patent revocation cases.
  4. Distinction in Patent Challenges: While anyone can claim a patent’s invalidity in general or as a defense, only “interested persons” or public prosecutors can file lawsuits specifically to revoke patents.
  5. Evidence Admissibility: Courts may not consider evidence outside the scope of the original complaint, even if it seems relevant to the broader issue.
  6. Potential Catch: The ruling creates a potential dilemma where a business might need to risk infringing a patent to establish the standing necessary to challenge it.
  7. Importance of Proper Pleading: The case underscores the need for careful and comprehensive pleading in patent cases, as courts may strictly adhere to the facts presented in the initial complaint.
  8. Balance in Patent Law: The case illustrates the ongoing challenge in patent law of balancing the protection of innovation with the prevention of unfair monopolies.
  9. Strategic Considerations: Businesses need to carefully consider their legal strategy when dealing with potentially invalid patents, as challenging them may be more complex than anticipated.

These takeaways provide additional context and highlight the broader implications of this legal case for businesses and legal practitioners in the field of patent law.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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Supreme Court Ruling on Geographical Name for PHOENIX

Fact Summary

The plaintiff filed an application to register the word “PHOENIX” as a trademark. The defendant issued an order refusing registration, stating that the mark lacked distinctiveness and was ineligible for registration under Section 6 of the Trademark Act B.E. 2534 (1991), as “PHOENIX” is the name of the capital city of the state of Arizona, USA, and thus considered a geographical name under Section 7(2).

The plaintiff appealed to the Trademark Board, but the Board upheld the Registrar’s decision, ruling that “PHOENIX” is a geographical name lacking distinctiveness under Section 7(2) and the Ministry of Commerce Notification No. 5 (1992).

The plaintiff then filed a lawsuit against the defendants at the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court (Central IP&IT Court), seeking to revoke the Registrar’s order and the Board’s decision, and requesting the Registrar to proceed with registering the “PHOENIX” mark.

judge signing on the papers

Court Decision

The Central IP&IT Court ruled in favor of the plaintiff, revoking the Registrar’s order and the Trademark Board’s decision, and instructing the Registrar to proceed with registering the “PHOENIX” mark.

The defendants appealed to the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court Analysis

The Supreme Court examined the meaning of “PHOENIX” and noted that while it primarily refers to a mythical bird, it is also the name of the capital city of the state of Arizona, USA.

Concerning the Ministry of Commerce Notification No. 5 (1992), which defines geographical names ineligible for registration under Section 7(2), the Supreme Court observed that “PHOENIX” does not fall under item 4 (capital city of a country) but could potentially fall under item 5 (other geographical names known to the general public).

However, the Supreme Court found that the Registrar and the Trademark Board failed to consider whether “PHOENIX” is a geographical name known to the general Thai public, as required by item 5. This omission was a legal error.

The Supreme Court dismissed the defendants’ claims that “PHOENIX” is a well-known city name due to American football and NBA coverage, as these claims were unsubstantiated in the Registrar’s order and the Board’s decision.

court of united states in washington

Key Takeaways

  1. The Supreme Court upheld the lower court’s decision, ruling that the Registrar and the Trademark Board erred by not considering whether “PHOENIX” is a geographical name known to the general Thai public.
  2. Geographical names may be registrable as trademarks if they are not known to the general public, as per the Ministry of Commerce Notification.
  3. Trademark authorities must thoroughly examine and provide reasoning for their decisions, particularly when invoking exceptions or specific criteria.
  4. The ruling emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive and well-reasoned examination of trademark registrability, taking into account all relevant factors and criteria.

This landmark decision provides valuable guidance on the registration of geographical names as trademarks in Thailand, clarifying the applicable legal standards and underscoring the need for thorough examination by trademark authorities.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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