USTR Special 301 Report 2026: India Retained on Priority Watch List

Intellectual Property Scrutiny: India Remains on U.S. Priority Watch List

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has released its 38th annual 2026 Special 301 Report, which evaluates the adequacy and effectiveness of intellectual property (IP) protection by U.S. trading partners. India has been retained on the Priority Watch List alongside China, Russia, Chile, Indonesia, and Venezuela.

Key Highlights of the Report:

• India's Status: India remains on the list due to ongoing concerns regarding IP enforcement, patent barriers, and trade secret protection.


• Vietnam's Scrutiny: For the first time in 13 years, Vietnam has been designated as a Priority Foreign Country (PFC), the highest level of scrutiny, potentially leading to trade investigations.


• Positive Changes: Argentina and Mexico were moved to the 'Watch List' due to significant improvements, while Bulgaria was removed entirely.


• Pharmaceutical Concerns: The European Union (EU) was added to the Watch List due to specific concerns regarding Geographical Indications (GI) and new pharmaceutical legislation.

For TNPSC and Economy aspirants, this report is essential for understanding 'Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)' and India's trade relations with the USA.