India has retained its position on the United States Trade Representative (USTR) priority watch list, as revealed in a report released on April 29, 2026. This list evaluates the adequacy and effectiveness of trading partners’ protection and enforcement of intellectual property (IP) rights.
Alongside India, the report includes five other countries: Chile, China, Indonesia, Russia, and Venezuela. These nations are scrutinized for their IP protection measures, which the USTR deems insufficient.
Historically, India has faced criticism over its IP laws, affecting its trade relations with the United States. Previous reports have pointed to gaps in enforcement and legal frameworks as areas needing improvement.
Looking forward, the continuation of India’s presence on this list may influence upcoming trade negotiations. The United States Trade Representative findings could lead to diplomatic discussions aimed at addressing these IP challenges.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, May 2, 2026
Follow SouthAsianDesk on X, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business and current affairs from across South Asia.
