US Places India on 'Priority Watch List’

• 10 May 2025

Source: TH 

The United States Trade Representative's (USTR) has placed India on its 'Priority Watch List' (PWL) under 2025 Special 301 Report, citing persistent challenges in intellectual property rights (IPR)  protection and enforcement. 

• PWL: It is a classification used in the USTR Special 301 Report that flags countries with major shortcomings in IP protection and enforcement, posing risks to US innovation and businesses. 
• Possible impact: 
  • The USTR may initiate formal trade investigations or impose sanctions if countries fail to demonstrate significant improvements. 
  • India’s placement on the priority watch list may impact trade talks with the US, but India maintains that its IP laws align with WTO TRIPS compliance. 

Read More: US Priority Watch List