Thailand Urges Franchises to Protect Intellectual Property
Thailand's Department of Intellectual Property urges franchise businesses to register trademarks and protect proprietary systems as the sector expands rapidly, warning that proper IP management prevents counterfeiting and unauthorized opera
Thailand's Department of Intellectual Property is warning franchise businesses to urgently register and protect their intellectual property as the sector continues to grow rapidly. According to Department Director Oramont Saupthaweethum, Thailand's franchise business is worth over 300,000 billion baht and is a popular expansion model for entrepreneurs seeking to grow their brands quickly. However, franchising involves more than just licensing a business name or opening branches—it requires proper protection of trademarks, production formulas, management systems, and business knowledge that form the core value and competitive advantage of the business. Without proper protection and management, businesses risk counterfeit operations, unauthorized use of rights, and future disputes.
Proper intellectual property management strengthens brand value, builds confidence among franchisees and investors, and ensures standardized expansion. Before launching a franchise system, businesses should prepare in six key areas: (1) Check for name and trademark similarity using AI Image Search and Trademark Checker tools on the Department's website to reduce the risk of infringing others' marks; (2) Register trademarks for legal protection—the Department now offers fast-track service for businesses that need urgent protection; (3) Register trademark license agreements to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties; (4) Draft franchise agreements that clearly define rights, duties, and conditions; (5) Register patents or utility patents if the business has developed innovations, products, or manufacturing processes; and (6) Establish trade secret protection measures to prevent unauthorized use of business knowledge.
The Department is ready to advise and support businesses of all sizes, particularly SMEs, in leveraging intellectual property as a tool for value creation and competitive advantage. Entrepreneurs can request free intellectual property consulting through the IP Consulting Center (IPAC) at the Department of Intellectual Property, Ministry of Commerce, or call the hotline 1368 for guidance on protecting, utilizing, and managing intellectual property.
