The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has added Mexico to its Priority Watch List in its annual Special 301 Report, citing ongoing issues with intellectual property (IP) enforcement. This designation highlights concerns over trademark counterfeiting and insufficient protection of pharmaceutical-related IP.
Mexico’s move from the Watch List to the Priority Watch List reflects unresolved challenges, particularly in implementing the intellectual property provisions of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The USTR report evaluates over 100 trading partners, identifying those that fail to adequately protect U.S. IP rights. Along with Mexico, countries like China, India, Russia, Venezuela, and others are included on the Priority Watch List.
The report serves as a warning, signaling that these countries must address IP concerns to avoid potential trade enforcement actions. The USTR emphasized that international trade partners must take stronger action to protect intellectual property, which is vital to the global economy.
Mexico’s inclusion on the list comes at a critical time, with ongoing trade negotiations and the recent suspension of U.S. tariffs under President Trump’s administration. As the U.S. continues to focus on stronger IP enforcement, countries like Mexico face increased scrutiny. If these issues remain unresolved, they could face further trade consequences in the future.
This report underscores the importance of effective IP protection in global trade relations. As the U.S. continues to address IP enforcement, countries on the Priority Watch List must take steps to improve their IP protection or risk further economic and trade repercussions.
