Expert Interview: Insights from our IP experts – Thailand

Today, let’s meet Franck Fougere, our IP expert based in Thailand!

Franck Fougere is the founder and Managing Partner of Ananda Intellectual Property, a top-tier IP law firm in Thailand. Franck’s practice areas include trademark and patent prosecution, trademark strategy, copyright and patent litigation, anti-counterfeit strategy, and IP contracts.

“Southeast Asia stands at the crossroads of global commerce — a dynamic hub where European companies find both opportunity and security. As ASEAN strengthens its IP frameworks and aligns with global standards, it provides European investors with the confidence to safeguard their ideas while expanding in manufacturing, technology, and digital sectors. The region’s strategic location, rising middle class, and pro-business policies make it not only a gateway to Asia’s vast markets but also a cornerstone for sustainable, innovation-driven partnerships between Europe and the East,” said Franck.

Franck is one of the many professionals in the South-East Asia IP expert network, supporting international SMEs across the region.

Q1: From your experience, what are the main IP risks or obstacles in Thailand that EU SMEs should be aware of? 

• Thailand operates a first-to-file system;
• Protection of IP assets is key in Thailand, due to proximity with China, the risk of being copied is still high;
• Enforcement of IP can be challenging, so best to secure a solid IP protection strategy;
• IP licenses must be recorded in Thailand, as unrecorded IP licenses may not be enforceable against third parties.

Q2: What are your top practical tips or advice for European SMEs regarding IP protection in Thailand? 

• IP Protection is essential in Thailand;
• Businesses should plan ahead and factor in potential delays when obtaining IP registrations.
• Finding the right local partner(s) for manufacture or distribution is often a main success factor, especially when confronted with local reality in Thailand;
• Ask for advice from qualified IP attorneys;
• Know the law, but more importantly, understand the practice and what you can expect in Thailand (e.g., enforcement, etc.)

Q3: Is there something SMEs often misunderstand or overlook when it comes to IP protection in Thailand?

Thailand has a strong e-commerce and social media market. European SMEs often overlook the need to monitor online marketplaces and platforms for infringement or counterfeit sales.

Discover our full network of IP experts across South-East Asia. 

Explore more insights on IP protection in Thailand, download the Thailand IP country factsheet.

If you have any further questions on how to protect your IP in SEA, contact us at expertsea-iphelpdesk [dot] eu (expert[at]sea-iphelpdesk[dot]eu).