On 30 April 2026, the Office of the United States Trade Representative published its annual Special 301 Report, providing a comprehensive assessment of intellectual property (IP) protection and enforcement across global trading partners. The report identifies jurisdictions with varying levels of concern and places them on designated monitoring lists, including the Priority Foreign Country, Priority Watch List, and Watch List categories.
The report highlights persistent global challenges in areas such as online piracy, counterfeit goods, trade secret protection, and enforcement consistency. It also underscores increasing concerns related to digital markets, including unauthorized streaming, e-commerce platforms facilitating counterfeit trade, and gaps in enforcement against illicit online distribution channels. In addition, the report notes the importance of effective border measures, criminal enforcement, and judicial remedies in addressing IP infringements.
From a regulatory perspective, the report signals continued U.S. focus on IP protection as a core component of trade policy, with potential follow-on actions including enhanced bilateral engagement, monitoring, or formal investigations under applicable trade statutes.
For trade compliance professionals, several practical actions are recommended. Companies should reassess IP risk exposure across key markets, particularly in relation to sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution channels. Strengthening internal controls over licensing, software usage, and third-party supplier compliance remains critical. Enhanced due diligence on e-commerce channels, distributors, and logistics partners can help mitigate exposure to counterfeit or infringing goods.
In addition, organisations should ensure robust recordkeeping, trademark and patent registration strategies, and alignment between legal, compliance, and commercial teams. Proactive monitoring of regulatory developments and engagement with industry associations can further support effective risk management.
Overall, the 2026 Special 301 Report reinforces the importance of integrating IP compliance into broader trade and supply chain governance frameworks.
Official special 301 report as published by the office of USTR:
https://ustr.gov/sites/default/files/files/Press/Releases/2026/2026%20Special%20301%20Report.pdf