Agriculture Minister Orders Investigation into Holy Basil Patent Registration
Thailand's Minister of Agriculture has launched a one-week inquiry into the legality of CPRAM's patent registration for four varieties of holy basil.
According to a report by Thai Post, Thailand’s Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, has officially ordered the Department of Agriculture to investigate the registration of intellectual property rights for four specific varieties of holy basil (kaphrao). The registration, held by CPRAM, has prompted concerns regarding its legal validity and potential impact on local agricultural practices.
Minister Suriya has set a strict one-week deadline for the Department of Agriculture to conclude its review and determine whether the registration process complied with existing Thai laws. This investigation is significant for residents and those involved in the local food industry, as holy basil is a staple ingredient in Thai cuisine. Any findings regarding the exclusivity of these plant varieties could have long-term implications for farmers, food vendors, and the broader agricultural sector.
At this stage, the investigation is in its preliminary phase. It remains to be confirmed whether the registration will be upheld, modified, or revoked following the department's assessment. The public and stakeholders are currently awaiting the official results, which are expected to clarify the legal status of these plant varieties and ensure that the registration aligns with national agricultural regulations.
