Thai Ministry Investigates Private Patenting of Holy Basil Varieties
Minister of Agriculture Suriya Juangroongruangkit has ordered an investigation into whether CP RAM’s registration of four holy basil varieties complies with legal standards.
On October 24, 2026, Thailand’s Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, announced an official review into the registration of four holy basil (krapao) varieties by CP RAM Company. The move follows public concern regarding how private intellectual property claims over common agricultural crops might impact local farmers and the general public’s ability to grow and consume this staple herb.
Minister Suriya emphasized that protecting the interests of local farmers and maintaining traditional agricultural practices is a priority. He has instructed the Department of Agriculture to verify whether the company’s application for plant variety protection was conducted in full accordance with existing laws. The Department of Agriculture is expected to report its findings within approximately one week.
For residents and those interested in Thai agriculture, this investigation is significant as it touches upon the balance between corporate research and public access to traditional food sources. While the Minister has pledged to safeguard the rights of the public, the legal validity of the registration remains unconfirmed. The outcome of the Department of Agriculture’s review will determine whether the current protections stand or if further regulatory action is required to ensure that common basil varieties remain accessible to all. Further updates are expected once the official inquiry concludes.
