Concerns Raised Over Foreign Ownership of Thai Plant Varieties
Activist Bunravee has called for government intervention to prevent foreign entities from using nominees to register intellectual property rights over local crops like holy basil.
According to a report by Matichon Online, activist Bunravee has publicly demanded that the government take action to protect Thai agricultural heritage, specifically citing the risk of foreign entities using nominee structures to register intellectual property rights for local plant varieties. The campaign, highlighted by the slogan 'Bring back our holy basil,' expresses concern that common Thai crops—such as holy basil, cucumbers, and chili peppers—could be subject to restrictive plant variety protection registrations.
Bunravee has formally urged Minister of Industry Suriya Juangroongruangkit to launch an immediate investigation into these practices. The core concern is that foreign capital might exploit legal loopholes to gain control over indigenous plant genetics, potentially impacting local farmers and the accessibility of traditional ingredients.
For residents and travelers, this issue highlights ongoing debates regarding food sovereignty and the protection of Thai agricultural identity. While the call for an investigation is clear, the extent of current foreign registrations and the government's specific regulatory response remain to be confirmed. Observers are waiting to see if the Ministry of Industry will initiate a formal inquiry into these allegations of nominee-based intellectual property claims.
