USIJ hailed the release of the 2026 Special 301 Report as one of the most significant editions in the program’s history. For the first time, USTR dedicated a standalone section to Intellectual Property and Standards, directly addressing the foreign tactics—including overbroad anti-suit injunctions, worldwide rate-setting by foreign courts, and categorical denials of injunctive relief—that have systematically undervalued U.S. standard-essential patents.
USIJ also strongly supported USTR’s defense of injunctive relief and its decision to place the European Union on the Watch List, citing concerns over the EU General Pharmaceutical Legislation, geographical indication abuses, and digital copyright issues.
“This Report puts the world on notice,” said Executive Director Chris Israel. “USTR has correctly identified that American innovation leadership, economic competitiveness, and national security are threatened by foreign actions that undermine the enforcement of U.S. patent rights.”
USIJ urges the Administration to translate the Report’s findings into concrete enforcement action through bilateral negotiations, Section 301 investigations, and coordinated action across USTR, USPTO, DOJ, and FTC.