CP Ram's New Basil Varieties Protected Under Thai Plant Variety Law; Farmers Can Still Grow and Sell

Key summary

Natt Mongkolnavin, a social data and strategy analyst, clarified legal details regarding the registration of four new basil varieties (Kaeo Juri 01–04) by CP Ram Co., Ltd. under Thailand's Plant Variety Protection Act B.E. 2542. The law protects only the propagation material (seeds and seedlings) of these specific new varieties for a maximum of 12 years, not the leaves or culinary use. Farmers are permitted to grow and consume the plants at home but cannot commercially propagate seeds to compete with the rights holder. Natural cross-pollination does not constitute infringement. The report highlights concerns about corporate control over upstream supply chains and suggests community seed banks as a strategic solution.