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Akkaraporn Muangsobha

Partner

Practice Area:

Intellectual Property

LLB, Assumption University
JPO/JPR training course for trademark experts from Japan Patent Office, 2014

T +66 2656 1991
E akkaraporn.m@rajahtann.com

Akkaraporn is a Partner at R&T Asia (Thailand) Limited ("R&T"). He mainly focuses on the practice area of intellectual property ("IP").

Akkaraporn joined R&T in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience in IP law. Before joining R&T, he amassed over 15 years of expertise at various prominent law firms in Bangkok, advising both Thai and international clients on a multitude of IP matters. His expertise covers a broad spectrum of issues in this field, ranging from the intricate processes of trade mark registration, patent filing, and industrial design protection, to the complexities of copyright law. Additionally, he is skilled in providing strategic brand advice and legal guidance in relation to a wide array of IP and entertainment law.

Akkaraporn's experience spans industries, having handled complex IP challenges and managed extensive IP portfolios in the fashion, F&B, mobile phone sectors and provided legal counsel to major hotel chains internationally. In the automobile industry, his notable contribution in a matter involved advising one of the leading Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers on a trade mark dispute in Thailand where he successfully combatted a trade mark squatter who had registered trade mark in bad faith.

With his steady commitment to supporting SMEs in Thailand, Akkaraporn actively contributes to efforts that nurtures a deeper understanding of IP rights among these local businesses, and assists them in protecting their innovative ideas and creative works.

Akkaraporn's exposure to clients across the globe, including China, Japan, the USA, and Germany, among others, has endowed him with a comprehensive perspective on business cultures and legal systems, enabling him to offer well-rounded, culturally sensitive legal advice. Known for his collaborative nature, Akkaraporn works closely with his clients to align his legal advice with their business objectives. His fluency in Thai and English also aids in navigating different legal environments.

Notable Cases & Transactions
  • Provided expert legal counsel on industrial design prosecution related to mobile phones for a prominent Chinese technology firm, navigating complex intellectual property landscapes in Thailand.
  • Managed and strategised the trademark portfolio for a leading Luxembourg-based fashion conglomerate, ensuring robust brand protection in the Thai market.
  • Successfully represented a renowned US hotel chain in a trademark defense case against a competing Thai hotel in Phuket.
  • Led a trademark infringement enforcement action and subsequent litigation for an Israeli manufacturer specialising in advanced irrigation equipment.
  • Devised and implemented a comprehensive trademark strategy for a major US outlet mall, facilitating effective brand registration and protection.
  • Oversaw patent prosecution processes for one of the world's foremost glove manufacturers, adapting to the nuanced legal framework in Thailand.
  • Acted as the lead legal advisor in a passing-off action for a Japanese camping gear company, safeguarding their market position and intellectual property rights.
  • Directed the defense of trademark rights for a top-tier UK automobile company against infringement by a Thai entity.
  • Provided in-depth legal guidance on regulatory compliance for software licensing agreements within Thailand's technology sector.
  • Formulated and executed a strategic legal response to a trademark squatting issue in Thailand on behalf of a leading Chinese battery electric vehicle manufacturer.
  • Counseled a German technology enterprise based in Thailand on intellectual property right licensing for its subsidiary, ensuring alignment with local and international law.
  • Guided a Germany-based central heating product manufacturer through the intricacies of patent and industrial design prosecution in the Thai market.
  • Rendered legal advice on copyright issues to a Thai film production house, aligning their operations with prevailing intellectual property laws.
  • Collaborated with one of the world's top streaming service companies on a film production project in Thailand, providing legal consultation.
Memberships / Directorships
  • Patent Attorney
  • Member, International Trademark Association (INTA)
  • Member, Asian Patent Attorneys Association (APAA)