Uniformity of the patent policy in technology transfer in Thailand: To what extent can the Bayh-Dole Act concept be adapted for the Thai technology transfer system

This dissertation focuses on the transfer of technology from the public to the private sectors in Thailand. In order to enhance innovative technological activities, possible domestic technology transfer models are evaluated. Having a domestic technology transfer promotion policy which provides direction of emerging technology transfer activities will impact the growth of local technological development and economic competitiveness in Thailand. Presently, Thai research universities are very active in participating in technology transfer activities, and business enterprises interested in research and development ("R&D") are emerging. However, the existing laws that directly promote R&D and technology transfer activities in these sectors are very limited. In looking for a possible policy model, this thesis will look at the U.S. technology transfer system and its uniform patent policy known as the Bayh-Dole Act. It will examine relevant factors, such as the legal, social, economic, and institutional limitations that might affect Thailand's adoption of the Bayh-Dole Act concept. In doing so, this thesis is divided into six chapters. Chapter One provides the background of, and factors which impact, current technology transfer in Thailand. These factors cover a description of national R&D expenditures, the sector of R&D performance and patent profiles. Chapter Two introduces the U.S. Bayh-Dole Act. Technology transfer activities from federal funding agencies to industry before and after the passage of this Act are discussed, to understand the evolution of the U.S. technology transfer system. The pros and cons of the Act two decades after its implementation are discussed. Chapter Three introduces the available legal mechanisms that directly promote technology transfer activities in Thailand, particularly, the Thai Patent Act and Science and technology promotion policies in examining the sufficiency of promotion mechanisms. Chapter Four explores the experiences and constraints associated with technology transfer practice in Thai government and private sectors. Chapter Five discusses the possibility for Thailand to adopt the Bayh-Dole Act concept to its domestic technology transfer system. Finally, Chapter Six provides remarks and proposes recommendations at national and implementation levels to the Thai government.