Cambodian Commerce Minister Directs Koh Kong Provincial Commerce Director to Expand Geographical Indication Registrations

The Minister of Commerce of Cambodia, Ms. Cham Nimul, has instructed the newly appointed Director of the Koh Kong Provincial Department of Commerce, Mr. Khey Vuth, to strive to expand the registration of geographical indications (GI) for potential products. This directive aims to protect intellectual property and enhance added value. The instruction was given during the ceremony to officially take office for the new Director of the Provincial Department of Commerce of Koh Kong on August 3, 2026. The Minister further emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships between producer communities and the private sector, promoting the registration of geographical indications and collective marks, especially for agricultural and fishery products, enhancing the efficiency of public services, and continuously monitoring market conditions. Ms. Cham Nimul also highlighted the significant achievements of the Ministry of Commerce in implementing the government's "Pentagonal Strategy Phase I." These include reforming public administration and strengthening governance; promoting domestic trade; enhancing the added value and competitiveness of Cambodian products through the protection of intellectual property rights and the registration of geographical indications (GI) and collective marks; expanding international markets; integrating trade within regional and global frameworks; modernizing public services; connecting market information; and expanding digital service provision to facilitate business and investment, as well as promoting consumer protection, fair competition, and product safety. In response, Mr. Khey Vuth, the newly appointed Director, pledged to continue fulfilling his duties with a spirit of responsibility, professionalism, transparency, and accountability, contributing to the promotion of commerce, investment, and economic development at the local level, in line with the mission of the Ministry of Commerce and the vision of the Cambodian government. According to the Provincial Director, efforts will be made to research and discover new local products for GI registration, following the successful registration of Koh Kong Mud Crab GI. Ms. Chey Va, Governor of Koh Kong Province, affirmed that the provincial administration will strive for close cooperation with the Ministry of Commerce and the Provincial Department of Commerce in implementing programs to improve the business environment, attract investment, expand the market for local products, and strengthen the local economy. Ms. Chey Va further stated that the provincial authorities and relevant departments will continue to enhance cooperation between the state and the private sector, increase the efficiency of public services, utilize digital technology in service delivery, and contribute to the implementation of government policies, aiming to make Koh Kong Province a potential investment and trade destination. Article: Sereyvathana