Kep Crab Set for Geographical Indication Registration in Cambodia

The Ministry of Commerce and the Kep Provincial Administration are preparing to register "Kep Crab" as a Geographical Indication (GI) product in the market. This initiative aims to ensure product quality and authenticity, thereby enhancing the brand value of Kep Crab. Relevant officials and experts are currently conducting detailed research on the history, characteristics, fishing techniques, and yields of "Kep Crab" to prepare the most meticulous dossier for registration. This was highlighted by Mr. Kem Sokhun, representing Her Excellency Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce, during a workshop on the implementation of the "Kep Crab" brand building and GI registration project, held at the small meeting hall of the Kep Provincial Hall on August 3, 2026. The event was attended by Mr. Ho Sivyong, Director-General of the General Directorate of Commercial Services; Mr. Ly Saveth, Deputy Governor of Kep Province, representing Governor Mr. Som Piseth; as well as leaders, technical officials, representatives of relevant institutions, community representatives, fishermen, and numerous trainees. In his opening remarks at the workshop, Mr. Kem Sokhun emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, the Seventh Legislature of the Cambodian Government has launched the "Pentagon Strategy" to guide Cambodia towards becoming a high-middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income country by 2050, focusing on five key priorities: people, roads, water, electricity, and technology. He further stated that in line with these directions, the Ministry of Commerce has developed the National Intellectual Property Policy 2025-2028, comprising 215 total activities, and is currently drafting the National Strategy for the Development and Promotion of Cambodian Geographical Indication Products 2026-2030. These strategies aim to strengthen governance, the legal framework, and the capacity of producers, thereby promoting commercialization and improving the traceability of product origins. Mr. Kem Sokhun, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Commerce, affirmed that the intellectual property sector plays a crucial role in economic development, job creation, attracting tourists, and improving the livelihoods of farmers and producers. To date, the Ministry of Commerce has received and registered over 150,000 trademarks, a testament to the growth of the intellectual property sector in Cambodia. He encouraged all participants to diligently absorb knowledge, provide feedback, and contribute to the draft dossier for "Kep Crab." This effort is expected to successfully enhance the value and widespread recognition of Kep Province's local products. Article by: Sorn Rath