Cambodia Moves to Expand GI Protection for Local Products

Cambodia’s Ministry of Commerce is pressing ahead to secure additional Geographical Indication (GI) recognition for local specialties, with the goal of strengthening the country’s presence in global export markets. “The GI status has increased the market demand for Khmer agricultural and fishery products, in turn contributing towards the income rise for small and medium farmers and their families,” said Veng Sothy, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce.

Sothy delivered the remarks at a Seminar on Intellectual Property Rights in Siem Reap, hosted by the Siem Reap Provincial Chamber of Commerce on September 15^th, 2025, with Siem Reap Deputy Governor Nak Neron in attendance. The ministry’s push aligns with Cambodia’s broader strategy to elevate the reputation of region-specific goods and protect producers through recognized origin and quality standards.

Eight Cambodian products currently hold GI status: Kampot Pepper, Kampong Speu Palm Sugar, Koh Trong Pomelo, Mondulkiri Wild Honey, Kampot-Kep Salt, Kampot-Kep Salt Flower, Takeo Lobster, and Siem Reap Prahok. The Koh Kong Mud Crab is among the products now awaiting GI recognition, underscoring a widening pipeline of candidates poised to benefit from stronger market positioning and consumer trust.

The Ministry of Commerce is pairing the GI drive with practical support for producers, including training on advanced packaging and product innovation, to help Khmer agricultural and fishery goods compete more effectively abroad. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is serving a coordinating role in the GI process, supporting consistent standards that enhance export visibility.

For Cambodia’s GI portfolio, momentum matters. Each new GI strengthens rural livelihoods, raises international awareness of distinctive Cambodian products, and helps safeguard authenticity in the marketplace. With additional applications advancing and producer training underway, Cambodia is positioning its GI-labeled goods—such as Kampot Pepper and Mondulkiri Wild Honey—to capture growing demand across regional and global markets.