Cambodia offers intellectual property (IP) protection for trademarks, patents, copyrights, industrial designs, and geographical indications (GI) through registration with relevant ministries, such as the Ministry of Commerce (MOC).

A key principle is “first to file” for trademarks and patents, emphasizing the need for timely registration to secure rights. Enforcement options include civil and criminal proceedings, border control measures, and administrative processes, though the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) can only mediate, not sanction.

Types of IP Protection

• Trademarks
• Patents & Utility Models
• Industrial Designs
• Copyrights & Related Rights
• Geographical Indications (GIs)
• Trade Secrets & Unfair Competition
• Plant Variety Protection (PVP)

Main IP Legislation

• Trademarks : Law Concerning Marks, Trade Names and Acts of Unfair Competition (2002)
• Patents & Utility Models : Law on Patents, Utility Model Certificates and Industrial Designs (2003)
• Industrial Designs : Same law as above (2003)
• Copyrights & Related Rights : Law on Copyright and Related Rights (2003)
• Geographical Indications (GIs) : Law on Geographical Indications of Goods (2014)
• Trade Secrets & Unfair Competition : Covered under Law on Marks, Trade Names and Acts of Unfair Competition (2002)
• Plant Variety Protection (PVP) : Law on Seed Management and Plant Breeder’s Rights (2008)

Main IP Authority

The main authority is the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) under the Ministry of

Commerce (MoC).Web: www.cambodiaip.gov.kh/