The Ministry of Commerce in Cambodia is stepping up efforts, in collaboration with local communities and relevant government agencies, to secure geographical indication (GI) status for Koh Kong mud crab.

The move follows the first general assembly of the Koh Kong Mud Crab Conservancy Association (KKMC), held in Koh Kong province. The meeting brought together senior representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the World Intellectual Property Organization and local stakeholders.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Commerce on March 16, the assembly aimed to review and approve the association’s statutes, the draft GI specification book and its leadership structure.

In parallel, the ministry is drafting a national strategy for the development and promotion of Cambodian GIs for 2026-30. The strategy seeks to strengthen governance and legal frameworks, build the capacity of producers and associations, promote commercialization and enhance inspection and traceability systems to ensure product authenticity.

Kim Sokhon, secretary of state of the Ministry of Commerce, said that GI registration and collective marks have already delivered tangible benefits, including economic growth, cultural promotion, tourism development and support for local communities. However, he underscored the importance of robust governance and monitoring mechanisms to ensure proper use of these designations in line with established standards.

He expressed confidence that Koh Kong mud crab will soon achieve GI registration, supported by ongoing technical, financial and market access initiatives.

Sokhon also called on local authorities, development partners and the private sector to support the KKMC in safeguarding and promoting the GI. He said that such recognition should go beyond legal protection, serving as a strategic intellectual property tool for local economic development, poverty reduction and enhancing the global reputation of Cambodian products.

The association and its members are committed to strengthening the GI brand of Koh Kong mud crab to expand its market reach and attract more visitors to Koh Kong province.

Cambodia has increasingly leveraged GI status to elevate local agricultural products into internationally recognized brands. These products are protected for their distinct quality, reputation and characteristics that are intrinsically linked to their geographic origin. Notable registered GIs include Kampot pepper, Kampong Speu palm sugar, Koh Trong pomelo, Mondulkiri wild honey, and Kampot salt and fleur de sel.

- Excel V. Dyquiangco