Cambodia introduces online filing for patents, utility models, industrial designs
23 February 2025
Cambodia has recently made a major advancement in modernizing its intellectual property system by introducing online filing for patents, utility models and industrial designs. This digital platform simplifies the application process, enabling applicants to submit their filings electronically. It also plays a crucial role in Cambodia’s broader e-government initiative, which seeks to move various public services online to improve accessibility and convenience for both citizens and businesses.
David Haskel | Partner @ Abacus IP, Phnom Penh
“Two long-awaited and important digital initiatives recently went live in Cambodia,” said David Haskel, a partner at Abacus IP in Phnom Penh. “First, the patent, utility model certificate and industrial design databases are now online, and the patent gazettes were published as well. As public disclosure of inventions is a cornerstone of any patent system, this development was long overdue. While a first set of registrations has been uploaded, there remains a significant number that still needs to be processed. We hope that they will soon be up to date, allowing anyone to view the basic information on all patent, utility model certificates and industrial design applications in Cambodia.”
He added that the Patent Office also launched an e-filing system. “Previously, all applications needed to be filed in hard copy and in person at the Ministry. E-filing is a great improvement, saving time and expense, and also allowing parties to file during holidays and whenever the Patent Office might be closed,” he said.
In the case of digital protection and minimizing fraudulent filings, he said, “The interface for e-filing and IP databases uses the system established by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and is quite user-friendly. To ensure against fraudulent filings, the system is only open to applicants and their registered agents, who must apply for an account with the Ministry in person and provide the required documentation to authenticate their identity.”
- Excel V. Dyquiangco
