Cambodia Moves to Strengthen Plant Variety Protection and Align Legal Framework with International Standards

Phnom Penh, October 27, 2026: Cambodia is moving to strengthen intellectual property protection for new plant varieties and bring its legal framework in line with international standards, with the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) holding a consultation workshop on the draft amendment to the Law on the Management of Plant Varieties and Plant Breeders' Rights.

The workshop was presided over by H.E. Phok Sovannrith, Secretary of State at MISTI, and attended by representatives of relevant ministries and institutions, the Intellectual Property Association, technical experts, intellectual property agents and the private sector.

In his opening remarks, H.E Phok Sovannrith underscored the importance of a clear and effective legal framework in protecting intellectual property rights and promoting research, innovation and investment in the development of new plant varieties.

"A clear, appropriate legal framework that is consistent with international standards not only helps strengthen law enforcement but can also help drive research, the creation of new plant varieties and investment," he said.

As Cambodia's focal ministry for the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV), MISTI is working with relevant ministries and institutions to strengthen the national legal framework on the protection of new plant varieties in line with international standards and to promote innovation through intellectual property protection for new plant breeders.

The workshop also gathered input from stakeholders for an impact assessment study examining the benefits, costs and possible effects of the legal amendment. The consultation results will serve as a basis for drafting the amendment so that it is clear, balanced, implementable and responsive to Cambodia's practical needs.

Source: Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI)

https://www.misti.gov.kh/pressroom/news-and-events/dHCVN70A5Iks

Reported by The Khmer Today