Pre-Registration Gazetting Requirement for New Trademark Applications REF#6399

Cambodia’s Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) regime provides opportunity for individuals or companies to file notices of opposition against a trademark registration within 90 days from the date of publication of a registered trademark. The opposition may be filed on the grounds that a party has registered a trademark in Cambodia for which the opposing party considers itself to be the rightful trademark owner.

At present, although some marks applied online appear in an online database, an officially public gazetting of new trademarks occurs only after a successful registration, which provides other parties no opportunity to review the applied trademarks prior to their registration.

Companies need to have trust into Cambodia’s IPR regime, failure to enable such condition would bring about several challenges.

Firstly, it would discourage foreign investment, as businesses may be hesitant to invest in a country that does not offer adequate protection for their intellectual property. This can limit the growth of the Cambodian economy and limit opportunities for job creation.

Secondly, a perceived weak IPR regime would limit innovation and creativity in Cambodia. Without proper protection for their intellectual property, creators and innovators may be less likely to invest time and resources into developing new ideas and products. This can limit the country’s ability to compete in the global market and limit its potential for economic growth.

Thirdly, it would limit access to new technologies and products. Without adequate protection for intellectual property, businesses may be less likely to bring new products and technologies to the Cambodian market, limiting opportunities for consumers and businesses alike.

Overall, a reputable IPR regime is essential for the development of a competitive and innovative economy in Cambodia, and the failure to establish such a system could limit the country’s economic potential.