The Ministry of Commerce vowed on Friday to crack down on importers and distributers violating intellectual property rights in the kingdom, particularly trademarks.
The warning was posted on the ministry’s website, asking companies to abstain from using trademarks that belong to other entities or import products that are in violation of intellectual property laws.
“To protect property rights on registered trademarks, violators must immediately cease their illegal activities to avoid prosecution,” the statement read.
The ministry also asked the legal owners of trademarks to cooperate with authorities to prevent further infringements.
Op Rady, the director of intellectual property at the ministry, told Khmer Times that many companies trading across the border may unintentionally be infringing trademark law, as there is a pervasive lack of information regarding intellectual property legislation in the kingdom.
To remedy the situation, he said, the ministry has issued several letters to alert potential violators.
Seang Thay, a spokesman for the ministry, said they posted the warning on Friday to remind companies to be careful when importing products that may be in violation of the law.
“Those who own the trademark must cooperate with the authorities involved, including Camcontrol and the General Department of Customs and Excise, to prevent further violations. If we have a case against a particular company, we will file a complaint in court and take legal action,” Mr Thay said.
