Singapore, Cambodia deal recognises patent applications in both countries

Singapore’s and Cambodia’s IP offices have signed an agreement that will mean both countries will recognise patent applications made at each other’s office.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) means that entities can apply for patents and industrial designs at the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) and have their rights recognised by the Ministry of Industry and Handicraft (MIH) in Cambodia, and vice versa.

The agreement is intended to complement the ASEAN Patent Examination Cooperation programme, a scheme set up in 2009 between nine nations including Singapore, Cambodia and Vietnam to improve patent searches and examination procedures across the region.

In 2013, the IPOS signed similar agreements with Germany, Brazil and Mexico.

Tan Yih San, chief executive of IPOS, said: “This enhanced tie between Cambodia and Singapore provides a strong platform for business communities to seek greater IP protection between the two countries.”

Cham Prasidh, senior minister of the MIH, said: “Our agreement on IP co-operation marks the continuation of strong relations between Cambodia and Singapore.”

The MOU was signed on Tuesday (January 20) but announced on Friday (January 23).