Cambodia Investment Review
The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI) has rolled out a nationwide product registration campaign designed to strengthen quality assurance, promote consumer trust, and improve market access for Cambodian businesses. Running through the end of 2026, the campaign introduces discounted registration fees and faster procedures aimed at both local producers and importers.
Strengthening Cambodia’s Quality Standards
Launched in Phnom Penh, the event drew more than 2,000 attendees, including representatives from 19 national producers, six importers, and three automakers. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring product traceability and compliance with Cambodia Standard CS001-2000 on Product Labeling — a framework that enables consumers to identify legitimate goods and manufacturers.
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“Product registration is not a new or additional burden to business,” said Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation Hem Vanndy. “This campaign is the Royal Government’s genuine effort to improve services and support the private sector. It directly responds to the needs of both producers and consumers in a rapidly evolving trade environment.”
The program also offers significant financial incentives: 10% off registration fees for businesses registering between 5 and 19 products, 15% for 20 to 49 products, and 20% for 50 or more products.
Simplified Procedures and Faster Turnaround
In line with broader government reforms, MISTI has revamped the product registration process to reduce costs and streamline documentation. Registration certificates are now valid for three years, and applications can be processed within five working days if all documents are complete.
Applicants are also permitted to test their products at any accredited laboratory, removing the previous requirement to use only the Institute of Standards of Cambodia (ISC). A single application may now cover multiple products — a move that aims to cut red tape and increase efficiency.
Over the past five years, the ISC has registered 9,535 products — a figure MISTI hopes to significantly boost through this campaign. To support participants, the ISC has created a dedicated team to provide technical guidance and consultation to producers and importers.
“We encourage businesses to apply directly through ISC,” Minister Vanndy emphasized. “Avoid unnecessary intermediaries who add cost without adding value.”
Promoting Accountability and Digital Transformation
The ministry’s long-term strategy focuses on promoting responsible business practices while advancing public-sector digitalization. Minister Vanndy called on companies to demonstrate “responsibility, integrity, and transparency” by formally registering their products, describing these principles as essential for both corporate growth and Cambodia’s broader economic development.
He also urged consumers to make informed decisions by prioritizing registered products — reinforcing the idea that purchasing power can help drive higher market standards.
MISTI has already begun publishing data on registered products on its official website, allowing consumers and distributors to verify legitimacy. By 2026, the ministry expects to complete its full digital transformation of the registration process, offering a fully online platform to further streamline applications and minimize human interaction.
The transition to a paperless, transparent system is expected to lower compliance costs, improve accountability, and foster stronger collaboration between government and industry — a step viewed by observers as critical for Cambodia’s path toward higher trade competitiveness and consumer confidence.
