Phnom Penh: H.E Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, has advocated for the promotion of local products, notably Geographical Indication (GI) products, within the tourism sector, emphasizing the need to tackle counterfeit products that endanger health and public safety. He made these remarks while presiding over a workshop titled “Combating Counterfeit Products That Pose High Risks to Health and Public Safety in the Tourism Sector,” held on June 17 at the Cambodia-Korea Cooperation Centre.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the workshop also saw the participation of H.E. Nov Leakhena, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Interior and Chairman of the Committee for Combating Counterfeit Products That Pose High Risks to Health and Public Safety, along with other high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Tourism, totaling 312 participants. In his address, H.E. Minister highlighted that counterfeit products not only jeopardize consumer health and safety but also erode trust in the tourism sector and tarnish Cambodia’s reputation.
The Minister called upon hotel owners, restaurants, food establishments, and tourism operators to adhere to laws and relevant quality and safety standards, particularly in food safety management. He also underscored the importance of maintaining clean and hygienic restrooms that meet quality standards.
Furthermore, H.E. Minister encouraged the promotion of Cambodian products, urging support for local farmers and producers to concentrate on quality. He also advocated inspiring tourists to purchase locally handmade souvenirs in Cambodia.