Scotch Whisky secures GI protection in Cambodia

Cambodia has become the latest country in which Scotch Whisky’s Geographical Indication (GI) has officially been registered, further securing its reputation and protection around the world.

A product with geographical indication is one whose origin and method of production is recognised as being integral to its reputation. Scotch Whisky’s GI states that it must be distilled using three ingredients (cereals, yeast and water), and matured in Scotland in oak casks for a minimum of three years.

Scotch Whisky joins Champagne in becoming one of very few overseas products registered as a GI in Cambodia. The Scotch Whisky Association’s Legal team works to secure GI agreements in all markets where Scotch Whisky is sold, as part of its remit to drive the best possible global business environment for Scotch by ensuring its legal protection. Cambodia is now one of over 100 other countries which have officially recognised Scotch as a Scottish product, produced according to traditional methods, and deserving of special protection.

Lindesay Low, Deputy Director for Legal Affairs at the SWA said:

“We are pleased that Scotch Whisky’s GI has now officially been registered in Cambodia. Southeast Asia is a market for Scotch Whisky that has seen strong growth in recent years, with huge potential to continue as knowledge increases around Scotland’s national drink. Securing GI protection is a significant milestone in ensuring that consumers know they are drinking authentic Scotch Whisky.”

Tina Redshaw, UK Ambassador to Cambodia, said:

“We are very pleased that the registration which will protect the geographical indication of Scotland's national drink has been concluded. GIs are a vital signifier of quality and reputation of a product and its country of origin. This announcement in Cambodia is an important step in creating a better environment for business through recognition of Scotch Whisky’s provenance."

Notes to editors

Geographical Indications (GI)

Only products that have a specific geographical origin and possess a quality and a reputation or other characteristic associated with that origin qualify for GI status. That means Scotch Whisky is recognised as a product that must be made in Scotland.

GIs were first formally recognised in the World Trade Organisation Agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights in 1994. All WTO members must protect a GI from misuse.

The Scotch Whisky Association continues to register Scotch Whisky as a GI in as many countries as possible.

For more information, please contact pressoffice@swa.org.uk, or call 0131 222 9200