The Kirum infusion patented in China

The year 2022 begins with a bang for Confirel. Indeed, a few days before the International New Year, the National Intellectual Property Office of the People’s Republic of China, after examination, issued the patent certificate for Kirum infusions and entered the patent data in its register.

The patent, which certifies the detoxifying virtues of Kirum infusions and protects both the product’s formula and its manufacturing and preparation methods, was initially granted to its inventor, Dr. Hay Ly Eang, founder of Confirel, in 2020 by the French National Institute of Industrial Property, which had officially registered the application in 2017.

Steps were then taken to have this patent recognized in other countries. To date, Kirum Herbal Tea is recognized and protected in 17 European and Asian countries. Obtaining the patent for the United States should take place shortly. This done, Kirum Herbal Tea will become the first and unique Cambodian product to hold an international patent.

“Bringing a detoxifying herbal tea to the Chinese market is a big challenge for both Confirel and Cambodia. The economic value as well as in terms of image is colossal for our country”, said Dr. Hay.

In his book, Beyond the Cambodian Storms, Dr Hay tells how, while walking in the Confirel plantation, in the IGP Pepper zone of Kampot, the idea for this Kirum infusion came to him: “One day, my gaze is drawn to the inflorescences growing on the plants. I think to myself that this could undoubtedly give something interesting in infusion. Back in Phnom Penh, I try the experience. Yes, it’s good, very good. Good for the taste and good for the health. The pharmacist that I am immediately distinguishes the medicinal properties of a plant. After analyzes and rigorous checks, [Hym] Piseth takes charge of codifying the production process. Thus was born our infusion of Kampot pepper which has been added to the products of our plantations sold under the Kirum brand. ” From a walk in a plantation to a product patented on the world market for its health benefits, it took time, but perseverance pays off when it is based on the spirit of innovation.