As someone deeply connected to Vietnamese culture and cuisine, I am finding the commercialisation of our national dish, 'Pho', by 'Pho Holdings LTD' to be disheartening.

The name 'Pho' represents more than just a dish, it embodies a unique culinary tradition passed down through multiple generations. Yet, a UK corporation, 'Pho Holdings LTD', has trademarked this common term, disregarding its cultural significance.

'Pho' is a ubiquitous term, known and cherished worldwide as a Vietnamese delicacy. It has become a generic name for a specific type of soup in international commerce and bears no distinctiveness associated with a specific enterprise. This is akin to trademarking 'pizza', 'fish and chips' or 'sushi' - it's an affront to the essence of shared global culture.

Trademark law fundamentally aims to avoid consumer confusion and protect the distinctiveness associated with specific businesses. In this case, however, millions are being denied the right to freely use a culinary term which belongs to Vietnamese and food heritage at large.

This situation hints at a broader issue of corporations taking control over cultural expressions, stifling diversity and monopolizing local economies. There have been a few cases where Pho Holdings LTD pursued action against smaller businesses. This Gentrification of food and culture is harmful.

For the protection of cultural traditions and preventing the exploitation of communal heritage, I urge everyone reading this to sign the petition. Stand with us and insist that 'Pho Holdings LTD' renounce their 'Pho' trademark.

After researching the extent of the trademark on UKIPO, the trademark 'protects' the following classes:

Class 29
Meat, fish and poultry and game; dried and cooked fruits and vegetables; prepared meals; prepared salads; preserves; pickles; dairy products; edible oils and fats; prepared products made wholly or principally of the above.
Class 30
Rice and noodle products; noodle soups; flour and preparations made from cereals; breads; pastries; sauces (condiments); snack foods; sandwiches and baguettes; prepared meals; soya; soya products; tofu; tea and other infusions; pickles and sauces; coffee and coffee substitutes; iced coffee; ready made tea and coffee beverages; prepared products made wholly or principally of any of the above.
Class 32
Beers; mineral and aerated waters and other non-alcoholic drinks; fruit drinks and fruit juices; syrups and other preparations for making beverages; prepared products made wholly or principally of any of the above.
Class 39
Packaging and delivery of food and drink products.

Please sign and share this petition as widely as you can.