The Ministry of Health on Tuesday issued what it referred to as a “final warning” to private clinics that offer surrogacy services in contravention of a 2016 prakas on the treatment of human cells.

In May, the passing of a draft surrogacy bill was postponed from being sent to the Council of Ministers as it required further study.

A one-page pronouncement signed by Ministry of Health Secretary of State Te Kuyseang warned of legal action against all clinics that advertise such services in violation of the 2016 prakas on the management of blood, marrow, ovum and human cells and tissue.

The announcement said: “The ministry would like to warn for the final time all private clinic owners that violate the prakas on the management of blood, marrow, ovum, and human cells [and tissue].”

“There are some private clinics that currently advertise surrogacy services despite not being licensed by the ministry to do so, while the ministry awaits the laws on surrogacy and health service quality control [to be passed].

“If such private clinics continue their actions, the Ministry of Health will take legal action,” it said.

Ministry of health spokesman Ly Sovann declined to comment on Tuesday.