Bhutan is making progress in modernizing its trade framework with new regulations and digital systems

International Regulation

Bhutan's Ministry of Industry, Trade and Employment (MoICE) has announced a series of key notifications for the second quarter of 2026 that point to a profound modernization of its business environment. These measures include the implementation of a new digital system (IBLS) and the strengthening of its National Trade Facilitation Committee secretariat.


The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Employment is promoting digitalization and regulatory compliance to attract investment.

El Ministry of Industry, Trade and Employment Bután (MoICE) The company has initiated a series of regulatory and technological updates during the second quarter of 2026, aimed at optimizing the country's business environment. These actions, communicated through its official website, seek to align its procedures with international standards and facilitate operations for companies operating in the market.

The most recent initiative, announced on June 17, is the public notification regarding the work IBLS (IBLS System)Although their full functionalities have not been detailed, these types of systems are usually geared towards digitization of commercial licenses and permitsThis represents a significant step towards reducing bureaucracy and streamlining procedures for opening and operating businesses in the country.

Strengthening trade facilitation and intellectual property

Previously, on March 30, the Department of Trade (Department of Commerce), in collaboration with an international entity, launched a call for a national consultant for the Secretary of the NTFC (National Trade Facilitation Committee). This action underscores the Bhutanese government's interest in strengthening its main coordinating body for the trade facilitation, a fundamental pillar for improving efficiency in customs and logistics.

In parallel, the ministry has focused on protecting intellectual property rights. A notification dated March 27 referred to the entity's copyrighted works and related rights. Pro Touch BhutanThis demonstrates an effort to strengthen the legal framework that protects intangible assets, a key factor for the legal security of technology and creative companies.

The set of announcements is completed with measures in the labor and safety fields, such as the audit of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Notified on March 12, and the publication of results for management positions such as Head of the Labor Office. These actions project an image of a market undergoing comprehensive professionalization, encompassing everything from administrative digitization to compliance with labor and safety standards.

Timeline of Key MoICE Announcements (Q2 2026)
Announcement Date Key Initiative
17 June, 2026 Notification about the new IBLS digital system
March 30th 2026 Hiring a consultant for the NTFC Secretariat
March 27th 2026 Notice Regarding Copyright and Related Rights (Pro Touch Bhutan)
March 12th 2026 Notification Regarding Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Audit

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