The Department of Trade, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment (MoICE), signed a contract worth Nu. 3.959 million with M/s. Startup First for the “Feasibility Study for the Development of an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Samtse” on November 4th, 2025. The study will be carried out over the period of six months.

The detailed feasibility study will assess the economic viability, technical requirements, environmental and social impacts, and policy frameworks necessary for the successful development and operation of the EPZ. The study will also propose design layouts, institutional and regulatory frameworks, and operational models.

The contract signing ceremony took place at the Department of Trade Conference Hall in Thimphu.