The National Business Regulatory Reform Consultations 2026 have commenced with encouraging momentum, as the Ministry’s team, joined by officials from the Cabinet Secretariat, successfully completed the first round of consultations in Thimphu, Paro and Haa, beginning on 31 July 2026.
Over the past three days, the consultations brought together business communities, tourism stakeholders, Dzongkhag and Thromde administrations, and relevant government agencies in a series of open and constructive engagements centred on one shared objective: to build a business environment that is simpler, smarter and more responsive to the needs of entrepreneurs and citizens.
Unlike conventional consultations that seek views before action, these engagements begin by reporting back on what has already been delivered before identifying the next phase of reforms.
In his keynote remarks at each consultation, Hon’ble Lyonpo underscored the philosophy guiding the ongoing exercise:
“Bhutan is a small country with a great national vision. To realise the aspirations of His Majesty The King, we must continually ask ourselves a simple question: Are our rules making it easier or harder for our people to build, invest and create? From the very first day of this Government, the Hon’ble Prime Minister has emphasised improving the ease of doing business and delivering efficient, responsive public services. That commitment has guided our Business Regulatory Review since March 2024, built on a simple principle: every rule should have a purpose, every procedure should add value, and every public service should earn trust.”
The Ministry updated participants on the progress of the Comprehensive Business Regulatory Review, reporting that 151 of the 196 regulatory issues identified nationwide have already been addressed, while 31 issues requiring higher-level intervention are being pursued further. The consultations now provide an opportunity to assess the impact of these reforms on the ground, identify emerging challenges and sustain the momentum of continuous regulatory improvement.
The nationwide outreach also marks the official introduction of the Tourism Minimum Facilities Initiative (TMFI)under the TASHEL Framework for Destination Management. Through dedicated engagements with the tourism sector and local governments, the Ministry is introducing a collaborative national approach to progressively strengthen minimum visitor facilities, destination readiness and service standards across Bhutan’s tourism destinations.
Beyond the consultation halls, the programme has included visits to businesses, industries and tourism establishments, enabling the team to engage directly with entrepreneurs, understand their day-to-day realities and appreciate both the opportunities and challenges they encounter.
A notable feature of the consultations has been the positive acknowledgement by many participants of the progress already achieved through the Business Regulatory Review. Many businesses and stakeholders acknowledged the reforms implemented to date and expressed appreciation for the Government’s commitment to listening, acting and returning to engage once again. Their feedback has reinforced the importance of sustaining the reform momentum and continuing to work in close partnership with the private sector to deliver practical improvements on the ground.
Each Dzongkhag brought forward its own unique priorities. In Thimphu, around 31 issues were raised, reflecting the diverse needs of the tourism, trade and skills sectors, alongside broader concerns relating to infrastructure, digital services and market development. In Paro, participants raised 11 key issues affecting tourism, hospitality, agriculture, access to finance and business operations. In Haa, seven issues centred on human capital, tourism opportunities, digital inclusion and access to land for business development.
The strong participation, candid discussions and practical recommendations received during these first three consultations have set a positive tone for the nationwide exercise. They reflect a shared commitment by the Government, local governments and the private sector to continuously improve Bhutan’s business environment in support of enterprise, investment and quality employment.
Following Thimphu, Paro and Haa, the consultations continue in Chhukha and Samtse, where the programme includes further stakeholder consultations and visits to key industrial parks, dry ports, tourism facilities and trade infrastructure.
The Ministry extends its sincere appreciation to all participants for their active engagement and looks forward to continuing this important national dialogue across the remaining Dzongkhags and Thromdes.
The journey continues.
Together, we are building better regulations, stronger businesses and a stronger economy.
