June 30, 2026: Thimphu Bhutan
The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment (MoICE), in collaboration with key institutional partners, celebrated a historic milestone for Bhutan with the formal launch of the nation’s first registered National Geographical Indication (GI) products. Following the establishment of the National GI System in 2025, four unique local products have been officially registered: Bumthang Yathra, Bumthang Honey, Dhur-Tandingang Gontho (Wholegrain Buckwheat Flour), and Merak-Sakteng Zoetey.
This initiative bridges intellectual property protection with rural livelihoods, ensuring that the traditional knowledge and collective efforts of Bhutanese communities are legally safeguarded. Managed by dedicated local cooperatives and supported by multi-sectoral task forces, the GI system aims to assure consumers of product authenticity, traceability, and high quality.
As Bhutan transitions from registration to commercialization, this milestone lays the groundwork for enhanced national branding, value-added products, and long-term economic development for rural communities.
