This event marked the beginning of the process to develop and implement a national IP strategy to maximize the benefits of IP across sectors of the Bhutanese economy. The strategy will aim to support Bhutan’s goals for economic diversification and national development.
The process follows the WIPO Methodology for the Development of National Intellectual Property Strategies, which provides step-by-step guidance through the full lifecycle of a national IP strategy, from initiation to monitoring and evaluation. The process also examines Bhutan’s innovation capabilities and draws on the World IP Report 2024 methodology to ensure a strong analytical foundation.
Stakeholder Consultations for a Customized National IP Strategy
Over the course of the consultations, a diverse range of stakeholders from the public and private sectors came together to contribute insights and recommendations. Participants included representatives from DoMCIIP, the Royal University of Bhutan, the Royal Society for STEM, the Office of the Attorney General, the Bhutan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck Super FabLab, Druk Holding and Investments Limited, as well as key actors from the traditional medicine, cultural expression, cultural heritage, tourism, film and other creative sectors.
Discussion centered around the role of IP in priority sectors in Bhutan including traditional medicine, traditional cultural expressions, and emerging research in medicine, environmental science and social sciences, as well as agricultural products. Stakeholders also emphasized the importance of raising IP awareness and building the capacity of Bhutan’s SMEs and cottage industry stakeholders to protect and enforce IP.
Aligning IP Strategy with National Development Goals
In a meeting with H.E. Mr. Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Employment, participants discussed Bhutan’s economic transformation goals as set forth in Bhutan’s 21st Century Economic Roadmap. The Minister highlighted the enabling role of the National IP Strategy in achieving national development goals.
Next Steps
The next phase of the project will involve a comprehensive diagnostic of Bhutan’s IP and innovation ecosystem. This diagnostic phase will serve as the factual basis for defining the national IP strategy’s objectives and action plans.