Basnet Attorneys and Law offers end-to-end legal compliance and high level regulatory advisory services for businesses and institutions operating in Bhutan’s unique legal environment. Our practice is grounded in statutory precision, regulatory foresight, and practical execution. We assist clients in aligning their operations with Bhutanese laws, sectoral regulations, and institutional requirements to avoid penalties, maintain operational continuity, and ensure long-term legal sustainability.
Regulatory Licensing and Approvals in Bhutan for International Businesses
We provide comprehensive advisory on licensing and regulatory approvals required for entry and operation in Bhutan. Our services include obtaining business licenses from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment (MoICE), trade clearances, sectoral approvals from authorities such as the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA), Royal Monetary Authority (RMA), and GovTech), and environmental clearances from the National Environment Commission (NEC). We represent clients at every stage of the application process, ensuring strict compliance with applicable regulatory timelines and documentary obligations.
Foreign Investment Compliance in Bhutan
Our firm advises foreign investors on structuring and securing approvals under Bhutan’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) regime. We support clients in navigating the FDI Policy 2019, Companies Act 2016, and sector-specific laws. This includes legal due diligence, preparation of joint venture agreements, compliance with minimum investment thresholds, local shareholding rules, and post-approval regulatory filings. We act as liaison between our clients and the FDI Division under the Department of Industry and ensure alignment with Bhutan’s investment restrictions and incentives.
Corporate Governance and Internal Compliance in Bhutan
We guide companies on strengthening internal governance structures in accordance with Bhutanese legal standards. This includes drafting compliance frameworks aligned with the Companies Act 2016, creating internal control mechanisms, whistleblower protocols, board procedures, and ensuring compliance with Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) guidelines. We help companies mitigate internal risks and prepare for audits or investigations by regulatory bodies.
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Financial Compliance in Bhutan
Basnet Attorneys and Law advises financial institutions, fintech firms, and designated non-financial businesses (DNFBPs) on compliance with RMA’s AML/CFT rules and obligations under the Financial Intelligence Department (FID). We conduct compliance audits, develop KYC policies, and assist clients in meeting reporting standards to mitigate the risk of regulatory sanctions. We also provide representation in cases of non-compliance or enforcement action.
Environmental and Sectoral Regulatory Compliance
We advise hydropower companies, construction firms, hospitality groups, and other regulated entities on environmental compliance, particularly under the National Environment Protection Act 2007, Regulation for Environmental Clearance of Projects (RECOP 2016) and Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Guidelines. Our services cover environmental permit applications, project compliance reporting, and legal risk assessments for environmentally sensitive projects.
Employment and Labor Law Compliance
We provide advisory to employers on ensuring compliance with the Labour and Employment Act 2007, rules on recruitment, termination, workplace safety, social security contributions, and dispute resolution procedures. We assist in preparing employment contracts, HR policies, and provide counsel on labor inspections, employee grievances, and regulatory audits by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment (MoICE).
Data Protection, ICT, and Digital Compliance in Bhutan
As Bhutan advances its digital transformation, we provide regulatory advice on compliance with the Information, Communications and Media Act 2018, BICMA-issued rules, and emerging data protection standards. Our services include reviewing data handling policies, ensuring cybersecurity compliance, advising on digital licensing, and managing legal risks associated with e-commerce, fintech, cryptocurrencies, OTT platforms, and other ICT platforms.
Strategic Compliance Audits and Investigations in Bhutan
We conduct compliance audits for both domestic and foreign enterprises to identify legal exposure and regulatory non-conformities. Our approach is proactive—designed to pre-empt enforcement action, regulatory penalties, and reputational risk. We also represent clients in regulatory investigations and provide legal defence in administrative enforcement proceedings.
Basnet Attorneys and Law is trusted by leading corporations, startups, NGOs, and financial institutions for precision-driven compliance solutions in Bhutan. We combine legal acumen with sector-specific expertise to ensure that our clients operate lawfully and competitively.
For consultations or compliance audits, contact us at
