28/05/2026
The Department of Media, Creative Industry and Intellectual Property (DoMCIIP) under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment (MoICE), on 28 May 2026, organized a stakeholder consultation meeting on the first draft of the Copyright Act Amendment.
The consultation brought together representatives from government agencies, the Judiciary, Royal Bhutan Police (RBP), private institutions, media organizations, and individual stakeholders to review the proposed amendments and provide comments and recommendations. The Department had earlier conducted an initial consultation in January this year to gather feedback for incorporation into the draft amendment.
Bhutan’s existing Copyright Act was enacted in 2001. However, with the rapid growth of digital technology, online platforms, artificial intelligence, and digital media, there is an increasing need to update and modernize the Act to address emerging copyright issues and keep pace with international developments.
The proposed amendment aims to strengthen the protection of creators’ rights, support innovation and creativity, and promote the growth of Bhutan’s media and creative industries. It will also help create a more supportive environment for artists, musicians, filmmakers, writers, publishers, and other creative professionals in the country.
The Department will continue consultations with stakeholders to ensure that the amended Act remains balanced, relevant, and aligned with Bhutan’s national interests.