The government clarified that the recent rule of certain imported goods requiring certification from the Bhutan Standards Bureau is to ensure quality standards and public safety. It is not to restrict trade or create barriers to doing business. The Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Employment shared this during the Question Hour of the National Assembly yesterday.
The rule applies to 15 regulated product categories, including cement, steel, pipes, roofing sheets, electrical wires and cables, and electrical fittings. Such products imported without the BSB certification can be stopped at entry points, denied customs clearance, or confiscated.
According to the Member of Parliament from Dramaedtse-Ngatshang, such a rule could disrupt supply chains, increase prices, create a market monopoly, and adversely affect small businesses and consumers.
Responding to the query, Minister Namgyal Dorji said the certification system is to protect consumers and maintain quality standards by discouraging inferior quality products from entering the market
“Our main focus is on public procurement because quality and standards are important for such projects. Whether it is schools, bridges, or other infrastructure, if we neglect the quality of products like bitumen or cement, it can pose serious safety concerns.”
He added that extensive consultations were carried out with business associations, importers, and relevant agencies before issuing the notification.
The notification was first issued in 16th June, 2025 and came into effect from this year, giving businesses more than six months to prepare.
“After 15 years since the establishment of the Bhutan Standards Act 2010, experts from BSB were sent to more than 160 factories across India to inspect and monitor production processes. For example, they studied how roofing sheets and electrical wiring are manufactured, how substandard products enter the market, and how quality products can be brought into Bhutan. Based on this, we established a proper system,” added Industry, Commerce, and Employment Minister Namgyal Dorji.
The government assured that enough certified brands of the listed products are already available in the market to prevent shortages or monopolies. Besides, they are closely monitoring their market supply and prices to avoid unnecessary price hikes.
Kinley Bidha/Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
