The Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB) recognises Telecommunications and Broadband as important contributors to the socioeconomic development of the country. They have a vital role to play in enhancing competitiveness, increasing productivity and economic development, and promoting greater social inclusion to mention a few. Telecommunications and Broadband are the foundation on which “An ICT enabled, Knowledge-Based Society as a Foundation for Gross National Happiness” will be built.

Bhutan has witnessed impressive progress in ICT in the last decade. The Bhutan ICT Policy and Strategy (BIPS) 2009, which has guided the development of the sector is found insufficient moving forward especially in the areas of Telecommunications and Broadband given the fast changing nature of the sector. Thus, the Ministry of Information and Communications has framed and adopted the Bhutan Telecommunications and Broadband Policy which was approved by cabinet during the 59th Lhengye Zhungtshog held on December 9, 2014.

The Bhutan Telecommunications and Broadband Policy 2014 will guide and shape the development of telecommunications and broadband sector in the country in the coming years. It provides guidelines, principles and rationale on how to go about developing and promoting the sector. The main objectives of the policy are: connectivity for all, strengthening of rules and regulations, creation of conducive environment for private investments and competition leading towards an efficient market and affordable broadband and telecom services.