GMC Investment Boost: Bhutan’s National Assembly endorsed the Bhutan–Singapore double taxation treaty, clearing a key legal step for smoother cross-border business and strengthening the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) investment framework. Tourism Industry Growth: Bhutan’s Department of Industry reported a surge in licensed tour operators, with 172 new licenses issued between January and 21 May 2026, bringing active operators to 1,633; Thimphu leads with 1,381 active licenses. Infrastructure Accountability: MoIT faced questions on whether Thimphu’s infrastructure planning and design systems are strong enough for climate risks, as MPs cited recurring flooding, landslides and drainage failures. Urban Resilience Works: MoIT said Thimphu’s stormwater and roadside drainage upgrades are designed to cut recurring street flooding and overflow issues, based on master plans that factor in climate change. Human-Wildlife Relief Framework: MoENR is drafting a National Human-Wildlife Casualty Relief and Accountability Framework after wildlife attacks continue to cause injuries and deaths, with compensation still not fully operational. Green Finance Rollout: Bhutan’s updated Green Finance Taxonomy 2026/Addendum is set for phased implementation over three years to guide sustainable lending and reduce greenwashing. Hydropower Export Dip: Hydropower export earnings fell to Nu 201.2M in early 2026 Q1 despite higher generation, pointing to export revenue volatility. Hydropower Project Progress: DPR work has started for the 404MW Nyera Amari I and II Integrated Hydropower Project, a priority under the 2024–2029 plan. Co-ops and Farmer Groups Bill: The National Council deliberated the Cooperatives and Farmer Groups Bill 2025, aiming to improve registration, auditing, dispute settlement and accountability for rural economic groups. Digital Payments Context: India’s UPI hit record May levels (Rs 29.90 lakh crore; 23.2 billion transactions), reflecting regional consumer spending momentum that can spill into travel and services demand.