Phuentsholing Tourism Boost: Bhutan is developing Phuentsholing into a cleaner, safer, more “experiential” gateway, with a new contract for tourism branding and a digital media platform to help visitors plan and learn about the border town. Wellness Tourism Push: Bhutan’s Department of Tourism has rolled out five wellness and recovery experiences—yoga/meditation, monastery meditation, hot stone baths (menchu), and Himalayan trekking—aimed at travellers seeking physical and mental reset. Hydropower Finance Move: Bhutan has introduced securitisation of hydropower receivables, a first for the Kingdom, as it looks to strengthen financing around its power exports. Tourism Rules Under Strain: Phuentsholing’s business community is calling for a review of the 24-hour Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) waiver zone, saying strict rules are turning the city into a transit corridor. Digital Booking Gap: A digital readiness programme found many Bhutan hotels—especially smaller ones—struggle with Google listings, social media access, and outdated websites, limiting online visibility and bookings. Tourism Market Link: Bhutan concluded its first Bhutan International Travel Mart (BITM) and announced the 2027 edition, signalling a shift toward structured international partnerships. Energy Growth Context: Bhutan’s economy is reported to have grown 30% since the start of the 13th Five-Year Plan, with hydropower still driving expansion and future capacity targets.