Gelephu, a city in southern Bhutan, is undergoing a significant transformation with the establishment of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) as a Special Administrative Region (SAR). This initiative aims to create a global hub for mindfulness, sustainability, and innovation, guided by a unique legal framework.
Legal Framework of Gelephu Mindfulness City
On December 26, 2024, the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority (GMCA) enacted 'GMC Law No. 1 of 2024', known as the Application of Laws Act 2024. This landmark legislation, endorsed by His Majesty the King of Bhutan, establishes the governance structure for the GMC SAR, enhancing its autonomy and capacity for economic development.
The legal framework of GMC integrates elements from internationally recognized systems to ensure efficiency and transparency:
1. Singaporean Laws: GMC has adopted 18 laws from Singapore, covering areas such as company incorporation, employment, taxation, and more. Notable laws include the Companies Act 1967, Employment Act 1968, and Income Tax Act 1947.
2. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Regulations: To govern financial services, GMC incorporates 10 regulations from the ADGM, including the Financial Services and Markets Regulations 2015 and related rules.
This hybrid legal system aims to provide a robust and investor-friendly environment, facilitating efficient legal processes for businesses and individuals operating within GMC.
The establishment of the Gelephu Mindfulness City, underpinned by this comprehensive legal framework, positions it as a beacon of sustainable growth, legal transparency, and innovation in Bhutan.
At Gelephu Law, we provide expert legal guidance across multiple practice areas to ensure businesses, investors, and individuals comply with the evolving legal framework in Gelephu and Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Setting up and managing a business in Gelephu requires legal precision and compliance with regional laws. We offer end-to-end corporate legal services, including:
1. Company Registration & Incorporation – Assistance with business formation, licensing, and regulatory approvals.
2. Contract Drafting & Review – Legal support for business contracts, partnership agreements, shareholder agreements, and commercial transactions.
3. Corporate Governance & Compliance – Ensuring your business adheres to corporate laws, industry regulations, and ethical business practices.
4. Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) – Legal assistance for business acquisitions, restructuring, and joint ventures.
Gelephu Mindfulness City offers a progressive investment climate. Our legal experts help local and international investors navigate the region’s tax structure and investment policies, including:
1. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Advisory – Understanding investment laws, incentives, and sector-specific policies.
2, Tax Planning & Compliance – Guidance on corporate taxation, income tax, VAT, and applicable tax exemptions.
3. Legal Due Diligence – Ensuring secure and legally compliant investments in business ventures and real estate.
With Gelephu’s legal framework incorporating Singaporean and Bhutanese employment regulations, we provide expert legal counsel to both employers and employees, covering:
1. Employment Contracts & HR Policies – Drafting and reviewing legally sound employment agreements, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), and HR policies.
2. Labor Dispute Resolution – Representation in labor disputes, wrongful termination cases, and workplace conflicts.
3. Work Permits & Immigration Laws – Assistance with work visas, foreign worker permits, and employment authorization for expatriates.
4. Compliance with Labor Laws – Ensuring businesses adhere to wage laws, working hours, employee rights, and occupational health & safety regulations.
Whether you are buying, selling, leasing, or investing in property in Gelephu, we provide expert legal services to protect your interests, including:
1. Property Transactions & Title Verification – Legal due diligence on real estate purchases, sales, and ownership rights.
2. Lease Agreements & Tenant Rights – Drafting and reviewing commercial and residential lease contracts.
3. Land Disputes & Litigation – Representation in property disputes, zoning regulations, and land development issues.
4. Real Estate Investment Advisory – Legal insights on property investment opportunities, tax implications, and land-use policies.
Gelephu Mindfulness City integrates Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) financial regulations, ensuring a business-friendly financial ecosystem. Our legal experts help you navigate:
1. Financial Services & Markets Compliance – Legal support for banks, financial institutions, and fintech businesses in Gelephu.
2. Anti-Money Laundering (AML) & Compliance – Ensuring strict adherence to AML laws, Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations, and financial reporting standards.
3. Regulatory Approvals & Licensing – Assistance with obtaining business licenses, financial service permits, and compliance with corporate governance rules.
4. Intellectual Property (IP) Protection – Trademark registration, copyright protection, and legal action against IP infringement.
Gelephu Law, maintained by Basnet Attorneys and Law, is your dedicated legal resource for Gelephu and Gelephu Mindfulness City. We provide comprehensive legal services to businesses, investors, and individuals seeking reliable legal guidance, regulatory compliance, and expert representation in Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC, Bhutan).