Bhutan has launched its first-ever Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Impact Finance Forum in its capital, Thimphu, marking a major milestone in the country’s push to unlock investment for sustainable development. The two-day forum, which began on December 11, 2025, brings together policymakers, development partners, financial experts, and representatives from the private sector to explore new ways of mobilising capital aligned with the SDGs.
The event reflects Bhutan’s evolving strategy for financing its development priorities, especially as it transitions toward investment-driven growth following its graduation from least developed country status. Participants are expected to discuss innovative financial instruments, impact investing, blended finance mechanisms, and partnerships that can bridge funding gaps for social and environmental priorities.
In the lead-up to the forum, Bhutanese officials and experts highlighted that the nation’s main financing challenge is not merely access to funds, but strengthening the institutional and structural readiness of its financial system to absorb and channel investment effectively toward sustainable outcomes. This includes enhancing policy frameworks, improving regulatory environments, and building capacities for tracking SDG-aligned finance at the national level.
The SDG Impact Finance Forum underscores Bhutan’s broader commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth. It seeks to position the country as a platform for dialogue on financing solutions that meet both national development goals and global SDG targets ahead of the 2030 Agenda deadline.