1 TRANSLATION OF THE PROCEEDINGS AND ... - APFA News

Among many other provisions, the act also lays down the moral rights of
authors, and to enable authors and designers earn royalty from their writings or
products; the duration of the copyright has been categorized into three groups.
There are provisions which specify whether works of authors can be copied
without their prior permission. Moreover, the act also identifies the legal entity
that will exercise the moral rights of authors after their death.
Today, Bhutan is preparing to become a member of the World Trade
Organization. If there were no such acts, it would be difficult for the country to
gain WTO’s membership.
Copyright act has become necessary as there are many writers coming up in the
country. Besides, such an act is indispensable for Bhutan in an age of
globalization. If such an act were there, it would further encourage Bhutanese
authors and writers. This would then help development of publication industry
and related enterprises. It would also help in the promotion of the country’s
tradition and cultural heritage. The Hon’ble Minister said he would be thankful
if the National Assembly passes the act after making necessary amendments and
changes.
The proposal of Punakha Chimi that dates corresponding to Bhutanese calendar be
reflected in the title of the act, Copyright Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan, 2001, was
endorsed and passed by the National Assembly.
XIV. The Commercial Sale of Goods Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan
Towards the conclusion of the 78 th session of the National Assembly, the
Ministry of Trade and Industry has submitted a draft of The Commercial Sale of
Goods Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan to all the members so that it could be
passed in the current session. Moreover, a revised copy of the draft of The
207