The National Biodiversity Centre as the national focal point for the Nagoya Protocol has officially published its First National Report on the Implementation of the Nagoya Protocol to the Access and Benefit-Sharing Clearing-House (ABSCH) under the Convention on Biological Diversity.
The submission of the National Report on Access and Benefit Sharing to the Access and Benefit Sharing Clearing-House under the Convention on Biological Diversity is not just an international obligation. It is far more significant for Parties to the Nagoya Protocol, as this represents accountability and commitment to international agreements. The submission of reports on time reflects that the country is serious about its international obligations, and at the same time, this provides an opportunity to highlight progress made towards developing and improving national legislation, institutional mechanisms, compliance, and capacity-building on ABS.
On a larger scale, national reports contribute to an overall understanding of how effectively the Nagoya Protocol is being implemented at the global level. The information provided by Parties to the Nagoya Protocol enables evidence based decision-making and helps identify areas that require further attention. The process of preparing national reports can also contribute to strengthened national coordination, as this brings together government institutions, research institutions, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss and identify progress made and areas that still require attention. This not only reinforces good governance but also enables Parties to mobilize support for developing and improving ABS systems.
The submission was made after an extensive consultation at the regional and national level that involved bringing together the Technical Working Group (TWG), different representatives of relevant agencies of the government, research institutions, and other relevant stakeholders. The final report was approved after incorporating comments, feedback, and useful inputs received from the Technical Working Group (TWG) and the regional and national consultations to ensure that the document reflects the progress, achievements, and challenges of Bhutan in the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol and ABS framework.
The Nagoya Protocol is concerned with Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization (ABS). It plays a vital role in the promotion of biodiversity conservation, sustainable use, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits. The report from Bhutan indicates that some of the milestones include the development of national legislative and institutional frameworks, awareness raising, inter-agency coordination, and facilitating access agreements in line with national legislation.
The official deadline set by the CBD Secretariat is on 28 February, 2026. Bhutan has become the second country among the Asia Pacific to duly submit its First National Report within the stipulated timeframe, following Mongolia. This timely submission shows Bhutan’s strong commitment to its international obligations and the implementation of biodiversity-related agreements.
Preparation of the report involved a collaborative process coordinated by the national focal point of the Nagoya Protocol, in partnership with sectoral agencies and partners. The report outlines an overview of progress achieved, gaps in awareness and technical capabilities, and challenges in monitoring and evaluation, and strategic direction for improvement in national ABS implementation.
The timely submission of Bhutan’s National Report to the ABS Clearing-House reflects the country’s continued commitment towards environmental conservation and to ensure that benefits arising from the use of genetic resources are shared in a fair and equitable manner.
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