Bhutan Joins Cumberland DRW to Build Gelephu Digital Hub
- Bhutan partners with Cumberland DRW to build a sustainable digital asset hub in Gelephu.
- The MoU focuses on stablecoin development, green infrastructure, and talent growth programs.
- Gelephu Mindfulness City aims to attract global tech talent and diversify Bhutan’s economy.
Bhutan has entered a multi-year strategic partnership with Cumberland DRW to develop a digital asset ecosystem in Gelephu Mindfulness City. The agreement supports Bhutan’s broader plan to build a responsible digital economy rooted in sustainability and long-term national development.
The partnership follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Gelephu Mindfulness City and Cumberland DRW. The project aims to balance innovation, environmental care, and inclusive economic growth.
Gelephu Mindfulness City is under development as a new economic hub in southern Bhutan. The city plans to attract global talent while promoting technology adoption guided by national values. The project was designed by the authorities to encourage diversification outside of conventional economic sectors.
Focus on Infrastructure, Stablecoins, and Talent
Under the agreement, both parties plan to develop a modern digital asset infrastructure inside Gelephu Mindfulness City. The cooperation includes digital asset frameworks designed for long-term stability and regulatory clarity. The partners also plan to explore financial systems that support responsible innovation.
Cumberland DRW will provide worldwide experience in market structure and digital asset trading. The company operates as a major liquidity provider to crypto markets all over the world. Through the partnership, Bhutan gains access to global digital asset networks and institutional expertise.
The MoU outlines plans for sustainable digital asset mining powered by renewable energy. The framework also includes an artificial intelligence computing infrastructure that aligns with Bhutan’s environmental goals. The goal of developers is to ensure that energy consumption promotes economic expansion without increasing carbon emissions.
Another fundamental tenet of the collaboration is talent development. Both parties intend to improve institutional capacities in Bhutan’s public and private sectors. Training initiatives are designed to ensure the long-term resilience of digital systems and develop local expertise.
Green Digital Ltd leads the initiative on Bhutan’s side. The entity operates under Gelephu Mindfulness City and focuses on renewable-powered digital infrastructure. The company supports secure blockchain networks and national diversification goals.
Related: Bhutan’s TER Token Signals State Move Into RWA Finance
Building on Bhutan’s Digital Asset Track Record
The partnership builds on Bhutan’s earlier adoption of digital financial infrastructure. Bhutan ranks among the first sovereign nations to mine Bitcoin using renewable hydropower. The country accumulated a national Bitcoin reserve through clean energy operations.
Bhutan has also deployed public blockchain infrastructure for digital identity services. Currently, almost 800,000 citizens use blockchain-based systems to access government services and confirm their identities. Officials said the system improves efficiency and security across public platforms.
Bhutan recently incorporated digital assets into the strategic reserves of Gelephu Mindfulness City. Additionally, authorities allowed cryptocurrency-based payments for travel agencies and retailers. These measures encourage the broader use of digital finance in regulated environments.
Bhutan also launched TER, a sovereign-backed digital token linked to physical gold. The initiative aims to combine asset backing with digital efficiency. The token supports financial innovation while maintaining tangible value references.
Through the Cumberland DRW partnership, Bhutan plans to expand these foundations. The collaboration aims to link renewable energy, financial infrastructure, and global market access. Authorities described the project as part of a long-term national strategy.
