Health in the Kingdom of Bhutan is one of the highest priorities of the government in its scheme of development and modernization. As a component of Gross National Happiness policy, healthcare is provided free of cost to all the citizens by the government. The Ministry of Health is the central institution of the government to ensure a happy and healthy nation and has provided universal health care in Bhutan since the 1970s.
Bhutan regulates public health and safety in regards to food, under the Food Act of 2005. The Food Act establishes the National Food Quality and Safety Commission, and the Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (“BAFRA”).
Tobacco sale and consumption of tobacco is actively discouraged by the government through education, economic, and penal incentives. The Tobacco Control Act bans the sale of tobacco, taxes imports, and places restrictions on quantities individuals may possess.