CoreSoftware Introduces GST-Ready Retail Solution for Bhutan Ahead of January 2026 Rollout

CoreSoftware announces GST-ready retail billing software for Bhutan ahead of GST implementation from 1st January 2026, supporting compliant invoicing, tax calculation, and GST reporting for retailers.

BHUTAN RETAIL SECTOR

12/31/20254 min read

GST Tax Regime in Bhutan showing Bhutanese flag and businesses

Starting 1st January 2026, Bhutan will transition to a Goods and Services Tax (GST) system, bringing a major change to how retail businesses manage billing and tax compliance.

To support this transition, RetailCore Technologies, the product company behind CoreSoftware, has enhanced its retail billing solution to fully support GST-compliant invoicing, tax calculation, and reporting for retailers operating in Bhutan.

CoreSoftware already powers daily operations for several retail stores across Bhutan. With this upgrade, retailers can confidently move into the GST era without disruption to their existing workflows.

Designed to Meet Bhutan’s GST Requirements

The introduction of GST impacts multiple aspects of retail operations, including invoicing formats, tax calculations, and statutory reporting. CoreSoftware’s latest upgrade has been built to address these requirements in a practical, retailer-friendly manner.

Key GST-ready capabilities include:

Accurate GST calculation at the time of billing
Clear tax breakup displayed on invoices
GST-compliant invoice formats
Sales and tax reports to support filing and audits
Configurable tax settings to align with notified GST rates

These features ensure retailers are compliant from day one, while keeping billing fast and simple at the counter.

Smooth Upgrade for Existing Retailers

For retailers already using CoreSoftware, the GST upgrade has been planned to ensure a seamless transition:

Existing stock, customer data, and billing history remain intact
No disruption to daily sales operations
Minimal retraining required for staff

The software continues to operate as a robust offline desktop system, ensuring uninterrupted billing even in locations with limited internet connectivity.

Focused Support for Bhutan Retailers

Beyond software changes, the CoreSoftware team is actively supporting Bhutanese retailers during this transition by providing:

Assistance with GST setup and configuration
Guidance on new billing and reporting requirements
Responsive support during the initial GST implementation phase

The goal is simple: reduce compliance stress and allow retailers to focus on running their business.

Preparing Retail Businesses for a New Tax Era

Whether a retailer in Bhutan is:

Already using CoreSoftware
Planning to open a new retail store
Looking to upgrade from a basic billing system before GST

CoreSoftware is ready to support GST-compliant retail operations from January 2026.

Retailers are encouraged to connect with the CoreSoftware team to understand the upgrade process and ensure timely readiness for the new GST framework.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Bhutan GST & CoreSoftware

1. When will GST be implemented in Bhutan?

The Bhutan government has announced that the GST regime will come into effect from 1st January 2026. Retail businesses will need to issue GST-compliant invoices and maintain proper tax records from this date.

2. Is CoreSoftware ready for Bhutan GST requirements?

Yes. CoreSoftware has been upgraded to support GST-compliant billing, invoicing, and reporting, ensuring retailers are ready from the first day of implementation.

3. What GST features are available in CoreSoftware?

CoreSoftware supports:

GST calculation at the time of billing
GST-compliant invoice formats with tax breakup
Sales and tax summary reports for compliance
Flexible tax configuration based on product categories

These features are designed to keep billing simple while meeting regulatory requirements.

4. Will my existing data be affected during the GST upgrade?

No. Existing stock data, customer records, and billing history remain fully intact. The GST upgrade is designed to be smooth and non-disruptive for ongoing retail operations.

5. Does CoreSoftware require internet connectivity for GST billing?

No. CoreSoftware works as a fully offline desktop application. Retailers can continue billing even if internet connectivity is unavailable, which is especially useful in remote or semi-urban areas.

6. Will my staff need extensive training to use GST features?

No. The GST functionality is integrated into the existing billing workflow. Since staff continue using a familiar interface, only minimal guidance is required to start GST billing.

7. Can CoreSoftware handle future GST rate changes?

Yes. CoreSoftware allows easy updates to GST rates, ensuring retailers can adapt quickly if tax rates are revised by authorities in the future.

8. Is CoreSoftware suitable for small retail shops in Bhutan?

Yes. CoreSoftware is suitable for:

Small single-store retailers
Medium-sized retail businesses
Stores planning to expand in the future

The software is designed to scale as the business grows.

9. How can existing CoreSoftware users in Bhutan upgrade to GST-ready version?

Existing customers will be guided through the upgrade process by the CoreSoftware support team, including GST setup and configuration assistance.

10. Who should contact CoreSoftware regarding Bhutan GST readiness?

Retailers who are:

Already using CoreSoftware
Planning to start a retail business in Bhutan
Looking to upgrade from basic billing software before GST

can contact the CoreSoftware team for GST readiness and upgrade support.

11. What is the standard GST rate in Bhutan?

The standard GST rate is 5% for most goods and services. This replaces the previous Sales Tax system and aims to create a more transparent tax structure.

12. Who is required to register for GST?

Mandatory Registration: Any business with an annual turnover exceeding Nu. 5 million.
Voluntary Registration: Businesses with a turnover of Nu. 2.5 million or more can choose to register to benefit from Input Tax Credits.

13. What is BITS, and do I need it?

BITS (Bhutan Integrated Taxation System) is the new digital portal where you will activate your account, file returns, and pay taxes. RetailCore will generate the reports you need to upload or enter into this system.

14. Can I still use my old invoices?

No. Under the new law, you must issue a "Tax Invoice" that includes specific details:

The words "Tax Invoice" clearly visible.
Your unique Taxpayer Number (TPN/GSTIN).
A serial number and the date of supply.
A clear breakdown of the 5% GST amount.

15. What happens to the stock I bought before January 1st?

You can still sell your existing stock. RetailCore allows you to update the tax settings for your entire inventory instantly, ensuring that sales made from 1st January 2026 onwards carry the correct 5% GST.