In Bhutan, oranges are more than just a popular fruit; they play a crucial role in the country’s agricultural economy, particularly in the southern regions, where their cultivation is a vital source of income for local farmers. Over the past few years, the export of oranges has become an increasingly …
Read More »Bhutan’s only slaughterhouse faces scrutiny over outdated practices
The only operational slaughterhouse in Bhutan has come under scrutiny for using outdated and primitive slaughtering methods, raising serious concerns about animal welfare. Report from Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (CCAA) indicate that the facility lacks modern techniques and adequate infrastructure to ensure humane and efficient processing of livestock. The …
Read More »Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) gets thousands of applications worth billions
The Economic Stimulus Program (ESP) has received a total of 3,969 applications for Concessional Credit Lines (CCLs) under Window 1 worth Nu 8.997 billion (bn) as of 28th February 2025. Of the above, 892 applications worth Nu 860.54 million (mn) were approved and 960 applications worth Nu 4.5 bn declined, …
Read More »Chimi Dema brings home a medal for the second time
Chimi Dema, 31, Bhutan’s sole para-athelete competing at the 2025 World Para Athletics Grand Prix held in New Delhi, India, made her mark on the international stage by securing the second place in the women’s F40 Shotput event. The competition, which took place from 11th to 13th March , attracted …
Read More »Bhutan to pay Nu 13.3 billion in debt servicing for FY 2024/25
The government has allocated Nu 13.3 billion (bn) for total debt servicing in FY 2024/25, a decrease from Nu 14.6 bn in the previous fiscal year. This includes both principal repayments and interest payments for domestic and external debt obligations. Debt servicing through the budget increased significantly in FY 2023/24, …
Read More »Phuentsholing businesses struggle as shoppers flock to India for cheaper goods
Businesses in Phuentsholing are facing increasing challenges as more consumers head to India for cheaper goods. The lower prices and wider selection of products in nearby Jaigaon, just across the border, are drawing more Bhutanese shoppers, putting local businesses under pressure. Phuentsholing’s economy has traditionally relied on cross-border trade, with …
Read More »Paro International Airport to get automated immigration clearance system
Total budget for all the project is Nu 603 million After the successful completion of the installation of automated immigration clearance system (AICS) at the Pedestrian Terminal in Phuentsholing, the Ministry of Home Affairs plans to implement the same at the Paro International Airport. Lyonpo Tshering, the Minister of Home …
Read More »PIT exemption slab being looked at: MoF Minister
The Finance Minister Lyonpo Lekey Dorji in response to a question in the monthly meet-the-press on revising the Personal Income Tax Slab said the Ministry of Finance acknowledges that the personal income tax exemption limit was last revised in 2020 and that subsequent salary revisions in 2023 have resulted in …
Read More »Water Management and Climate Change take center stage in Paro Forum 2025
The Paro Forum 2025, organized by JSW Law’s Climate Change & Environmental Law Centre, focused on water management and climate change from 22nd-24th February 2025, at JSW Law, Paro Campus. The Forum was graced by Her Royal Highness Sonam Dechan Wangchuck who also launched The Wisdom Center for Justice which …
Read More »National youth chess championship spots young talents for international competition
The Annual National Youth Chess Championship (under 18) was held on 21st February as a tribute to His Majesty The King and to celebrate His Majesty’s Birthday. Organized by Bhutan Chess Federation and coordinated by four officials, the tournament took place at Bhutan Olympic Committee Hall. The competition saw young …
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