• GDP: US$0.8 billion (2005).
• Main exports: Electric power generation and transmission, cardamom, gypsum, timber and handicrafts.
• Main imports: Fuel and lubricants, machinery and parts, vehicles, fabrics and agricultural products, especially grain, fruit and vegetables.
• Main trade partners: India and Bangladesh.

Almost all the working population is involved in agriculture, forestry or fishing. The economy is therefore mainly one of subsistence. The main products are cereals and timber – about 60% of the land area is forested. Over 90% of the population are subsistence farmers, living a life unchanged over generations. There is some small-scale industry (contributing no more than 5% of GDP) producing textiles, soap, matches, candles and carpets.

Recent economic policy has concentrated on export industries, of which electric power generation and transmission is the major earner. Tourism and stamps are major sources of foreign exchange. Gross National Happiness, which measures the population’s physical, emotional and spiritual well-being to help assess the country’s ’wealth’, is an official part of the constitution.

Bhutan is a member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, which seeks to improve the region’s economic and commercial links. The country receives substantial aid from India, which finances nearly three-fifths of Bhutan’s budget expenditures.

Lightweight suit or a shirt and tie for the south. In the capital, a full business suit and tie are recommended. The best time to visit for business is October and November.

Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry
PO Box 147, Doebum Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Tel: (2) 322 742 or 324 254.
Website: www.bcci.com.bt/BCCIWebsite/Index.htm

The BTCL can offer advice on conferences/conventions (see Contact Addresses).