Bhutan Agriculture and Fishing Overview

Agriculture and fishing

Simple farming and livestock management for self-sufficiency is the traditional economic base in Bhutan. In the northern mountainous areas, some groups of people still move with their jackets according to the seasons. In slightly lower regions, many also keep sheep.

  • CountryAAH: Comprehensive import regulations of Bhutan. Covers import prohibitions and special documentation requirements for a list of prohibited items.

The importance of agriculture to the country’s economy is declining. Still, around two out of three Bhutanese are engaged in cultivation and / or livestock management. Almost half of the formal workforce is found in agriculture, which is generally conducted in small family units. For Bhutan defense and foreign policy, please check recipesinthebox.

Rice is staple but the harvests are not enough to feed the population but rice must also be imported. Corn, buckwheat, wheat and potatoes are also common. Fruits and spices are increasingly grown for sale as well; Apples, oranges, cardamom and ginger are among the most important crops.

Forestry is important but tightly regulated for environmental reasons. Nearly 70 percent of the country’s area is covered by forest, and the share is not allowed to fall below 60 percent by law. Most of the forest stock is state property, while a small portion may be utilized by the locals. Sweat use is prohibited. Above all, it is a daunting example of the effects of forest devastation in neighboring countries that have pushed the strict laws.

There are plenty of fish in the rivers, but the catches are small, mainly for religious reasons. Many Buddhists do not want to kill fish.

FACTS – AGRICULTURE

Agriculture’s share of GDP

17.4 percent (2017)

Percentage of land used for agriculture

13.6 percent (2016)

Bhutan Agriculture and Fishing