Going beyond agriculture, hydropower and tourism...
Thukten Zangpo Paro-Bhutan’s economy, traditionally anchored in the hydropower, tourism, and service sectors, is at a crossroads, and to achieve sustainable growth, the country must pivot toward innovation and entrepreneurship. In an era marked by transformative technological advancements—particularly in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital solutions—the urgency for diversification is palpable. The high rate of youth unemployment and migration of skilled workers highlight the urgent need to diversify the economy and create opportunities for the country’s young population.
By increasing investments in innovation, Bhutan can not only retain its talent but also attract investments, stimulate entrepreneurship, and leapfrog into new industries, such as digital technologies and sustainability-driven enterprises. With an educated workforce and accessible digital infrastructure, Bhutan is poised to embrace emerging technologies in sectors like agriculture, fashion, renewable energy, and tourism. At the Bhutan Innovation Forum yesterday, the president of European Capital Coverage, LionTree, Fatine Layt, said that innovation is crucial for job creation but must be sector-specific.
The upcoming Gelephu Mindfulness City raises questions about market positioning, product offerings, and competitive advantages, she added. “One cannot market a tax-free hub and a mindful place. If you need to combine the two, one .
