FII Media Release

Bhutan Economic affairs Minister invites FII Entrepreneurs for investment
September 13, 2021

Federation of Indian Industry trade meeting with Bhutan was convened through Online Virtual mode. The Guest of Honour His Excellency Hon’ble Minister of Economic affairs Mr. Loknath Sharma presented the keynote address. The Theme was INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN BHUTAN. The program commenced with a brief note by the Director-General Mr. Deepak Jain. Mr. Jain highlighted that India and Bhutan inherit a common social, cultural, and economic heritage and the common ethos that we share in the South Asian Continent. He invited Bhutan Industries to work in close coordination with Indian Industries and bring in a change in the current economic scenario.
From the Indian side Mr. Sanjay Gupta, Chairman Corporate Insolvency and Restructuring
The committee presented the areas of investment where Global and Indian interests can align. Mr. Tashi Dorji took the delegates through a series of business opportunities, which Bhutan can attract.
Bhutan has its geographical and economic advantages. Beyond tourism, spices and special
condiments are of significant importance. The focus on organic agriculture makes the products acceptable worldwide. Also, there are many natural mineral resources, eco-friendly renewable energy resources that can be tapped for trade benefits between India and Bhutan. The presence of international diaspora from Thailand and Germany is of significant mention.
The keynote address was delivered by Hon’ble minister Mr. Loknath Sharma. Extending the
greetings on Ganapati Utsav and the upcoming Durga Pooja, he talked about the strong cultural ties between the two countries. He spoke on how Bhutan is gradually progressing and is having the focus on various hurdles that are required to be tackled. Agriculture, energy, and startups were the three main focus areas highlighted by him. He agreed on how FII through its institutional framework can bring in a startup promotion in Bhutan. Bhutan is poised for Innovation and creativity in the IT and digital sectors, he mentioned. He talked about wealth creation, import substitutions, and the digital revolution.
Bhutan is dependent on 90% of imports from India and nearly 50% of investment originates in India. An overwhelming enthusiasm was reflected during the question and answer session which indicated the success of the program. The concluding remarks were given by Mr. Rajendra Khimesra. Passing remarks were given by Chairperson International Affairs Committee Mr. Hitender Mehta who also welcomed the guests. Dr. Shailendra Vyas, Vice President FII conducted the program and shared the Vote of Thanks.

Office Secretary
Federation of Indian Industry