Bhutan's Emerging Dairy Industry

The small Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has been traditionally known for its unique culture and breathtaking landscapes. Recently, the country has made strides in developing its dairy industry, with a focus on community participation and sustainability.

Dairy Farming Statistics

The transformation of dairy farming in Bhutan is evident through the initiatives in regions like Darla gewog in Chukha district. The community-run Darla Gonor Thoenked Gongphel Detshen has been instrumental in this shift.

Number of dairy cattle: Approximately 25,000

Milk production volume: Estimated at 45 million liters per year

Milk processing volume: Around 20 million liters annually

Cheese production volume: Bhutan is famous for its local cheese varieties, with an estimated production of around 500 tons per year.

Milk powder and whey production: Minimal, as most production is focused on fresh milk and traditional products.

Key Enterprises and Farms

While Bhuta's dairy sector is largely organized around smallholder farms, some notable players include:

• Bhutan Dairy Farmers Society
• Darla Gonor Thoenked Gongphel Detshen
• Chhukha Milk Production Group

In terms of dairy farms, many are community-run, supporting sustainable practices and rural development.

Exports and Imports

Bhutan’s export of dairy products is mainly limited to neighboring countries, with a focus on organic and traditionally made products. The volume of exports is relatively small, at approximately 50 tons per year.

Imports, on the other hand, include more processed dairy goods, totaling about 2,000 tons annually.

Events and Developments

Significant events in recent years include:

• The establishment of cooperative ventures such as the Darla Gonor Thoenked Gongphel Detshen.
• Government initiatives to boost dairy production by providing subsidies and training to farmers.
• Focus on increasing the production of traditional cheeses and dairy products for both local consumption and export.

Overall, the development of Bhutan's dairy sector is a testament to the potential of leveraging community-based approaches to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Modified: 2025/03/04

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