In a step to strengthen the agricultural value chain, the Haa Dzongkhag Administration and Bhutan Agro Industries Limited signed a MoU focused on farmer support, crop research and product promotion.
Under this agreement, BAIL will procure the entire apple production of Haa Dzongkhag at prevailing rates determined by the company. The Haa Dzongkhag Agriculture Sector will facilitate production and support farmers intending to supply apples to BAIL, ensuring a seamless link between farm and factory. In addition, BAIL will undertake Research & Development initiatives on other high-value crops grown abundantly in the 6 gewogs of the Dzongkhag, including carrots and beetroot. This will help diversify product development and unlock new market opportunities for local farmers. As part of the collaboration, Haa Dzongkhag Administration will prioritize the use of Bhutan Agro products in its official events and programs, further promoting locally processed goods.
Bhutan Agro Industries Limited, a leading agro-processing company in the country, is mandated to enhance the livelihood of farmers. The company currently procures more than 17 agricultural and horticultural produces, converting them into juices, jams, pickles, and high-end apple cider vinegar, all of which are supplied across the domestic market.
โThis partnership will directly benefit the farmers of Haa Dzongkhag by providing them a reliable and assured market for their apple produce, eliminating the uncertainty of finding buyers. Our goal is to ensure that farmers can focus on quality production without worrying about market access,โ said the CEO of Bhutan Agro.
Haa Dzongdag Sonam Tobgye, added, โThis MoU reflects our shared commitment to transforming the agriculture sector in the Dzongkhag. By working closely with Bhutan Agro, we are not only supporting our farmers but also promoting local products through our own events and programs.โ
Both parties expressed optimism that this collaboration will help drive rural development in ways that will reduce post-harvest losses and build a resilient, market-oriented agricultural economy in the Dzongkhag. Bhutan Agro Industries Limited Thimphu
