Shopping online is quite a hassle in Bhutan due to payment related issues. However, this might all change soon with the launch of Bhutan’s largest online shopping store Pelden Drukpa (PD) Express.
It was launched at its branch office at Chamkhar in Bumthang yesterday. People can buy goods with both foreign and local currency.
At the opening, the web service and mobile app of the PD Drukpa Express were launched. The features and style of the website and the app are similar to that of China based online retail service provider, AliExpress.
39-year-old Tshering Dendup from Bumthang is the owner.
He conceived the idea and developed the website and the app with the help of a Thimphu based software developing company.
“Initially, we wanted to develop the service just as a gateway to sell Made In Bhutan products in the international market,” Tshering Dendup said.
“However, we thought it would be nice to be able to give a platform for Bhutanese consumers to buy goods from foreign companies directly rather than having to buy through conventional retail based business system. That’s why we came up with this service.”
A wide variety of products ranging from clothes to electronics, home appliances and car accessories among others can be bought from the store.
Over 3500 products are available for shopping currently. More than 20,000 products will be added to the store after a week or so.
“Transaction on our store can be done through Scan and Pay, M-BOB, Maestro Card, etc. With PD Express, local products made in Bhutan can be sold outside, which means more inflow of foreign currencies. Moreover, as we pay lesser for the products we buy online, there will be lesser outflow of money from our economy,” Tshering Dendup added.
There are over 200 companies from Vietnam, China, Indonesia, India and Bhutan registered with PD Express currently.
The shipment of goods will arrive at the store’s head office in Thimphu within 10 to 15 days after placing an order.
