In recent years, Bhutan has made significant progress in expanding its agricultural exports to international markets. The National Organic Flagship programme has played an important role in supporting farmers and promoting organic production. One such success story is the export of asparagus to Singapore, which began in April this year.
The farmers have been exporting asparagus to Singapore, showcasing the authentic Bhutanese culture by tying them with banana peels to prevent damage during transportation.
While the government handled the first three consignments, the most recent ones were given out to one of the private businesses, Sibjam. This is the sixth consignment export since April 15.
“Thanks to the support of the government, we have been able to export our agricultural products without any problems. The government has provided us with market information, financial assistance and guidance on export procedures. Our employees have also received comprehensive training. The government initially handled the first three consignments,” said Kinley Wangchuk, the founder of Sibjam.
In addition to asparagus, Sibjam has exported broccoli and cauliflower to Singapore and plans to continue its export in the coming week.
According to the Department of Agricultural Marketing and Cooperatives, organic products are required to be certified with the Bhutan Organic Standard.
The Bhutan Organic Standard serves as a common platform for understanding the requirements of organic production, processing, labelling and marketing of agriculture, livestock and forest products. The certification ensures credible quality assurance.
“The Department of Agriculture has been giving training to the farmers on how to grow crops organically, manage them, and also to document and keep the record so that we can meet the international certification requirements. This is because when we export, our standard is not good enough. We have to meet the international standards. And the quality of produce by our farmers differs. Therefore, we have to standardise and make it consistent,” said Kesang Tshomo, programme manager of the National Organic Flagship.
Currently, the asparagus for export is primarily sourced from Paro due to its convenient logistics, with the international airport located in the district. Paro also produces the highest quantity of asparagus compared to other districts.
However, the Department of Agricultural Marketing and Cooperatives plans to gradually source asparagus from other districts as well.
Apart from Singapore, the department is exploring potential markets in Bangladesh, India and Thailand to export other high-value agricultural products.
“We have initiated the export of asparagus to our neighbouring country Singapore. We have also sent a few samples to other countries as well. One of the primary objectives for initiating this export is to earn foreign currency. But also, we like to offer better prices to our farmers who are growing asparagus which will have an effect in enhancing the production and also in improving the quality of asparagus,” said Kinlay Tshering, the director of the department of agriculture marketing and cooperatives.
Meanwhile, according to the department of agricultural marketing and cooperatives, the office plans to encourage farmers to cultivate white and purple asparagus, as Bhutan possesses excellent quality and a promising market potential for these varieties.
As per the department, white and purple asparagus fetch premium prices in the international market.
Bhutan currently exports green asparagus to Singapore, as it is the most commonly grown variety in the country.
Tashi Yangden & Namgay Wangchuk
Edited by Sonam Pem
