A permanent Bhutanese product outlet in Siliguri, India, has drawn massive interest from people in Siliguri and nearby areas. The new outlet, stocked with Bhutanese products, is seen as a stepping stone towards expanding Bhutanese goods beyond the country while also addressing domestic market challenges.
The outlet in Siliguri was opened yesterday at The Sunday Haat, showcasing nearly a hundred Bhutanese products.
The initiative by a group of Bhutanese entrepreneurs, with support from the Department of Agricultural Marketing and Cooperatives and partner agencies, is aimed at promoting Bhutanese goods across the border.
“Many people here are not aware of the agro-products made in Bhutan. So, it will serve as a place to showcase our products. It will also serve as a platform where interested people can order Bhutanese products in bulk,” said Sangay Thinley, the chief marketing officer with the Department of Agricultural Marketing and Cooperatives.
“Population is very important for business. Siliguri has a huge population and is also near our country. What is happening with our young entrepreneurs is that they give up easily when they face market challenges. Entrepreneurs should rather explore and look for markets like this,” said Kelzang, the regional secretary with BCCI in Phuentshogling.
Aggregators Network of Chhukha’s Chairman, Tshering Dorji said, “The outlet will always remain open and work as an aggregation centre. People from nearby areas like Kalimpong, Sikkim, and Darjeeling can also make bulk orders, and we will deliver from here. Here, we have products of almost all the startup entrepreneurs.”
Buyers from India showed keen interest in the products, with some even requesting bulk orders.
Beyond the products, many also expressed curiosity about Bhutanese cuisine.
The popular restaurant in Siliguri, Mamagoto will soon be introducing Bhutanese dishes.
Mamagoto’s owner Karan said, “Bhutanese products are truly exceptional, from their fresh juices, fruits, and vegetables to the purity of their air and the warmth of their people. Everything embodies serenity. I’m delighted to share that very soon, we will be launching a Bhutanese menu at Mamagoto restaurant in partnership with Bhutan.”
Raj Basu, the convener of the Association for Conservation and Tourism in India, said, “We are now looking at restaurants in Siliguri that would be serving Bhutanese food. So slowly, the Bhutanese food culture, along with the culture of happiness of Bhutan, should be a part of India.”
Bhutanese entrepreneurs are also looking at opening similar outlets in Kalimpong, Sikkim and Darjeeling as well.
With its first outlet in Siliguri, Bhutan is not only opening doors for its entrepreneurs but also building a bridge of culture, taste, and trade between the two neighbours.
Kinley Dem, Siliguri
