The country’s trade deficit doubled by over Nu 61bn last year compared to 2024. A trade deficit occurs when a country imports more than it exports. According to the finance ministry’s latest Bhutan Trade Statistics, while export figures have shown growth, a surge in technology imports has pushed the trade balance to a record high.
The country’s trade deficit increased from over Nu 58bn in 2024 to over Nu 120bn last year.
In 2024, Bhutan exported goods worth more than Nu 62bn while importing Nu 121bn worth of goods.
Last year, the exports increased to almost Nu 70bn, and the imports jumped to over Nu 190bn. The increase is attributed to the import of technology-related goods
On the export side, the country continues to rely on its natural resources and energy production to stabilise the economy. Ferrosilicon remains the leading export good, generating over Nu 15bn.
Electricity remains the vital backbone of Bhutan’s revenue. Last year, the country exported power, worth almost Nu 25bn.
The Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Plant was the most significant contributor, generating almost Nu 13bn, followed by the Tala Hydropower Project, which generated more than Nu 4bn.
India continues to remain the country’s primary trading partner.
Deki Lhazom
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
