As Bhutan’s digital content industry grows, policymakers are grappling with how to enable creators, particularly those on platforms like TikTok to fully monetize their work amid structural and economic constraints. This was one of the discussions that came up during Bhutan Media Forum on a discussion titled, “Shaping Bhutan’s Creators Economy”.
Recent figures highlight a sharp rise in earnings among Bhutanese YouTubers, with revenues increasing from approximately 38,000 US dollars in 2023 to 104,000 US dollars in 2024, and reaching 161,000 US dollars in 2025.
The steady growth suggests that Bhutanese creators are gradually finding success in the global digital economy.
However, an official from the RMA said that while YouTube monetization appears relatively accessible, challenges persist for TikTok creators. Unlike YouTube, TikTok’s monetization pathways often rely on digital payment systems such as PayPal, which is not currently operational in Bhutan.
He revealed that efforts have been made to engage with PayPal’s management to explore the possibility of introducing the service in the country.
Jurme Tenzin, the specialist of Department of Financial Regulation & Supervision, RMA said, “We went to the extent of meeting the PayPal management. But their requirement is very clear and specific. The overall transfer should be about 400 million US dollars in a year. So, their fee should be at least 2.5% or 10 million US dollars. And there is no way, considering the size of Bhutanese economy right now, we can afford to have PayPal here.”
The discussion also drew suggestions from the audience, with one participant urging the RMA to explore alternative payment solutions instead of relying solely on PayPal.
The participant further recommended that authorities engage directly with TikTok management to identify more feasible monetization pathways tailored to Bhutan’s economic context.
Currently, TikTok creators in Bhutan are generating income through alternative means, often relying on informal or indirect payment channels, including support from Bhutanese living abroad.
Samten Dolkar
