Farmers in Haa district will have a secure market for their apples starting this year. This is following a new agreement between Bhutan Agro Industries Limited and the district administration aimed at improving market access and farmers’ incomes. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed today.
According to the officials from Haa district, the initiative aims to address long-standing challenges related to limited trade routes and pricing, which have affected farmers’ incomes over the years.
They said the collaboration is expected to improve farmers’ livelihoods. They added that it would also encourage farmers to increase production and expand apple cultivation.
Tenzin Jamba, Chairperson of Haa Dzongkhag Tshogdu said,”Poor sales have discouraged farmers. However, with this collaboration, we hope to renew their motivation and boost production.”
The Chief Executive Officer of Bhutan Agro said the company will ensure a fair market price for the apples, which is expected to benefit farmers and build confidence in commercial apple farming.
Sherab Namgay, the Chief Executive Officer of Bhutan Agro Industries Ltd said, “Apple prices will be based on quality. However, even lower-quality apples that may not be accepted in other markets will be purchased at Nu 20. These apples will also be used for producing juice and apple cider.”
Moreover, for the district, it is more than just an opportunity to improve production and livelihood, but also to encourage, retain and bring people back to their villages.
Beyond this, the partnership is also expected to expand to other crops such as carrots and beetroot.
The Chairperson of Haa Dzongkhag Tshogdu said, “Carrots and beetroots are also produced in good quantities in Haa. Currently, these products are supplied to the Food Corporation of Bhutan in Phuentshogling. However, there is scope to further expand the partnership to include these crops as well, and the company is exploring possibilities for their procurement.”
Last year, Haa district produced around 41 metric tonnes of apples. Haa is one of the major apple-producing districts.
Sangay Chozom
