Bhutan is set to welcome a new foreign agribusiness investment as ECOSAFE Indo Continental LLP, a company based in Guwahati, India, moves forward with plans to establish a large-scale Himalayan black cardamom cultivation and export venture in Dagana Dzongkhag. The initiative represents the firm’s first international expansion and is expected to strengthen Bhutan’s presence in premium spice markets abroad.
According to project details shared with local stakeholders, approximately 300 acres of state land across Laja Gewog and Khebisa Gewog have been identified for the development. The project will be rolled out in phases, beginning with cultivation on about 150 acres before expanding to the full area. A food processing and export-packaging facility is also planned as part of the second phase, aiming to add value within the country before produce reaches global buyers.
The venture proposes a vertically integrated model that combines plantation, post-harvest processing, grading and packaging. Officials involved in early consultations say the approach could help standardise quality, improve traceability and reduce reliance on fragmented supply chains traditionally associated with the spice sector.
Produce from the project is expected to be marketed internationally under the “Brand Bhutan” label, targeting high-end markets where demand for Himalayan black cardamom remains strong. Export destinations are likely to include India, Bangladesh and parts of the Middle East, regions that have shown consistent appetite for premium-grade spices.
Agriculture specialists note that Dagana’s mid-altitude terrain, abundant rainfall and shaded forest environments are particularly favourable for black cardamom cultivation. The plantation phase is projected to span two years, with commercial harvesting anticipated from the third year onward. Peak output is expected between the fourth and ninth years of operation.
If implemented at full scale, the project could become one of Bhutan’s largest organised black cardamom ventures. Observers say it may mark a shift toward more structured agribusiness models in the country, offering consistent production volumes and improved export readiness.
Beyond export earnings, the initiative is projected to create both permanent and seasonal employment opportunities in rural communities. The developers have indicated that shade-grown cultivation methods will be adopted, which align with Bhutan’s emphasis on environmentally responsible farming and the preservation of forest ecosystems. Local economic activity is also expected to benefit through logistics, processing and related services.
Project documentation has reportedly been completed, and land sites have been identified in coordination with local authorities. Formal land lease approval and investor onboarding are expected to be the next major steps before field operations begin.
