In the quiet eastern district of Trashigang, a young entrepreneur is turning local crops into opportunity—both for himself and for the farming communities around him.
At just 28, Ugyen Phuntsho has carved out a modest but promising livelihood through his small-scale food enterprise, Lumang Food and Products. Each month, he earns between Nu 20,000 and 30,000 by producing a range of packaged snacks made from locally sourced ingredients.
What sets his venture apart is its deep connection to the region’s agricultural roots. Using maize, buckwheat, cassava, barley, and other locally grown crops, Ugyen produces cookies, cupcakes, pickles, and chips that reflect both traditional ingredients and evolving consumer tastes. His products have already found their way onto the shelves of Wamrong Café and Tragopan Café—two local outlets that support homegrown businesses.
But beyond personal success, Ugyen’s work is quietly reshaping the local economy. By purchasing raw materials directly from nearby farmers, he provides them with a steady and reliable market. This not only supplements their income but also helps redirect surplus produce that might otherwise be used for alcohol production into more sustainable and profitable channels.
The journey, however, has not been without support. Ugyen credits the Bhutan Foundation and Tarayana Foundation for playing a crucial role in getting his business off the ground. Through equipment provision, skills training, and financial assistance in the form of a loan, these organizations helped transform his idea into a functioning enterprise.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. One of the biggest hurdles is inconsistent demand, which makes it difficult to plan production and ensure stable income. However, Ugyen remains optimistic. He believes that obtaining official product certification will open doors to larger markets, improve consumer trust, and bring greater stability to his business.
As he looks ahead, Ugyen hopes to expand his reach beyond local cafés and establish Lumang Food and Products as a recognized name in Bhutan’s growing food processing sector. For now, his story stands as a testament to how innovation, local resources, and community support can come together to create meaningful change—one packet of snacks at a time.
