As the sun rises over the picturesque landscape of Bhutan, a nation nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, anticipation mounts for the inaugural session of the Bhutan Agrifood Trade and Investment Forum (BATIF) 2024. Scheduled from May 15 to 19, this landmark event promises to unveil the vast potential hidden within Bhutan’s agri-food sector, spotlighting high-value products cultivated in its unique geographical environment.
With an aim to catalyze national economic development, BATIF 2024 serves as a beacon, drawing policymakers, entrepreneurs, and businesses into a collaborative orbit. The stage is set for over 200 participants, including government officials, international business leaders, development partners, and visionaries, all converging to delve deep into the realms of agri-food systems.
At the heart of BATIF 2024 lies a strategic vision meticulously crafted by officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. “The forum seeks to weave a tapestry of support, uniting donors, private investors, and stakeholders in a concerted effort,” shares a ministry official. “Our goal is not just to attract investments but to forge robust linkages, optimizing supply chains from farm to table.”
The objectives are clear – forge business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) alliances, secure investments to bolster local capacities, and foster dialogue with policymakers to realize Bhutan’s agricultural strategies. Against the backdrop of the upcoming 13th Plan, Bhutan has earmarked its agriculture sector for strategic focus, with ambitious targets set to propel economic growth.
By 2029, Bhutan envisions a landscape where productivity soars, market access broadens, and innovation thrives. With a targeted GDP contribution nearing USD 600 million, the nation charts a course toward sustainable growth, rooted in environmental stewardship. Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 710kt, alongside a doubling of export values, underscore Bhutan’s commitment to a green and resilient future.
As the curtains rise on BATIF 2024, Bhutan stands poised to captivate the world with its agrifood potential. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, in collaboration with key stakeholders including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN and the European Union, this forum represents more than just a gathering—it’s a testament to Bhutan’s unwavering commitment to shaping a prosperous future, one harvest at a time.
