Bhutan completes regional consultations to advance sustainable agrifood future
The consultation brought together 300 officials from different regions in the country
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, in collaboration with FAO Bhutan, and the United Nations Food Systems Coordination Hub, has completed a series of regional consultations to review the implementation of Bhutan’s National Pathways for Food Systems Transformation.
The consultations were aimed to gather insights from across all 20 Dzongkhags and 205 Gewogs, ensuring that the voices of farmers, local leaders, and sector officials contribute to shaping a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food system for Bhutan.
The first consultation took place in Phuentsholing on 13–14 October 2025, bringing together participants from Chukha, Haa, and Samtse Dzongkhags. Around 100 stakeholders, including Local Government leaders and agriculture and livestock officials, engaged in lively discussions and group sessions focused on strengthening food system resilience. Participants were also introduced to the National Crop and Livestock Insurance Scheme, a vital mechanism to de-risk the agrifood sector and safeguard farmers from losses.
Building on this momentum, the second regional consultation was held in Bumthang on 20–21 October 2025, drawing over 105 participants from Bumthang, Trongsa, Tsirang, and Zhemgang Dzongkhags. The forum served as a platform to share progress, exchange experiences, and identify practical actions to accelerate sustainable transformations in food production, processing, and market access.
The third consultation, convened in Mongar on 23–24 October 2025, gathered 97 participants representing Mongar, Lhuentse, and Trashiyangtse Dzongkhags. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to advancing Bhutan’s food systems transformation through stronger coordination, innovation, and community-led initiatives.
Through these consultations, the Ministry and its partners aim to strengthen collaboration at all levels, enhance policy coherence, and translate Bhutan’s National Pathways into concrete local actions that improve livelihoods, promote nutrition, and safeguard the environment.