Economic Affairs Committee Engages DoT on Tourism Development and Challenges
On
25th March, 2025, the Economic Affairs Committee of the National Council of
Bhutan conducted stakeholder meetings with Department of Tourism. The meeting
focused on evaluating the overall development of the tourism sector and its
contribution to the national economy.
Key issues discussed included the challenges of consolidating all tourism-related entities under a unified framework, inconsistencies in tourism policies, and the necessity of addressing regional disparities to ensure sustainable year-round tourism.
The officials from the Department of Tourism (DoT) presented the government’s comprehensive tourism strategy, acknowledging challenges in meeting targets while reaffirming their commitment to sustainable tourism development. They highlighted ongoing efforts to promote regenerative tourism, implement sustainable projects, and enhance regional entry points for a more balanced distribution of benefits. The department is advancing digital solutions to improve data collection, streamline visa processing, and strengthen stakeholder coordination.
Discussions also emphasized balancing Bhutan’s ‘high-value, low-impact’ tourism model with economic growth by improving infrastructure, adopting strategic marketing, and ensuring adaptable policies. DoT also stressed collaboration with neighboring regions, potential policy adjustments for tourism diversification, and measures to address regional disparities.
