𝐅𝐂𝐁𝐋 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞

…𝑭𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒕 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑫𝒐𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒑 𝑪𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑭𝒂𝒊𝒓 𝑷𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒏𝒈

By Kezang Choden

Food Corporation of Bhutan Limited (FCBL) has expanded its reach to directly procure cardamom from farmers across Bhutan’s southern, central, and eastern districts. This initiative marks the first time the corporation is purchasing the spice in large volumes, with the goal of reducing logistical burdens and ensuring fair market access for farmers.
Traditionally, Bhutanese cardamom farmers faced significant challenges in transporting their produce to market centers. The high cost of transportation and dependence on middlemen often left them with minimal profits. By deploying dedicated teams to purchase cardamom directly from farmers’ doorsteps, FCBL eliminates these challenges, offering a more efficient and profitable solution.

The corporation has targeted high-yield districts such as Dagana, Tsirang, Sarpang, and Zhemgang, deploying five collection teams strategically positioned to maximize outreach. Of these, three teams operate in Dagana-Tsirang, while one each covers Sarpang and Zhemgang. By doing so, FCBL ensures farmers in remote areas have access to stable markets and competitive pricing.

“This initiative is a turning point for us,” said Lekimo, a farmer from Mongar who sold 500 kilograms of cardamom to FCBL this year, earning Nu 800,000. “In the past, the prices were unfair, and transporting the produce was expensive. This support has motivated me to expand my farming activities.”

While southern and central Bhutan have long been recognized as the country’s cardamom-growing hubs, this year, FCBL has taken another step by expanding its procurement efforts to the eastern regions. This move signals the corporation’s commitment to creating uniform opportunities for farmers across Bhutan.

Ugyen, the Eastern Regional Manager of FCBL, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative’s impact on farmers in the region. “This is our first time collecting cardamom directly from the east, and it’s a significant step towards market accessibility for farmers here,” he said.

Cardamom is categorized into three quality grades; A, B, and C based on factors such as drying methods and moisture content. Smoke-dried cardamom, renowned for its superior quality, is particularly in demand. Ugyen emphasized the importance of proper drying techniques, adding, “For export purposes, it is essential that cardamom is fully dried to meet international standards.”

The pricing structure for the year sets a minimum price of Nu 1,450 per kilogram and a maximum of Nu 1,550, ensuring farmers receive fair compensation for their efforts. “This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to rural communities, helping them achieve better livelihoods through sustainable farming,” Ugyen explained.
For farmers like Phuntsho Wangdi, a cardamom grower from Mongar, the FCBL initiative has been a game-changer. In the past, Phuntsho and other farmers struggled to secure fair prices for their produce, often resorting to selling to local vendors at low rates.

“This year has been different,” Phuntsho said. “I sold 266 kilograms of cardamom through FCBL and earned Nu 400,000. This is much better than what I used to get before.”
Phuntsho cultivates cardamom on an acre of land and is now planning to expand his operations. Encouraged by the fair pricing and hassle-free procurement process, he is exploring ways to improve his yield and invest in better farming techniques.

“The support from FCBL has been invaluable,” he added. “It has given me the confidence to work harder and invest more in my farm.”
Similarly, Lekimo shared how the initiative has provided her with a stable income, eliminating the need to rely on middlemen or uncertain markets. “This initiative has renewed my hope,” she said. “It feels good to know that my hard work is being valued.”

FCBL’s emphasis on quality is a cornerstone of its strategy. By categorizing cardamom based on drying methods and moisture content, the corporation is helping farmers align their produce with international market standards.
Smoke-dried cardamom, preferred for its superior quality and aroma, fetches higher prices in both domestic and export markets. FCBL is encouraging farmers to adopt proper drying techniques to maximize the value of their produce.

Ugyen stressed the importance of maintaining high standards. “Our focus on quality ensures that Bhutanese cardamom remains competitive in the global market,” he said. “This will not only benefit farmers but also enhance Bhutan’s reputation as a producer of premium spices.”

Cardamom remains a high-value cash crop for rural households, and FCBL’s efforts to stabilize prices and improve quality standards are expected to have long-term benefits.
Beyond individual farmers, the initiative is poised to strengthen Bhutan’s agricultural economy. By providing a reliable market platform, FCBL is fostering sustainable farming practices and encouraging increased production.

The corporation’s intervention comes at a critical time when farmers are seeking stability amid fluctuating market conditions. By removing the uncertainty associated with middlemen and volatile prices, FCBL is creating a more predictable and rewarding environment for agricultural trade.
“This initiative shows that FCBL is committed to uplifting rural communities,” said Lekimo. “It gives us the confidence to invest in our land and future.”

Farmers across Bhutan are optimistic about the future of cardamom farming. With reduced logistical challenges, fair pricing, and a focus on quality, many are now motivated to expand their operations and adopt innovative practices.
“This year has been a turning point for me,” said Phuntsho. “I’m hopeful that such support will continue, allowing us to focus on what we do best, that is farming.”

The initiative has also brought attention to the importance of collaboration between farmers, corporations, and policymakers. By fostering partnerships and addressing the needs of rural communities, Bhutan can ensure the long-term success of its agricultural sector.

With the growing demand for premium spices, FCBL’s focus on cardamom quality positions Bhutan as a strong competitor in the international market. The corporation’s efforts to streamline procurement and promote sustainable practices are expected to enhance the country’s reputation as a reliable source of high-quality cardamom.
“This is just the beginning,” Ugyen said. “Our goal is to support farmers, boost the agricultural economy, and establish Bhutan as a leader in the global spice trade.”