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Import to Bhutan
As the gateway to the Himalayas, Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, offers a unique and exciting market for international trade. However, navigating its import regulations can be daunting and requires the help of an Importer of Record.
Tax
up to 10%
Duties
up to12%
Lead Times
9-10 weeks
Restricted Items
Wireless and Second-Hand Goods
Best Carrier Option
Courier or Freight Forwarder
Non-Working Days
Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays
Prominent Langauge
Dzongkha
The Trade Landscape of Bhutan
Bhutan presents a unique case for international trade. While its natural beauty and cultural heritage attract attention, navigating the trade landscape brings challenges and exciting possibilities.
Although a small country, Bhutan has immense potential. With a conscious focus on sustainable development, Bhutan is witnessing significant growth in its hydropower sector, with most of its energy exports being supplied to India. This is further enhanced through Bhutan’s long-term free trade agreement with India, which ultimately eases trade between the two countries.
Population
0.707M
Biggest Industry by Export
Hydropower
Capital City
Thimphu
Biggest Industry by Import
Minerals
Unique Pain Points for Imports to Bhutan
Second-Hand and Wireless Goods
Shipping second-hand goods into Bhutan is allowed but requires extra documentation and price valuations. TecEx experts will ensure that second-hand goods are correctly valued and compliant with Bhutan customs to allow seamless entry and avoid delays.
Restrictions on wireless goods are also prevalent for imports to Bhutan. Hence, it is crucial to ensure that all wireless goods have the correct documentation and are compliant with customs. TecEx has experience shipping these goods into Bhutan and will take care of this on your behalf.
Limited Infrastructure
Bhutan, considered a developing country, faces challenges of limited infrastructure. This includes disruptive road networks and storage solutions, which have made transporting bulk goods into Bhutan significantly more challenging, costly, and time-consuming.
There is also a greater risk of natural disasters such as monsoons, which further add challenges regarding the trade landscape.
Landlocked Nation
Bhutan is landlocked and has no direct access to seaports and global shipping routes. This means that all shipments into Bhutan must go via India first, a term referred to as transshipping. This can lead to added time and logistical costs, creating an extra administrative hurdle.
Countries Associated with Bhutan
Asia
Bangladesh
Asia
China
Specialized Solution for Imports into Bhutan
TecEx can be your one-stop DDP solution for navigating the unique complexities of trading with Bhutan. Forget the tangled mess of Bhutan’s import regulations. We simplify your trade journey with comprehensive solutions that handle the nitty-gritty, from import paperwork to customs complexities.
With our strong network within Bhutan and expertise in navigating its challenging terrain, we can save you time and resources, removing any added stress.
Specific Compliance Regulations
Documentation and the eCMS system
Bhutan has strict customs regulations, with customs agents having the authority to inspect, fine, or confiscate goods at Bhutanian customs. Ensuring the correct rules are followed is crucial, where TecEx will gather all the necessary documents, such as an airwaybill, commercial invoice, packing list, and an import permit.
All the required documents must also be submitted via the Electronic Customs Management System (eCMS), Bhutan’s digital platform for managing customs procedures. The system can be an administrative burden, but our in-country experts will ensure everything is accurately gathered to get your tech goods into Bhutan.
Ready to Navigate Imports to Bhutan?
Fill in the form, and one of our trade experts will contact you, providing you with a personalised solution for your import needs into Bhutan.
