NEWS & EVENTS

As 2024 draws to a close, FCBL is delighted to share the successful market facilitation through the procurement of 159.22 metric tons (MT) of cardamom from farmers across the country, valuing Nu. 263.13 million. Cardamom cultivation has long been a vital livelihood for many rural households, but challenges such as high transportation costs and dependence on middlemen have often hindered farmers from realizing fair profits. To address these concerns, FCBL deployed five dedicated teams to purchase cardamom directly from farmers' doorsteps. This initiative was aimed to provide access to stable markets and competitive pricing, even in the most remote corners of the country. The procurement operations took place at various strategically located collection points and auction yards, resulting in 116.40 MT from Gelephu Auction Yard, which was the highest procurement site. Dagana and Tsirang contributed 19.58 MT, while Jigmecholing and Chudzom yielded 16.80 MT. Samdrup Jongkhar Auction Yard saw 5.02 MT, and Zhemgang and Korphu provided 1.42 MT. The pricing structure for 2024 was to ensure a fair compensation, with farmers receiving a minimum of Nu. 1,575 per kilogram and a maximum of Nu. 1,776 per kilogram. As a high-value cash crop, cardamom remains a cornerstone of rural livelihoods. FCBL's efforts to facilitate its marketing, stabilize prices and enhance quality standards are anticipated to yield long-term benefits for our Bhutan's agricultural sector. This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering trust and support of our farmers, partners, and stakeholders. FCBL extends its heartfelt gratitude to all involved in making this initiative a success.