rk, NY 10017; telephone [1]
(212) 826-1919; FAX [1] (212) 826-2998; the Bhutanese mission to the
UN has consular jurisdiction in the US
consulate(s) general: New York

Diplomatic representation from the US:
the US and Bhutan have no formal diplomatic relations, although
informal contact is maintained between the Bhutanese and US Embassy
in New Delhi (India)

Flag description:
divided diagonally from the lower hoist side corner; the upper
triangle is yellow and the lower triangle is orange; centered along
the dividing line is a large black and white dragon facing away from
the hoist side

Economy Bhutan

Economy - overview:
The economy, one of the world's smallest and least developed, is
based on agriculture and forestry, which provide the main livelihood
for more than 80% of the population. Agriculture consists largely of
subsistence farming and animal husbandry. Rugged mountains dominate
the terrain and make the building of roads and other infrastructure
difficult and expensive. The economy is closely aligned with India's
through strong trade and monetary links and dependence on India's
financial assistance. The industrial sector is technologically
backward, with most production of the cottage industry type. Most
development projects, such as road construction, rely on Indian
migrant labor. Bhutan's hydropower potential and its attraction for
tourists are key resources. Model education, social, and environment
programs are underway with support from multilateral development
organizations. Each economic program takes into account the
government's desire to protect the country's environment and
cultural traditions. For example, the government, in its cautious
expansion of the tourist sector, encourages visits by upscale,
environmentally conscientious tourists. Detailed controls and
uncertain policies in areas like industrial licensing, trade, labor,
and finance continue to hamper foreign investment.

GDP (purchasing power parity):
$2.9 billion (2003 est.)

GDP (official exchange rate):
$840.5 million (2005 est.)

GDP - real growth rate:
5.9% (2005 est.)

GDP - per capita (PPP):
$1,400 (2003 est.)

GDP - composition by sector:
agriculture: 25.8%
industry: 37.9%
services: 36.3% (2004 est.)

Labor force:
NA
note: major shortage of skilled labor

Labor force - by occupation:
agriculture: 93%
industry: 2%
services: