Bhutan: Asian Development Bank Member Fact Sheet 2018

Abstract

Bhutan is one of the fastest-growing economies in South Asia. Economic growth has averaged 7.5% a year over the past 3 decades and the country’s poverty rate was cut more than half in a decade, falling from 23% in 2007 to 8.2% in 2017. Yet, the challenge remains for Bhutan to expand its economic base and make growth more inclusive, especially for unemployed youth and women. Developing a vibrant private sector is key to diversifying Bhutan’s economy, generating a more broad-based growth, and creating sustainable jobs. Since 1982, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has supported Bhutan through various programs, mainly in energy, transport, finance, and urban development. ADB has committed loans totaling $534.06 million, grants of $269.22 million, and technical assistance of $53.75 million for the country.