Country Profile: Bhutan

Bhutan, a landlocked kingdom located in Southern Asia, is nestled between China and India. The nation is characterized by its mountainous terrain and varied climate, ranging from tropical in the southern plains to severe winters in the Himalayas. With a population of approximately 884,546 in 2024, Bhutan's economy is notably driven by hydropower investments, underscoring its significance in fostering growth and development. Governed as a constitutional monarchy, Bhutan emphasizes Gross National Happiness as a key principle in its policies, illustrating a unique approach to national well-being.

Geography

Bhutan is situated in Southern Asia, sharing borders with China to the north and India to the south. The country is predominantly mountainous with fertile valleys and savanna, covering a total area of 38,394 square kilometers. Its highest point, Gangkar Puensum, rises to 7,570 meters, while the mean elevation is 2,220 meters, significantly contributing to its scenic beauty.

100%: The country is landlocked with 0 km of coastline.
1,136 km: Total land boundaries with India and China.
71.6%: Forested area of Bhutan, highlighting its rich natural resources.

People and Society

As of 2024, Bhutan has a population of approximately 884,546, with a diverse cultural composition primarily consisting of Ngalop and ethnic Nepali groups. The official language is Dzongkha, and the predominant religion is Lamaistic Buddhism. The population exhibits a relatively youthful demographic, with a median age of 30.7 years and a birth rate of 15.3 births per 1,000 people.

44.4%: Urban population as of 2023.
67%: Literacy rate reported in 2017.
73.7 years: Life expectancy at birth in 2024.

Economy

Bhutan's economy has shown resilience, with a real GDP (PPP) estimated at $11.517 billion in 2023, underpinned by investments in hydropower. The economy is largely service-based, with 52.7% of GDP derived from services. The country maintains strong monetary and fiscal policies, alongside low inflation rates.

4.9%: Projected GDP growth rate for 2023.
2.9%: Unemployment rate expected in 2024.
15%: Contribution of agriculture to GDP in 2023.

Government

Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy, with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck serving as the head of state since 2006. The Parliament is bicameral, consisting of the National Assembly and the National Council. The constitution, ratified in 2008, embeds democratic principles and enables a gradual transition toward broader political participation.

20: Administrative divisions (dzongkhag) in Bhutan.
18: Minimum voting age, ensuring universal suffrage.
4.3%: Percentage of women in the National Assembly as of 2024.

Military and Security

The Royal Bhutan Army (RBA), estimated at 7,000 to 8,000 active personnel, is primarily tasked with external defense and internal security operations. Volunteer military service is available for both men and women, with no conscription. Bhutan's military collaborations are notably linked with India, reinforcing their security partnership.

190: Bhutanese military personnel deployed in the Central African Republic (2024).
18: Minimum age for voluntary military service.
86.681 million kWh: Electricity transmission and distribution losses in 2023.

Energy

Bhutan boasts a fully electrified population, relying 100% on hydroelectricity for its energy needs. The country exports a significant amount of its electricity, showcasing its rich hydropower resources.

2.344 million kW: Installed electricity generating capacity in 2023.
11.914 billion kWh: Total electricity consumption recorded in 2023.
6 billion kWh: Electricity exports in 2020.

Environment

Bhutan faces various environmental issues, including soil erosion and wildlife conservation. The country is a signatory to multiple international environmental agreements, demonstrating its commitment to addressing climate change and preserving biodiversity.

71.6%: Percentage of land covered by forests as of 2022.
100%: Access to electricity reported in 2022.
78 billion cubic meters: Total renewable water resources available in 2020.

Transportation

Bhutan's transportation infrastructure includes 4 airports and 8 heliports, with a civil aircraft registration code prefix of A5. The nation's unique geography presents challenges and opportunities for transportation development.

4: Total airports projected by 2025.
8: Total heliports projected by 2025.

Communications

Bhutan has made strides in telecommunications, with approximately 752,000 mobile cellular subscriptions as of 2023. The internet penetration rate stands at 88%, reflecting improved connectivity.

18,000: Fixed-line telephone subscriptions as of 2023.
88%: Population accessing the internet in 2023.
10,000: Fixed broadband subscriptions recorded in 2023.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	884,546	Estimate for 2024
Area	38,394 sq km	Total area
GDP (PPP)	$11.517 billion	Estimate for 2023
Unemployment Rate	2.9%	Projected for 2024
Life Expectancy	73.7 years	Estimate for 2024
Birth Rate	15.3 births/1,000	Estimate for 2024
Education Expenditure (% of GDP)	5.8%	Estimate for 2023
Total Energy Consumption	64.082 million Btu/person	Estimate for 2023
Urban Population	44.4%	Percentage of total population in 2023
Fixed-line Subscriptions	18,000	Estimate for 2023