In Lhuentse, where traditions flourish and natural beauty abounds, a young entrepreneur is redefining how Bhutan approaches healthy and sustainable food. Tshering Deki, is the founder of Minkai, a company specializing in dehydrated food products, and the co-founder of KDY Production, a venture she manages alongside her sister. Her passion for quality food and a vision to uplift local communities have placed her at the forefront of Bhutan’s burgeoning food industry.
Tshering’s journey began with an academic foundation in English literature, which she completed in 2019. However, her career trajectory took a unique turn when she decided to venture into entrepreneurship. Inspired by Bhutan’s natural abundance of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, she saw an opportunity to create value-added products that not only promote healthy living but also support local farmers.
“I was inspired to start this business because of my passion for providing quality food products and my desire to contribute to our community using modern technology and methods,” she explains “Seeing the potential in producing dehydrated food and healthy drinks, and recognizing how rich our country is in natural herbs, motivated me to create something beneficial for others while promoting local agriculture.”
Tshering credits her inspiration to Bhutan’s visionary leadership, which encourages sustainable development and self-reliance. Rather than seeking opportunities abroad, she chose to channel her efforts into building a business that aligns with her values and the needs of her community.
At Minkai, Tshering offers a diverse range of products, from dried vegetables like ferns, pumpkins, and mushrooms to dried fruits such as pears, apples, and persimmons. Her product line includes teas made
from mistletoe, mixed herbs, and Bhutan’s iconic Jari tea. Additionally, Minkai produces powders and spices like turmeric, Sichuan pepper, and yellow dock root.
Complementing her work at Minkai, Tshering’s role at KDY Production focuses on crafting Dock Roots drinks and powdered products. These are created using a blend of traditional recipes and modern techniques, offering a unique taste and health benefits. “What sets my business apart is our commitment to quality and the unique products we offer,” Tshering states. “We prioritize sourcing ingredients locally and ensuring that our dehydrated products retain their nutritional value.”
This approach has not only differentiated her brands in the competitive market but also highlighted her dedication to sustainability and local empowerment.
As with any entrepreneurial journey, Tshering’s path has not been without obstacles. One of her biggest
challenges has been navigating market fluctuations and dealing with competitors offering similar products. “Local vendors often sell similar items, and varying price promotions greatly influence buyer decisions,” she notes.
To address these challenges, Tshering employs a combination of strategies. She emphasizes adaptability, regularly analyzing market trends and consumer preferences to stay ahead. By fostering strong customer relationships and engaging with her audience through social media and events like the Tshechu fair and Tshongrig Gatoen, she builds a loyal customer base that values her brand’s uniqueness.
Modern tools and technologies have also been instrumental in her operations. With equipment like dehydrators, cutting machines, and juice filters, she has streamlined production processes while maintaining high hygiene standards. Marketing through social media platforms and leveraging data analytics have further helped her reach wider audiences and make data-driven decisions.
For Tshering, one of the most rewarding aspects of her journey has been seeing her products gain recognition in the market. Successfully launching both Minkai and KDY Production has been a significant achievement, as has building a strong team that shares her vision for sustainability and quality. “The impact we’ve made in our community through local sourcing and sustainable practices is something I’m incredibly proud of,” she shares.
Tshering’s ambitions for her business extend beyond current successes. She foresees expanding her product line to include more innovative and healthy options, increasing her market presence locally and regionally, and fostering a sustainable business model that continues to support local farmers.
“My long-term goal is to build a strong brand that resonates with consumers and promotes healthy living in Bhutan,” she expresses. “Ultimately, I want to contribute positively to our community and inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.” Her vision aligns closely with Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness, focusing on economic growth that uplifts communities and preserves cultural and environmental heritage.
Reflecting on her journey, Tshering emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s vision and values. “Focus on building a strong foundation based on quality and customer relationships,” she advises. “Be adaptable to challenges and market changes, and always seek feedback to improve your products.”
She also highlights the importance of cultivating a supportive network. “Surround yourself with people
who believe in your vision, and don’t shy away from learning from both successes and setbacks,” she
adds.
For Tshering, the decision to build her business in Bhutan is deeply personal. “I believe being in Bhutan allows me to contribute to the local community and support the growth of our economy,” she shares. “The inspiration from our kings and good leaders motivates me to focus on building my business here, where I can make a meaningful impact rather than seeking opportunities abroad. There’s something special about nurturing our roots and helping our community thrive.”
Through her work at Minkai and KDY Production, Tshering Deki is not only creating high-quality food
products but also paving the way for a healthier, more self-reliant Bhutan. Her journey serves as an inspiring reminder that passion, perseverance, and a commitment to community can lead to remarkable achievements.
