Here come the politicians for your votes. For your votes they will promise you the sun and the moon, starting now! Story from Bhutan Times.

September 9, 2007 -Thimphu: Admitting the ‘lack of serious consultation’ and ‘feeling of suspicion’ between the private sector and the government, Druk Phuensum Tshogpa’s draft election manifesto declares increased support for the sector if the party gets to power.

Single window facility for all business procedures, liberalization of licensing, special boost for IT sector, attracting foreign direct investment, tax incentives in selected areas, and special economic zones along the southern border are key features of the party’s private sector policy.

At present a new private venture has to knock on the doors of several government agencies to get the business running. Acknowledging the presence of middlemen who exploit entrepreneurs, the proposal for a single window system from where all procedures can be completed for running a business will be a relief for the private sector.

The draft manifesto also considers de-licensing areas which do not pollute the environment, deplete natural resources and does not have negative impacts on culture. Observers count this as a revolutionary step toward empowering the low income group economically. If implemented, cottage industries, small pan shops, etc. can run a business by just registering with the trade ministry.

If elected to power, the DPT government will nurture the IT sector to a sustainable industry that would provide ‘substantial employment.’ The draft manifesto also focuses to maximize the benefits of the cyber highway through which Bhutan can break geographical barriers. Special focus will be given to industries like call centers and animation.

Regarding foreign direct investment and special economic zones, the party is cautious.

The draft manifesto talks of attracting the ‘right kinds of FDI…in socially and environmentally responsible ways.’ Even while talking about reaping the benefits of free trade with India by establishing special economic zones in the southern border, the ‘problem of costly logistics will be carefully studied.’

While acknowledging the need for foreign partnerships in ‘large and technical complex projects’ the draft manifesto suggests regulations that would help local firms build capacities based on Bhutanese ethos.

The party would encourage the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BCCI) to be more ‘professional, democratic and transparent.’

Public transport systems in urban areas would be improved. The draft manifesto talks of ‘special incentives for taxis and buses’ even though the clause is not elaborated. Interestingly, the brief manifesto also specifically talks about attending to the ‘needs and problems faced by the workshops.’

The draft manifesto is concerned about the ‘frequent changes and inconsistencies’ in government policies which hampers private sector growth. Even though, at this point, the party has not mentioned the specifics of their policy, the draft manifesto says that the ‘private sector will be facilitated by a predictable and reliable business environment.’

The draft manifesto considers the private sector as the ‘main determinant of the nation’s economic health.’ Even though the party promises not to hinder, it stresses on a ‘socially responsible’ private sector growth.