Bhutan is among the richest by gross domestic product (nominal) per capita in South Asia, at $3,491 as of 2022, but it still places 153rd, and among the poorest in the world.

Each economic program takes into account the government's desire to protect the country's environment and cultural traditions.

Detailed controls and uncertain policies in areas such as industrial licensing, trade, labour, and finance continue to hamper foreign investment.

[16][17] This is a chart of trend of gross domestic product of Bhutan at market prices [1] by the International Monetary Fund:

The Bhutanese Government has made some progress in expanding the nation's productive base and improving social welfare.