These corporations provide a wide range of services from seed production to insurance, but lack qualified and skilled staff. It is vital for the economy and for the development of basic services that these corporations become more efficient and profitable. Bhutan may be relatively small, but its rugged, Himalayan terrain means that access to and delivery of services can be extremely difficult, with remote villages up to nine days walk from the nearest road.
Youth unemployment is now a major issue.
For the first time in its history, Bhutan has less than full employment. In addition, there is a shortage of skilled and qualified workers in many areas as general development and technological innovations run ahead of training. There is mounting pressure on the main urban centres and controlled urban development of major towns is a main government priority. In addition, there are plans to build up to 32 satellite townships in the districts. In 1989, the King introduced a code of national etiquette designed to protect national culture and language from perceived external encroachment.