Diversification of Bee Products Boost Country’s Economy
Turkey’s honey industry is buzzing with success, as the country ranks 3rd in the world for the number of hives and 2nd in honey production, according to Ziya Şahin. With 9.2 million bees and 115 thousand tons of honey produced annually, Turkey is making a significant impact globally.
Şahin highlighted Turkey’s rich flora diversity, with 13,414 plant species, 4,319 of which are endemic. This diversity supports honey production and positions Turkey as a leader in Europe for honey quality.
To maintain and enhance this success, Şahin emphasized the importance of establishing standards for all bee products. Turkey has been collaborating with 34 countries through ISO to develop international standards for honey varieties such as pine, astragalus, chestnut, and more.
In terms of exports, Turkey shipped 9,389 tons of honey last year, generating $32 million in revenue. Germany, the USA, Spain, and Saudi Arabia were among the top importing countries, with growing demand from the United Arab Emirates, Japan, and China.
In addition to honey, Turkey produces beeswax, royal jelly, propolis, and other bee products. With domestic production exceeding demand, Turkey has become an exporter in these categories, with China and Brazil expressing interest in Turkish propolis.
However, challenges such as rising costs, fraud in honey quality, and the need for more support for beekeepers, especially women farmers, still persist. Şahin emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to sustain and expand Turkey’s success in the bee products industry.
