CHITWAN: Federation of Beekeepers Nepal has released updated data on the number of Apis mellifera (Western or European honey bee) colonies kept for commercial production, along with current honey output figures.
According to the Federation, 2175 farmers are engaged in commercial beekeeping nationwide, collectively managing 115,183 hives. Annual honey production from these operations is 4,192 tonnes. The details were shared during a press meet held today in Bharatpur.
The Federation has also expressed strong objection to the government’s recent decision to allow multinational companies to import honey under a quota system. The ministerial-level decision, made on September 23, has enraged honey producers, said Federation outgoing Chair Shiva Prasad Sharma Paudel.
Based on the country’s floral resources, Nepal has the potential to produce up to 30,000 metric tonnes of honey annually.
At present, combined honey production from Apis mellifera and Apis cerana stands at around 6,000 metric tonnes. Farmers are struggling with market access, and the government should support them by purchasing at least half of their total production, Paudel stressed.
According to the region-wise honey production figures, it is estimated that 318 bee farmers in Chitwan will produce 1,070 tonnes of honey from 26,750 beehives, while 350 farmers in Dang will produce 1,040 tonnes of honey from 26,000 beehives.
Likewise, it is estimated that 300 farmers in Morang will produce 226 tonnes of honey from 6,500 hives, and 500 farmers in Jhapa will produce 280 tonnes of honey from 8,000 hives.
Other districts producing honey include Pyuthan, Sarlahi, Makawanpur and Kapilvastu.
Commercial beekeeping has been practised in more than 30 districts of the country. The Federation said that only farmers keeping more than 10 hives are registered with it. However, there are many bee farmers who keep fewer than 10 hives.
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