Taiwan honey production expected to improve

台灣蜂蜜產量可望提高

Beekeepers anticipate 10-20% boost in output


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taiwan Beekeepers Association stated Monday that honey production is expected to improve this year after years of decline due to warm winters.

According to Association Secretary-General Lee Wang-ching (李旺清), flowering conditions have been excellent this year, with beekeepers nearly completing lychee nectar collection and shifting focus to longan nectar. However, fluctuating temperatures and several cold snaps, with frequent lows below 18 C, have affected nectar flow, per CNA.

Honorary Chairman Cheng Chin-kun (鄭金崑) estimated that honey production has been 10-20% higher than last year. Despite the promising bloom, localized pest infestations in parts of Taichung and Tainan have reduced bee survival rates by 30-40%, further impacting output.

The number of participants in the annual honey quality evaluations indicates production trends. In strong production years before the warm winters, over 200 beekeepers registered, while last year’s poor yields saw participation drop to around 80.

This year, production is expected to return to levels similar to 2023, when about 190 beekeepers took part.

Meanwhile, consumer spending remains cautious. Domestically certified and traceable honey is expected to sell for around NT$600 (US$18) per 700ml bottle, while award-winning varieties could fetch up to NT$1,000.

To boost sales, the association has launched a new gift set featuring two 250ml bottles, offering consumers a more flexible purchasing option. The annual honey evaluation is now open for registration, with awards scheduled to be announced in July or August.