Beekeeping in Crisis: Problems Facing Honey Exporters

Challenges and Solutions: The Future of Apiculture in the Global Market

Reading time : 1 minute, Discovery Chepe Id-796-ECO
Published in 08-28-2025

Innovations to Overcome Beekeeping Issues

A dedicated beekeeper tending to a vibrant beehive. Their care is crucial for the health of these vital pollinators and for the delicious honey they produce. Photo: Bianca Ackermann

Beekeeping is one of the oldest human activities, yet in the 21st century, beekeepers face increasingly complex obstacles. Bees, essential for pollination and global food security, are under pressure from environmental, social and economic factors that threaten their survival. The future of beekeeping is directly linked to the planet's balance.

Main problems
1- Climate change: extreme weather events disrupt flowering cycles, reducing nectar and pollen availability.
2- Pesticide use: agricultural chemicals, especially neonicotinoids, weaken colonies and cause massive mortality.

Beyond Honey: Addressing Sustainability in Export Beekeeping

Photo: Bianca Ackermann
3- Diseases and parasites: the Varroa destructor mite and other pathogens have become persistent enemies.
4- Low profitability: honey prices often fail to compensate the beekeeper's effort, discouraging new generations.

Solutions under development
a) Scientific research: universities and beekeeping centers work on biological control methods against parasites without harming bees.
b) Stricter regulations: in the European Union, certain harmful pesticides have been banned to prioritize pollinator health.
c) Education and awareness: beekeepers' associations promote campaigns to inform the public about the importance of consuming local honey and supporting sustainable production.

International strategies
In Mexico, Mayan beekeepers defend traditional apiculture against monocultures and promote organic honey as a value-added product.
In France, the government supports training programs for young beekeepers and encourages the installation of urban hives.
In United States, technological projects are being developed such as digital hive monitoring to detect diseases early.

Protecting bees is a challenging but achievable task. Joint efforts between beekeepers, scientists, governments and consumers are essential. Beyond honey production, beekeepers safeguard a vital resource for humanity: pollination, which ensures life in ecosystems and global food security.