India’s honey production is projected to increase by about 5% in 2026, yet export prices could fall up to 20% compared with last year. While China’s output steadies and Brazil commands premium rates, Indian honey struggles for better market value.

  • India’s honey output may reach 154,000 tonnes in 2026
  • Export price forecast down roughly 20% to $1,645/ton
  • Brazil remains the most expensive honey, price rising to $3,390/ton

India’s honey production continues an upward trajectory, climbing from 146,000 tonnes in 2025 to an estimated 154,000 tonnes in 2026. This growth places India just behind China, whose output is projected to rise from 530,000 tonnes in 2025 to 550,000 tonnes next year.

Despite higher volumes, Indian honey is not commanding better prices abroad. A joint APEDA‑CRISIL report notes that while 2025 saw Indian honey fetching about $2,050 per tonne, the price could dip to $1,645 per tonne in 2026 – a potential 20% decline.

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Conversely, Brazil’s honey remains the priciest on the global market, expected to climb from $3,240 per tonne in 2025 to $3,390 per tonne in 2026. China and Ukraine are forecasted to see modest price reductions.

Historical Background

Over the past two decades, beekeeping in India has been a cornerstone of rural livelihood strategies, supported by government subsidies and APEDA’s export‑orientation programs. Since 2010, APEDA has helped numerous Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) meet international quality standards through training, certification assistance, and market linkage support.

These initiatives drove a 30% production surge between 2015 and 2020, yet the lack of strong branding and consistent quality assurance kept export values relatively flat on the world stage.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the erosion of export prices threatens farmer incomes, national food‑security goals, and India’s overall trade balance. Without corrective measures, investment in beekeeping could wane, undermining diversification strategies for Indian agriculture.

"Investing in premium‑grade packaging and internationally recognised certification is essential for Indian honey to regain price stability," says agricultural economist Dr. Anjali Rao.
Did You Know?: Only about 2% of Indian beekeepers produce premium‑grade honey, compared with over 15% of producers worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is the drop in export price mainly due to quality issues?

A: The primary factors are limited certification, inconsistent packaging standards, and strong competition from Brazil and the United States, which command premium pricing.

Q2: What steps is the government taking to boost honey exports?

A: Through APEDA, several FPOs receive marketing support, quality‑training, and financial subsidies aimed at opening new overseas markets.