Saudi Arabia Marks World Bee Day With Historic Honey Production Levels

On World Bee Day, observed on May 20, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture announced that Saudi Arabia's honey production has reached 5,000 tons annually. The National Strategy for Agriculture has played a significant role in increasing the number of registered beekeepers to over 20,000, according to the ministry.

Dr. Ali Al-Sheikhi, Assistant Undersecretary for Livestock and Fisheries at the ministry, highlighted the economic importance of honey. He stated that the ministry has devised a plan to enhance beekeeping and honey production in the Kingdom. Several initiatives have been launched to protect local bee species and boost honey and bee product output.

Through the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program "Reef Saudi," the ministry has supported over 10,000 beekeepers across all regions of the Kingdom. Since its inception, the program has provided SAR140 million in total support for the honey sector.

The ministry has also backed 11 projects in various regions to ensure the sustainability and development of the sector. These projects aim to empower Saudi beekeepers and localize the profession. Training programs have been organized for 1,500 Saudi beekeepers from all regions of the Kingdom.

Specialized training in beekeeping, honey product manufacturing, and marketing has been provided to over 800 beekeepers. Dr. Al-Sheikhi emphasized that the success of Saudi Arabia's beekeeping sector is a testament to the efforts and excellence of Saudi beekeepers.

Saudi beekeepers' commitment to achieving high-quality honey by adhering to international standards has elevated Saudi honey's status worldwide.

With inputs from SPA