The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock of Afghanistan says that significant progress has been made in honey production across the country, with around 3,200 active beekeeping farms currently operating.
The ministry adds that nearly 2,200 metric tons of honey are produced annually in Afghanistan. It also says it is working to further expand support for beekeepers in order to enhance sector capacity and improve honey marketing.
According to the ministry, Afghan honey is considered unique in terms of quality in the region, and technical and economic support for the sector will continue.
Meanwhile, several beekeepers and business owners say they are still facing a number of challenges.
They note that due to the closure of routes with Pakistan, some beekeeping farms remain stranded in that country and are at risk of being damaged or destroyed due to extreme heat.
Some farmers also say that staying in Afghanistan during the winter season has negatively affected their beekeeping operations and caused production challenges.
Stakeholders in the sector emphasize that with serious steps in opening trade routes, improving market access, and providing technical support, Afghanistan’s honey industry could achieve a stronger position both domestically and in international markets.
