Despite a growing domestic beekeeping industry, Nepali honey producers continue to face major marketing challenges, with around 21 tonnes of honey currently sitting unsold, according to the Federation of Nepal Beekeepers.
Last year, 2081 BS–mid-April 2024 to mid-April 2025), approximately 69 tonnes of honey remained unsold—a figure that only declined after Dabur Nepal purchased a portion of the stock. Beekeepers say this highlights a persistent market disconnect rather than a lack of demand.
IN PHOTOS: National Honey Fair Generates Buzz for Nepal’s Beekeepers
“The problem isn’t demand—it’s consumer trust,” said Rajendra Gautam, former president of the Nepal Beekeepers’ Association. “There’s a widespread misconception that domestically produced honey is fake, and that has seriously hurt sales. Government support is vital for promoting Nepali honey.”
Beekeepers from across Nepal are currently exhibiting their products at the 6th National Honey Fair, underway at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, where a wide variety of honey is on display alongside beekeeping tools and technologies.
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The three-day event, officially inaugurated on Thursday by Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ramnath Adhikari, aims to raise awareness of Nepal’s beekeeping potential and boost public confidence in domestic honey. Organized by the Federation of Nepal Beekeepers, the fair runs through Saturday, June 7.
Subash Chandra Ghimire, Chairman of the Federation and coordinator of the fair, said, “The event not only showcases honey varieties but also educates on marketing, technologies, and the different species of bees being raised in Nepal.”
Over 40 stalls have been set up, featuring honey, hives, pollen, propolis, hats, brushes, and other apiculture-related items. Farmers from all seven provinces are participating. A dedicated discussion on the state of honeybees and the future of beekeeping has also been held as part of the fair.
According to the Beekeeping Development Centre in Bhandara, Chitwan, Nepal exports honey worth over Rs 50 million annually. However, industry experts say that aligning domestic production with international standards could help unlock a far more lucrative export market.
Still, structural and environmental challenges remain. Beekeepers cite rising costs due to declining forage availability and increased use of pesticides. Additionally, farmers must secure a government license to sell honey, and not all have access to the required processing units.
Bikash Nepal, who runs the B and B Honey Firm in Chitwan’s Kalika Municipality, said such fairs are critical to improving honey marketing and building trust.
Januka Thapa, President of the Nepal Beekeeping Central Cooperative Association, emphasized the need to organize farmers to develop effective sales strategies.
There are currently over 12,000 colonies of the native Serena bee and 6,500 colonies of the Mellifera bee, maintained by more than 700 and 270 farmers, respectively, under the federation’s network.
(With inputs from RSS)
