Iman Rustam, head of the Bee and Silk Department at the Syrian Ministry of Agriculture, revealed a strategic plan to develop the beekeeping sector, improve the quality of Syrian honey, and enhance its production by providing necessary facilitations for importing beekeeping supplies and making them available in markets. She noted that the Agricultural Cooperative Bank grants medium-term and startup loans to those wishing to enter this sector, alongside efforts to amend and develop the regulations governing it.
In a statement to SANA on Tuesday, she clarified that the Ministry of Agriculture has taken measures to protect local production, including banning honey imports during the production period and requiring imported honey to undergo analysis to ensure compliance with Syrian standards. Products offered in markets are subject to control by supply institutions, as honey is considered a food item.
Securing bee packages for breeders at subsidized prices
Rustam pointed out that work is underway to repair and rehabilitate several breeding centers, in preparation for a plan to sell bee packages to breeders wishing to engage in breeding during the upcoming season at subsidized prices, alongside training specialized technicians capable of transferring expertise and scientific and advisory information to breeders.
Rustam explained that the Ministry's plan also includes expanding the production of nectariferous and pollen-bearing plant seedlings and promoting their cultivation, encouraging participation in marketing exhibitions and festivals, and informing breeders of the importance of utilizing various hive products, including wax, propolis, and royal jelly, and their proper production and marketing methods.
Production challenges
She noted that improved climatic conditions have positively impacted the availability of nectar and pollen sources, and thus honeybee productivity, compared to the negative effects of drought, lack of rain, pasture degradation, and depletion of feeding sources during the previous season.
Rustam pointed out that the current season was not devoid of challenges, as continuous rainfall over long periods affected bee and drone activity in some areas, in addition to the random spraying of pesticides, which poses a challenge to bee health and production stability.
She highlighted that Syrian honey enjoys high quality and a distinguished reputation in foreign markets due to the diversity of its varieties according to different pastures and the natural characteristics of each region. She explained that its prices in the local market range between $10 and $20 per kilogram, depending on the type of honey.
Rustam emphasized the importance of developing beekeeping practices and enhancing breeders' awareness of proper breeding methods, which contributes to maintaining hive health, improving product quality, and increasing this sector's contribution to supporting agricultural production and the local economy.
According to the latest statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture for 2025, the number of honeybee hives reached 289,313, with honey production estimated at 2,427 tons, and beeswax production estimated at 155 tons.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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