Archive · 20 Aug 2025
Trump's Tariffs Threaten India's Honey Industry
India's honey business grew a lot recently, with many new beekeepers and higher production.
They export most honey, especially to America.
However, beekeepers are now struggling due to lower prices and potential tariffs from the US.
Plus, some worry about fake honey mixed with sugar.
These issues make it harder for beekeepers, but the industry overall is still big and important.
Also, it seems that the population of the native bee species are in decline, which is an environmental concern.
India's honey industry saw significant growth, but faces challenges.
Exports are a major part of India's honey business, especially to the US.
Threat of tariffs from the US and falling international prices hurt beekeepers.
Adulteration with sugar syrups and the impact on prices is a major concern.
Decline of native bee species is a worry for the environment and farmers.
- Who
- Beekeepers, exporters, and consumers are impacted by the current issues.
- What
- India's honey industry faces challenges, including price drops and potential US tariffs.
- When
- Production rose between 2016-17 and 2024-25. The US tariffs are a current threat.
- Where
- Honey is produced across India and exported mainly to the United States.
- Why
- Falling prices, rising costs, and potential tariffs threaten the honey industry.
Beekeepers' Perspective
Processors/Brands Perspective
Pricing and Adulteration
Beekeepers' Perspective
Beekeepers struggle to make ends meet, as the cost of labor and transportation goes up, but the honey price barely moves. They also think that the adulteration of honey impacts the price of the natural one.
Processors/Brands Perspective
Brands and processors tend to brush away the concerns around the adulteration of honey with sugar syrups.
- Honey Production Growth (2016-2025)
- 7% CAGR
- Estimated Number of Beekeepers
- Over 70,000
- 2024-25 Honey Exports
- 100,773 tonnes
- Export Value (2024-25)
- ₹1,750 crore
- Farmgate Price Drop
- ₹150-170 per kg (2021) to ₹90-110 per kg
- US Import of Indian Honey (2024-25)
- 79,720 tonnes