In recent years, with advancements in technology and the Internet, those active in agriculture have increasingly pursued exporting their products. Honey export, though a longstanding interest of traders, has taken on a new importance for beekeepers. High exchange rates have motivated many farmers and livestock breeders to invest in beekeeping as a way to increase their earnings through honey exports.
All progressive actions require adherence to specific frameworks and regulations, and honey export is no exception. While the profits can be substantial, exporters must remain vigilant and prioritize quality production to avoid potential pitfalls. This article first examines the benefits of exporting Iranian honey to the Persian Gulf and Europe, then discusses production, packaging, and required certifications.
Benefits of Exporting Iranian Honey
Honey is one of Iran’s most promising export products. Alongside honey, beekeepers produce various valuable products, such as bee pollen, royal jelly, bee bread, and beeswax, that are in demand across industries. Besides its use in food and confectionery, honey is also widely used in pharmaceuticals, candle-making, and cosmetics, offering an attractive export market. Being a natural product, honey is relatively easy to export compared to other food products, as it requires fewer compliance standards.
Honey Production and Export Status in Iran
Honey is highly popular worldwide and finds applications in a wide range of industries. The global honey market is about 1.83 million tons annually, with approximately 77,000 tons produced in Iran. Iran’s diverse climate, from central deserts to Jiroft’s citrus orchards and the Alborz and Zagros mountains, enables the production of unique, high-quality honeys, which compete well in the global market.
According to Iran’s customs data for 2021, Iranian honey exports reached $45 million (about 10,000 tons), with the main destinations including Persian Gulf countries, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the United Kingdom.
Stages of Honey Export
Packaging Process and Health Standards
Proper honey packaging is essential to attracting and retaining foreign customers. Attractive, visually appealing packaging is particularly important in competitive markets. Provinces such as Lorestan, Kurdistan, Hamedan, and Ardabil are significant sources of export-quality honey, though high-quality honey is also produced in other regions.
Export-grade packaging typically involves plastic or glass containers, which range in design from simple to creative. The use of a standard label and securely closed lids is crucial to ensure quality during transport. Hexagonal containers, resembling beehives, or cylindrical jars are popular options. These containers are often placed in protective cases, like durable cardboard boxes, to prevent damage during transportation.
Creative and attractive packaging enhances brand image and builds trust among foreign buyers, while premium packaging combined with high-quality honey can help attract new customers and foster long-term trade relationships.
Obtaining Necessary Certifications and Standards
To export honey from Iran, exporters must acquire approvals from regulatory bodies. Key certifications include health and veterinary approvals, ensuring honey meets international market standards. For packaged honey exports, a certification from the National Iranian Standards Organization is also required. Additionally, a commercial card is essential for export activities, though some customs companies offer facilitation services for businesses using leased commercial cards.
Target Markets for Honey Export
High-Demand Markets (Europe, the Middle East, Asia)
Iranian honey is in high demand in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, each presenting unique opportunities. European countries, which prioritize quality and hygiene standards, offer promising destinations for premium Iranian honey. The Middle East, given its geographic proximity and preference for natural Iranian products, is another attractive market. Finally, Asian countries, such as China and Japan, are increasingly interested in organic and healthy products, making them promising targets for Iranian honey exports.
Analyzing Demand for Iranian Honey in International Markets
Iranian honey is highly valued in international markets due to its quality and unique, natural flavors. In Europe, demand is high for natural and organic honeys with distinctive flavors, and Iranian honey has gained popularity among European buyers. In the Middle East, the health benefits of honey have spurred a growing demand, with many countries eager to import high-quality Iranian honey. In Asia, increasing awareness of honey’s benefits is boosting demand in markets like China and Japan.
Opportunities and Challenges for Each Target Market
- Europe: The main opportunity in Europe lies in the demand for organic honey and internationally certified products. However, tariff barriers and stringent health and quality regulations present significant challenges for entry.
- Middle East: The cultural and geographic proximity makes the Middle East an appealing market for Iranian exporters. Many countries are interested in Iranian honey, yet competitive pricing and competition from imported honeys pose challenges.
- Asia: The large population and growing interest in organic products make Asia an excellent market for Iranian honey. However, competition from major honey producers within Asia and varied packaging and quality standards present challenges in this region.
Conclusion
With careful and principled honey production, adherence to hygiene standards in harvesting and packaging, and creative branding and marketing, Iran has the potential to produce top-quality honey and bee products suitable for export globally. At Boomi Group, we welcome collaborations for exporting supermarket products. For more information, please contact us.