Extension of Minimum Export Price (MEP) on Honey
On Monday, the Indian government extended the Minimum Export Price (MEP) of $2,000 per tonne for natural honey until December 2025. This extension was crucial as the initial MEP was set to expire on December 31, 2024. The MEP ensures that honey exports will only be permitted if the price per tonne meets or exceeds this threshold. This step is expected to help stabilize the market and ensure quality exports.

Honey Export Statistics and Key Export Destinations
India, being one of the largest exporters of natural honey, shipped over 1.07 lakh tonnes worth approximately Rs 1,471 crore during the 2023-24 financial year. Major destinations for Indian honey include the United States, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. The North East region and Maharashtra are the primary honey-producing areas in the country, contributing significantly to this export volume.

Government Support for Beekeeping and Honey Industry
The government has been actively supporting the beekeeping industry through the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission, which has provided assistance to over 102 projects, amounting to Rs 133.31 crore. This support is aimed at enhancing honey production and export potential in the country.