The European Beekeepers Association (EBA) has appealed to the European Commission not to increase the quota for duty-free imports of Ukrainian honey from 6,000 to 35,000 tons per year. The organization expressed concerns about the quality of imported products, emphasizing the need for the implementation of “more reliable” control systems.
This is reported by Business • Media
Concerns of European Beekeepers Regarding Honey Imports
According to the EBA, the European honey market is currently under pressure from cheaper imported honey, which often has questionable quality and not always has a clear origin. Due to the lack of effective quality control mechanisms, this situation could negatively impact local producers. The association emphasizes that while it supports aid to Ukraine, it is crucial to consider the interests of European farmers, especially in the sensitive beekeeping sector.
“Any new trade agreement must also take into account the interests of European farmers, particularly in the sensitive beekeeping sector.”
Ukrainian Honey Market: Decreased Volumes and Rising Prices
In 2025, Ukrainian beekeepers managed to collect only about 20% of the planned honey volumes. This has led to an increase in prices for key product types. Linden honey is currently sold for ₴500-600 per liter, with some prices reaching ₴700. Buckwheat honey costs up to ₴800 per liter. Acacia, lavender, and coriander honey have become even more expensive.
Large wholesalers are facing a shortage of honey to fulfill export contracts to European and U.S. countries, complicating the positions of Ukrainian suppliers in the international market.