Morocco’s Honey Crisis: Climate Change Stings Beekeepers’ Hopes

According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, national honey production has seen a decline estimated at nearly 80% in some regions, even though rainfall has been abundant in the spring. A quantity that is far from generous. "The rains had revived the pastures and raised the hope of an exceptional season," but "the expected honey did not materialize," explain many beekeepers.

Beekeeping represents a total or partial source of income for more than 36,000 operators, the Ministry of Agriculture recalls. While the sector was supposed to reach the target of 10,000 tons of honey set by the agricultural strategy launched seventeen years ago, production is plateauing around 8,000 tons, despite a tripling of the number of hives, from 160,000 to 500,000.

Despite a great plant diversity favorable to beekeeping: eucalyptus, sunflower, rapeseed, thyme, rosemary, lavender, wormwood..., allowing the production of renowned honeys such as thyme, carob or jujube, summer rains and climate change have a negative impact on the functioning of the colonies. Nevertheless, beekeepers have noted an improvement in the quality of honey from citrus orchards and herbaceous meadows this year compared to previous seasons.

Regarding the economic aspect, operating costs are increasing, but selling prices are stagnant. Beekeepers denounce the competition from imported products and parallel online sales channels, which are undermining their sector. They hope to supplement their income with the next flowering of carob trees.