MEMBER NEWSLETTER
June 2026 Bulletin 121
Market Updates By Kirk Wilson
Growth in the EU is expected to increase by five per cent this year for all honey consumption. With the new labeling laws, increased testing, regions still being impacted by the war in Ukraine, and the supply channels being heavily impacted by the war in Iran; there is an opportunity this upcoming year for Canadian honey to be sold into the EU. However, we will be competing heavily with Argentina and their established trade partners. Argentina is expecting an average crop or slightly below, with much of their crop being moved to Europe for more stable pricing and increased demand from the new laws on labeling and authenticity coming into effect this June. Australian honey production is expected to be far less than normal as much of Eastern Australia is fighting larger and larger Varroa Mite loads and poor weather. With the conflict in Iran, this may allow for Canadian honey to move into some EU programs to fill the void.
As we head into spring, the market conditions remain mostly unchanged from they were last fall. Current market prices remain between $2.05 and $2.10 per pound, returns vary based on lose of drums or shipping costs. The updated EU Breakfast Directive (Directive (EU) 2024/1438), to be applied by June 14, 2026, mandates stricter honey labeling, requiring all countries of origin to be listed in descending order by weight, along with their percentages. The new rules abolish generic terms like "blend of EU honeys," ensuring better traceability and transparency
Manitoba Cooperative Honey Producers Limited 645 Black Diamond Blvd, Winnipeg, MB R2J 4M7
The US is expecting similar over wintering numbers as last year, in and around the 60% colony loss and a continued decline in their overall honey production. They have experienced 4 years of declining crops and will continue to look to expanding imports to satisfy demand. With the two largest markets for honey consumption in the US and Europe looking for new partners or expansion of current ones; we will be there to satisfy this demand and push to increase prices for Bee Maid Honey, an authentic, traceable, and stable partner. Looking forward to a great summer and a large harvest this fall. Alberta Honey Producers Co-operative Limited Box 3909, 70 Alberta Avenue, Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3B1
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