Natural honey has been widely accepted as a food that has medicinal purposes for generations, from ancient civilizations to modern times.

Generally, with the shift to healthier alternatives, consumers prefer low-calorie, natural and healthy sweeteners. There is greater focus on healthier alternatives to refined sugar, such as raw cane sugar, honey and palm sugar amongst others.

As with aloe vera and other natural products, the growing trend of consumers demanding healthier alternatives has highlighted the benefits of using honey as a sweetener. Regular consumption of honey is associated with high levels of energy when compared to artificial sweeteners further providing nourishment, increased metabolic activity, growth and healthy living.

The global market value for honey is valued at USD 9.21 billion as of 2020 and is expected to grow by a projected 11.6% to USD 14.2 billion over the next five years. The International Trade Centre’s Export Potential Map indicates that the markets with greatest potential for Caribbean honey exports are Germany, Spain and China.  

Read more about the export opportunities for agro-processing.

Agro-Processing Sector Brief