Beekeepers seek CAP assistance as honey imports increase by 18% due to heat.

Italian honey production is facing challenges due to climate change, with imports increasing by 18% as beekeepers seek assistance from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The harvest in some of the driest regions saw yields drop by up to 50%, resulting in a total production of 31,000 tonnes, while a shortfall of 26,000 tonnes was reported.

The current honey season has varied significantly across Italy, with mountainous areas faring better than lowland regions like Sicily and Sardinia. The National Honey Observatory's preliminary assessment for 2026 indicates inconsistent yields, with some areas experiencing good production while others report minimal or no output, influenced by factors such as altitude, water availability, and varroa infestations.