Beekeeping in Shymkent is experiencing a significant boom. While just a few years ago, the industry's primary focus was breeding and the domestic market, today the emphasis has shifted significantly. Honey produced in the city is already exported to Uzbekistan and China, while Russia was previously the traditional market. Laboratory tests confirm the high quality and environmental friendliness of the products, opening up new opportunities for local producers and strengthening the region's image as a reliable exporter of natural products.

According to the Department of Agriculture, the number of registered bee colonies in Shymkent has reached over 18,000—twice as many as five years ago. This growth was made possible by government support. This year, the industry's subsidy rules were revised: now the state supports not only those involved in honey breeding but also those who supply honey to the end consumer. Every kilogram of honey produced is subsidized. Experts believe this approach creates the right incentive to produce more, but most importantly, better quality.

Correspondent Katerina Popkova explains: just a few years ago, beekeepers used to say, "The main thing is for the bees to live ." Today, they've added, "And for the honey to sell ." Changes in industry support policies are aimed specifically at expanding the commercial opportunities of local apiaries.

Sagdat Makhanov, head of the Shymkent Department of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, noted that support has always been provided, but current measures make it more effective:

"In 2020, about 8,000 bee colonies were officially registered. Now there are more than 18,000—and this is, of course, the result of government assistance. We see beekeepers expanding their production every year."

The growth of apiaries not only means increased production volumes but also the involvement of more farmers in the formal economy. This is especially important in a context where export operations require strict adherence to quality standards and documentation.

One of the oldest beekeeping farms in Shymkent, whose history dates back to the last century, is now successfully managed by hereditary beekeepers. Its representative, Irina Demidova, is confident that the new regulations will support the industry and bring many apiaries out of the shadows:

"Many beekeepers will rely more on official distribution channels—contracts with large chains and stores. This will improve honey access to consumers. We expect more and more producers to begin operating openly and legally."

Indeed, some producers previously preferred to sell honey at markets or to wholesalers. However, this format limited their opportunities for brand development, expansion into foreign markets, and increased revenue. Official registration and certification allow producers to fully benefit from selling their products.

At the same time, breeding remains an important area of work. Beekeepers in Shymkent continue to work on improving the characteristics of local bees. A significant achievement has been the development of a subspecies that combines a friendly nature and high honey production.

Bee scientist Roza Shimelkova explains:

"Beekeepers who are involved in breeding have continued to work as they have. Why? Because every producer needs calm, productive bees with predictable qualities. Only such colonies are capable of producing a stable harvest."

Scientific support helps improve bee resilience to disease and changing climate conditions, which is especially important for the southern region.

Today, Shymkent honey is supplied not only to Russia, but also to the markets of Uzbekistan and China. Trading partners from Iran, Qatar, and several Eastern countries are also showing interest. More and more foreign buyers are recognizing the region's natural advantages—the ecology of southern Kazakhstan is conducive to the production of pure, aromatic, and healthy honey.

However, sales are still largely dependent on the producers themselves. Honey is not listed as a socially significant product, meaning the government cannot regulate prices or guarantee domestic demand. Large farms already successfully partner with retail chains, but this is more difficult for smaller producers: certification, stable supply volumes, and marketing support are required.

Many beekeepers see a solution in joining forces. The creation of cooperatives could be a step toward elevating their product to a higher level. Joint certification, joint promotion, and a unified brand for Kazakhstani honey will all increase consumer confidence and provide producers with more favorable sales conditions.

Furthermore, teamwork will allow small farms to participate in international exhibitions, conclude wholesale contracts, and attract investment.

The development of beekeeping in Shymkent is an example of how sound government policy, a strong focus on science, and the initiative of local farmers can create a sustainable export industry. Increasing production volumes, the growth of the official sector, and the interest of foreign buyers all point to the great potential of Kazakhstani honey in the global market.

Shymkent beekeepers are confident that their natural, environmentally friendly products will be appreciated not only in neighboring countries but also abroad. This means new markets, new achievements, and further development of the industry lie ahead.