Amman:The 16th International Conference of the Arab Beekeepers Union has commenced in Amman, uniting researchers, industry specialists, and beekeepers from across the Arab region to address the challenges facing honey production and explore opportunities for scientific and technical cooperation.
According to Jordan News Agency, the four-day conference was inaugurated by Agriculture Minister Saeb Khreisat in the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Alia bint Al Hussein, as well as representatives from regional and international agricultural organizations.
Minister Khreisat emphasized that hosting the conference reflects Jordan's dedication to Arab cooperation, agricultural research, and innovation. He noted that Jordan boasts approximately 3,000 beekeepers, with around 450 licensed by the Ministry of Agriculture, and about 91,000 beehives. The nation's annual honey production is estimated at 800-900 metric tons, fulfilling about 30% of domestic consumption and generating approximately JD20 million in direct annual revenue.
Khreisat identified climate change, water scarcity, declining natural forage, bee diseases, pests, and rising production costs as significant challenges for the industry. He outlined the ministry's efforts to enhance beekeeping practices through technical training, agricultural extension services, scientific research, and modern apiary management and pest control technologies. Additionally, he highlighted initiatives to support small and medium-sized enterprises and increase participation by young people and rural women.
Moath Subhi Kutham, President of the Jordanian Beekeepers Union, called for stronger cooperation among Arab beekeeping associations, research institutions, and government agencies to improve production quality, protect biodiversity, and expand market access for Arab honey products. This cooperation aims to enhance beekeepers' incomes and strengthen the sector's contribution to agriculture and food security.
Fathy Behery, President of the Arab Beekeepers Union, warned that climate change, declining natural habitats, improper pesticide use, and the spread of pests pose threats to beekeeping across the region. He stressed the necessity of environmental protection measures to ensure the industry's long-term sustainability.
The conference's Scientific Committee Chairman, Jamal Ayyad, emphasized the importance of linking academic research with practical applications, highlighting the cooperation between the University of Jordan and the Jordanian Beekeepers Union in addressing industry challenges.
Zakaria Musallam, Director General of the National Agricultural Research Center, described beekeeping as a vital component of Jordan's agricultural and environmental systems. He stated that the center, co-organizing the conference and the first international exhibition of bees and bee products, is developing research-based solutions to improve productivity and sustainability.
Abdulrahman Qurunfuleh from the Arab Center for the Studies of Arid Zones and Dry Lands (ACSAD) highlighted cooperation with the Arab Beekeepers Union on sustainable development, food security, and biodiversity conservation.
Nizar Haddad, Director General of the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), called for closer cooperation with Jordan's Agriculture Ministry and National Agricultural Research Center. He welcomed the revival of the Arab Beekeepers Union Conference following a hiatus since 1999.
Hadeel Ghazzawi, Dean of the University of Jordan Faculty of Agriculture, discussed the role of bees in agricultural sustainability and the nutritional and therapeutic properties of honey and other bee products.
The conference includes scientific sessions, research presentations, and expert lectures, alongside an exhibition of beekeeping equipment, technologies, and honey products. It also provides opportunities for participants to network, exchange expertise, and establish partnerships.