Biobío region expands apiculture sector and international exports

The Biobío region in Chile has emerged as a significant hub for apiculture, ranking as the third-largest producer in the country. According to data from Odepa and SAG, the region hosts 873 beekeepers and over 73,000 hives, accounting for 13.2% of national production.

Local family business Colmenar Nativo, based in Arauco, is leveraging this regional strength to enter the Japanese market. Supported by ProChile and INDAP, the company is seeking to export specialized honey products infused with native fruits like maqui and murta to Japanese firms Sugi Bee Garden and Echoe Co.

To support the sector, INDAP has allocated significant resources for the Biobío region, including $362 million for technical assistance and $153 million for investment projects such as processing facilities and equipment. Nationally, the industry is heavily driven by family farming, which represents 84.5% of all beekeepers.