French honey production drops due to heatwaves

French honey production is facing a significant decline due to intense heatwaves and drought. Despite a promising start to the season following a mild and wet winter, extreme temperatures in late May and June dried out vegetation, depriving bees of nectar during critical summer flowering periods.

Estimates of the total harvest vary between industry groups. The Union nationale de l'apiculture française (Unaf) projects a yield of 18,000 to 20,000 tonnes, a sharp drop from the 23,000 to 25,000 tonnes recorded in 2025. Meanwhile, the interprofessional organization InterApi estimates production at approximately 33,700 tonnes, which still represents a decrease of about 5,000 tonnes compared to the previous year.

The scarcity of local honey, particularly popular varieties like lavender, acacia, and summer flowers, is expected to drive up retail prices in supermarkets. Beekeepers also face rising operational costs and increased market pressure from imports.