# Biobío region apiculture and export development > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/biobo-region-apiculture-and-export-development > Updated: 2026-10-28T16:59:15.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. The Biobío region in Chile has established itself as a major apiculture hub, ranking as the third largest producer in the country with over 73,000 hives. The sector is largely driven by family farming, which accounts for 84.5% of all beekeepers nationally. Local family business Colmenar Nativo, based in Arauco, is utilizing regional strengths to expand into international markets. Following sales to the United States via Amazon, the company is now targeting the Japanese market. Supported by ProChile and the Institute of Agricultural Development (INDAP), the owners have engaged in business meetings with Kumamoto based companies Sugi Bee Garden and Echoe Co. during the Espacio Food & Service International Fair. The company focuses on value added products, including honey infused with native fruits such as maqui and murta, as well as hazelnut, ginger, and citrus. Their offerings also include pollen, propolis, beeswax, and various cosmetic items. To support the broader regional industry, INDAP has allocated hundreds of millions of pesos for technical assistance and investment projects, including processing facilities and equipment. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-28: Colmenar Nativo targets Japanese market with specialty honeys Chilean apiary Colmenar Nativo is pursuing export opportunities in Japan for its specialty honeys infused with wild fruits like maqui and murta. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/colmenar-nativo-targets-japanese-market-with-specialty-honeys ### 2026-10-26: Biobío region expands apiculture sector and international exports Chile's Biobío region holds 13.2% of the nation's beehives, with local producers like Colmenar Nativo now targeting Japanese markets. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/biobo-region-expands-apiculture-sector-and-international-exports --- Cite as: Biobío region apiculture and export development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/biobo-region-apiculture-and-export-development