# Honey production in Turkey

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/honey-production-in-turkey
> Updated: 2026-08-20T09:47:00.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 4.

Honey harvesting seasons are underway across various Turkish provinces, influenced by regional climate and geography.

In Hatay, abundant winter and early-spring rains have revitalized vegetation and increased nectar sources. Local beekeepers report that this improved plant cover has allowed for an earlier start to extraction and higher yields compared to previous drought-affected years. One beekeeper, Ismail Akyüz, noted that due to significant rainfall, “Bu yıl bayağı yağmur yağdığı için balda bereketli bir yıl olacak,” expressing optimism for an abundant harvest.

In the provinces of Ardahan and Tunceli, harvesting is reaching its peak. In Ardahan, the Beekeepers Association reports that approximately 90 percent of the milking process is complete, with an expected production of 300 to 400 tons. In Tunceli’s Nazımiye district, producers are harvesting honey from high-altitude meadows reaching up to 2,500 meters.

In Elazığ, heavy winter snow and abundant spring rains have boosted local flora, leading to a 20% increase in yield per hive. Fırat Canbay, President of the Elazığ Beekeepers Association, reported that while producers harvested approximately 6 kilograms per hive last year, they are now expecting between 8 and 10 kilograms. This meteorological balance has also resulted in a 20% increase in active bee colonies in the region.

Additionally, Bitlis is reporting a positive season due to sufficient rainfall following previous droughts. Bitlis Governor Ahmet Karakaya noted that the province produces approximately 2,100 tons of honey annually, representing about 2.2% of Turkey's total production. The province ranks first in Turkey for traditional ‘black hives’ and fourth for total bee colonies.

## Claims

- Tunceli's honey production benefits from an environment free of industrial pollution and heavy traffic. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- High altitudes in Tunceli allow bees to forage on flowers until late August. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The honey milking season in Ardahan is nearly 90 percent complete. (single source)
- Ardahan expects a total honey production of 300 to 400 tons this season. (single source)
- Honey yield per hive in Ardahan varies between 8 and 12 kilograms depending on the altitude and climate. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-20: Bitlis and Elazığ report increased honey yields due to favorable weather

Favorable rainfall and snow in Turkey's Bitlis and Elazığ regions have led to increased honey yields and healthier bee colonies, boosting local agricultural expectations.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bursa-black-fig-yields-in-turkey-face-50-drop

### 2026-08-19: Elazığ thistle honey harvest begins in Turkey

Thistle honey harvesting has begun in Elazığ, Turkey. Increased rainfall has led to a bountiful season for the 1,500 local beekeeping families seeking EU geographical indication status.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/elaz-thistle-honey-harvest-begins-in-turkey

### 2026-08-18: Turkey honey harvest begins in Ardahan and Tunceli

Beekeepers in Ardahan and Tunceli, Turkey, are harvesting honey from high-altitude meadows, benefiting from endemic flora and clean environments.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-honey-harvest-begins-in-ardahan-and-tunceli

### 2026-07-27: Hatay honey harvest boosted by abundant rains

Heavy winter‑spring rains revived Hatay’s flora, letting beekeeper Ismail Akyüz start honey extraction early and expect a better harvest than last year’s drought‑hit season.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hatay-honey-harvest-boosted-by-abundant-rains

---
Cite as: Honey production in Turkey. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/honey-production-in-turkey