Economic study of honey bee industry in Isfahan province

This research was conducted to examine the economic status of beekeepers in Isfahan province. Data from 200 beekeepers were analyzed, and 15 large beekeepers and 15 small beekeepers were randomly selected, with questionnaires completed in person. The research method was a parametric descriptive statistics method, and the data collection method was field research. The following results were obtained: The highest percentage of costs was related to essential equipment and vehicles, accounting for 32% and 24% for large units and 45% and 25% for small units, respectively. The cost price of each kilogram of honey was calculated to be 2.46 million rials for large units and 2.16 million rials for small units. The highest percentage of income for beekeepers came from natural honey production and bee colony splits, accounting for 52% and 26% for large units and 75% and 15% for small units, respectively. The sales amount at the breakeven point for large and small units was 1,582 million rials and 919 million rials, respectively . The net profit for large and small units was 1,800 and 1,200 million rials, respectively. The rate of return on investment for large and small beekeeping units was equal at 29%, and the payback period for large and small units was 3.46 and 3.43 years, respectively. It is suggested that collaboration among beekeepers be encouraged, specialized research and training be conducted in cooperation with universities and beekeeping organizations, and production chains for honey bee products be established to improve the economic status of beekeepers.