Post by Trade facilitator on Jan 16, 2020 19:09:00 GMT 1
Europe is a global producer of honey. However, it is not self-sufficient and is dependent on honey imports from other countries. In fact, around 40% of Europe’s consumption needs are met through honey imports. European demand for honey remains strong and importers continue to look for new suppliers.
The increase of European honey imports is mostly attributed to the substantial decrease of the European beekeeping sector, but is also the result of various problems related to major honey sources in previous years, such as droughts.
The two main European importers of honey are Germany and the United Kingdom and France.
Trends in European Honey Market
European consumers are increasingly concerned about their health. In particular, obesity is one of the main health issues. As a result, consumers are trying to avoid products and ingredients with a high calorie level, such as refined white sugar.
They prefer low-calorie, natural and healthy sweeteners. They are focusing more on healthy alternatives to refined sugar, such as raw cane sugar, honey and palm sugar. They are also paying more attention to food safety issues and sustainable trade.
In line with this trend, food manufacturers are reducing the level of sugar in certain products, lowering the sugar content of their products in small steps of around 30% and replacing it with alternative low-calorie sweeteners, such as honey.
Market Entry
Importers can generally supply their honey directly to industrial users and retailers, who account for around 25% and 75% of the total honey market respectively.
Tips to find buyers on the European honey Market
Do proper market research
Referrals from family and friends
Participate in networking activities
Target customers via direct marketing
Use online directories and trade sites
Participate in buyer missions, matchmaking programmes and trade missions
Use search engines, digital marketing and advertisement
Work with brokers and traders.
For Successful Export to Europe
Understand your customers and their market
Make sure you meet the legal and buyer-specific quality requirements
Have a clear pricing and payment policy
Create added value for your customers
Build good relationship with your customers
Become involved in national and international industry platforms.
