The Kabul Tribune (KT) — The Taliban Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock says there are currently 3,200 active beekeeping farms across Afghanistan, producing around 2,200 metric tons of honey annually.
Ministry spokesperson Sher Mohammad Hattami said on
Wednesday, 20 May 2026, marking World Honey Bee Day, that the ministry is
committed to supporting beekeeping farms and expanding the sector further
across the country.
According to the ministry, around 6,000 women and thousands
of men are employed in the beekeeping industry, which is considered an
important alternative to opium cultivation.
Afghanistan’s diverse climate and rich vegetation provide
strong potential for honey production, officials said.
In recent years, beekeeping has become one of the key
agricultural sectors in the country, contributing to household income and
serving as an alternative livelihood to illicit crop cultivation.
Authorities and partner organizations are working to further
develop the sector through training programs, equipment support, and improved
market access to boost production and sustainability.
