The Socio-Economic Analysis and Economic Sustainability of Turkish Beekeeping Enterprises: Example of Bingöl Province

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the economic analysis and sustainability of beekeeping enterprises in Bingöl province. Primary data obtained through surveys from 87 members of the Bingöl Beekeepers Association between March and July 2023 were used in the study. To assess the economic sustainability of the enterprises, an index was employed, and statistical analyses were conducted using the Stata 14.2 package program. According to the research findings, 63.63% of production costs consist of variable expenses, while 36.37% are fixed costs on average. The cost of 1 kg of honey in the enterprises was calculated as 134.20₺. The average yield per hive was 11.40 kg, the average gross production value per hive was 625.39₺, the average gross profit was 356.93₺, net profit was 288.22₺, and the relative profit was determined as 2.81. The economic sustainability index of the enterprises was determined as 0.62, indicating that the enterprises are most sustainable in terms of gross profit but least sustainable in terms of honey yield. In conclusion, to increase the profitability of beekeeping enterprises, it is crucial to work with high-yielding bee species and provide technical training seminars on apiculture to beekeepers in the region. This is essential for enhancing the honey yield per hive.