Hoa Binh honey is waiting for export signals to the UK to expand its scale

After the first shipment of honey exported to the UK on October 12, the agricultural sector in Hoa Binh, particularly in Kim Boi district, is now waiting for market signals from Europe to expand its production scale and export volume.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong, the Director of RYB Joint Stock Company, which delivered 20 jars of Thuong Tien honey from the Greenlife cooperative (Kim Boi district, Hoa Binh) to the UK, mentioned that the groundwork for this shipment began back in 2022 with extensive market research.

"We explored various regions known for their honey, but upon discovering the pristine forest area in Thuong Tien, we found the flavor and purity to be exceptional, which led us to select it as our supply source", Ms. Huong explained.

According to the leadership of the Greenlife cooperative, the pure honey exported to the UK must meet various standards, including hygiene and food safety, as well as specific requirements for density, with a moisture content of 17.2%. Additionally, the temperature during processing must not exceed 35 degrees Celsius.

In terms of market expectations for Thuong Tien honey, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong believes that while the UK is indeed a strict market, meeting the technical requirements, along with having all necessary documentation and certifications, combined with its unique natural flavor, will contribute to the product's positive reception.

From a local standpoint, Mr. Dinh Tat Thang, Head of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in Kim Boi district, indicated that Thuong Tien honey is regarded as a product with considerable potential. As a result, the district has chosen relevant organizations to provide technical support and allocate funding for the procurement of equipment and machinery, as well as to conduct training sessions for members of the Greenlife cooperative.

"Thuong Tien honey has seen strong sales in the domestic market, and now it is poised for export to the UK. Moving forward, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will advise the district on how to expand this model. If the market embraces it, we will have sufficient capacity to meet demand", Mr. Dinh Tat Thang explained.

In recent years, Kim Boi district has concentrated on assisting farmers in selecting promising products to develop their brands. Furthermore, the Department has mobilized various funding sources and taken advantage of resources from national target programs to support cooperatives and farmers in establishing effective production models within the region.

Focusing on the target market

As someone who facilitates the introduction of many agricultural products from Hoa Binh to international markets, Dr. Nguyen Hong Yen, Director of the Plant Protection and Inspection Department of the province, emphasized that each market comes with its own distinct requirements: "The standards may not necessarily be higher, but they can differ significantly from those of the domestic market. Therefore, it is crucial to closely follow the needs of the target market in order to guide cooperatives and farmers in producing compliant products".

For example, in order for Thuong Tien honey to be exported to the UK, a health certification for the bee colonies is required, a criterion that does not apply to the domestic market. To secure this certification, detailed records of the bees’ health and monitoring history must be provided, along with sample testing.

In terms of agricultural products from Hoa Binh as a whole, the province acknowledges that enhancing export capabilities is a long-term endeavor that demands time and persistence. "Following initial shipments that serve primarily as introductions to the market, our products will simultaneously aim to explore and promote themselves", Dr. Nguyen Hong Yen noted.

According to the Head of the Department, market acceptance will create favorable conditions for expanding the scale of goods. However, this expansion process should be undertaken gradually; it may progress slowly and may not be extensive at first, but it should be approached with a steady and careful mindset.

"The agricultural products from Hoa Binh will vary depending on the production area and the specific products, each associated with its own unique specialty brand. The province believes that while specialties may be produced in limited quantities and have shorter supply durations, they carry strong branding, which is essential for establishing a traditional market", Mr. Yen further explained.

In discussing strategies to improve the effectiveness of agricultural exports from Hoa Binh in the near future, Mr. Nguyen Hong Yen highlighted two primary concerns. The first is the need to enhance the organizational capacity of cooperatives, while the second focuses on improving preservation, processing, and post-harvest management capabilities.

To address these challenges, it is essential for cooperative members, including their leadership, to undergo regular training and engage in dialogue with experts. This will help them enhance their production and management skills and better organize their operations.

Additionally, the government should place greater emphasis on investing in machinery and production lines for cooperatives. Such investments are crucial for improving post-harvest preservation and processing methods. Ultimately, this will increase the value of agricultural products and alleviate the seasonal pressures faced by farmers, particularly regarding fresh produce.