Introduction – China’s Honey Market by the Numbers
When it comes to honey, China is more than just a buzzword—it’s the hive of global production. In 2025, China continues to dominate the worldwide honey scene, consistently ranking as the largest honey producer and one of the top exporters on the planet.
With over 450,000 metric tons of annual production and exports reaching markets in over 100 countries, China’s honey industry is a powerhouse. The country accounts for nearly 25% of global honey output, making it a crucial player for businesses sourcing honey products at scale.
But in a market this vast, how do you find reliable suppliers? That’s where a data-driven approach pays off. Platforms like Freshdi make it easier to analyze supplier performance, track RFQ (request for quotation) volumes, and identify top exporters based on actual trade activity.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Market Signals
To understand where the best honey suppliers in China come from, it’s essential to look beneath the surface.
China’s key honey-producing provinces include Heilongjiang, Shanxi, Sichuan, and Yunnan. These regions offer rich floral biodiversity that contributes to the country’s variety of honey types—from buckwheat honey to linden and acacia.
On the export front, China ships over 120,000 metric tons annually, with major destinations including:
- The United States
- Germany
- Japan
- United Kingdom
- Saudi Arabia
In terms of market signals, platforms like Freshdi provide real-time RFQ trends, helping buyers see which honey variants are in demand. For example, RFQ volumes for flavored honey syrups and functional honey beverages have been on the rise, reflecting shifts in consumer tastes across the globe.
Top 9 Verified Honey Suppliers in China – Leading Exporters by Volume
Choosing the right supplier is about more than price—buyers need quality, certifications, and export reliability. Based on export performance, buyer feedback, and data from Freshdi, here are the Top 9 Honey Suppliers in China in June 2025:
- Changzhou Kelly Trading Limited
- Known for high-quality royal honey blends.
- Strong B2B presence in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
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Offers private labeling and custom packaging solutions.
- Specializes in concentrated honey and flavored syrups.
- Popular among beverage manufacturers.
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High-volume exporter with HACCP certifications.
- Offers honey-sugarcane syrup variants.
- Excellent for bubble tea, coffee chains, and dessert brands.
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Export footprint includes the U.S., Australia, and Canada.
- Focuses on natural linden and acacia honey.
- Organic certifications and traceability features.
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Frequently ranks among Freshdi’s top-rated exporters.
- Known for flavored honey syrups like peach, lychee, and mango.
- Strong supply partnerships with global F&B chains.
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ISO and BRC certified facilities.
- Long-established honey supplier with EU-standard quality control.
- Offers white label and bulk export services.
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Product range includes comb, wildflower, and manuka-style honey.
- Known for RTD (ready-to-drink) honey beverages.
- Innovative product development for wellness drinks.
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Fast-growing exporter to Southeast Asia.
- Specializes in honey-based flavor extracts and syrups.
- Frequently used by bottled drink and dessert brands.
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Offers customized flavor development services.
- Trusted for their buckwheat and clover honey.
- Strong reputation for sustainable sourcing.
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Consistently high export volumes and repeat buyers.
- Specializes in comb honey and raw varietals.
- Appeals to health food markets in Europe and North America.
- GMP and ISO certified production facilities.
Dynamic Ranking Note
It’s important to note that rankings among honey suppliers can shift monthly or quarterly. Platforms like Freshdi often feature “Supplier of the Month” badges based on export activity, buyer ratings, and response times—so it’s worth checking back periodically for the most current top performers.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Value Dynamics & Export Dynamics
Now let’s decode the data behind the honey market.
One of the biggest trends we’re seeing in 2025? Diversification. While traditional honey continues to dominate, demand is surging for:
- Flavored honey (peach, lychee, matcha)
- Functional honey (infused with herbs or vitamins)
- Honey beverages (RTD lemon-honey tea, honey milk)
Thanks to platforms like Freshdi, RFQ trends reveal a seasonal spike in honey demand during Q2 and Q4—especially before summer and winter holidays. Businesses can use this data to plan procurement cycles smartly.
Additionally, price volatility remains relatively low in the Chinese honey export market, but seasonal floral yields can affect specific varietals like buckwheat or jujube honey. Historical data helps buyers lock in prices when availability peaks.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Informed Procurement
China’s honey export market is as sweet as it is strategic. With its commanding share of global production, a wide range of honey variants, and a mature export infrastructure, China remains the go-to source for serious buyers.
But don’t go in blind. Use platforms like Freshdi to:
- Verify supplier credentials
- Analyze RFQ activity and trending products
- Track dynamic supplier rankings
- Evaluate buyer reviews and export capabilities
Whether you’re sourcing raw honey, flavored syrups, or functional beverages, the key to success is combining market insights with reliable supplier data.
Key Takeaways
- China leads the global honey market in both production and exports.
- Verified suppliers offer a range of products from raw honey to RTD drinks.
- Flavored and functional honeys are gaining popularity fast.
- Platforms like Freshdi provide real-time data on RFQs, supplier performance, and market trends.
- Strategic procurement means using data to select the right supplier at the right time.
Honey Procurement Checklist for Buyers
- ✅ Identify seasonal honey trends (buckwheat in spring, linden in fall).
- ✅ Compare supplier certifications (ISO, HACCP, BRC).
- ✅ Review RFQ trends on Freshdi to gauge demand.
- ✅ Check supplier response time and feedback ratings.
- ✅ Use Freshdi’s insights to validate export volumes and product reviews.
Future Outlook – What’s Next for China’s Honey Market?
Looking ahead, China is expected to expand its honey exports further by leveraging:
- Smart farming and beekeeping tech
- Enhanced traceability and blockchain tracking
- Greater focus on organic and sustainable honey
- Expansion into niche honey markets like manuka substitutes
As buyer expectations rise, suppliers who adapt and innovate will lead the next wave of exports. Platforms like Freshdi will continue to be a key tool for buyers to stay updated and make smarter, data-backed decisions.
FAQs
1. What types of honey are most exported from China?
China mainly exports multifloral, buckwheat, acacia, and linden honey, along with flavored syrups and honey-based beverages.
2. How can I trust the authenticity of a Chinese honey supplier?
Use platforms like Freshdi to verify certifications, track export history, and read buyer reviews.
3. When is the best time to source honey from China?
Q2 and Q4 usually see peak RFQ activity, aligning with floral harvest seasons and holiday demand.
4. Are flavored honey syrups popular in international markets?
Yes, especially in the beverage and dessert industries. Flavors like peach, lychee, and lemon are in high demand.
5. Can I request private labeling from Chinese honey suppliers?
Absolutely. Many top suppliers, like Changzhou Kelly Trading Limited, offer OEM and private label services for global buyers.
Ready to source smarter? Explore verified honey exporters and live market insights only on Freshdi.
