There were 2.63 million colonies producing honey in 1998, compared with 2.58 million in 1997. Yield per colony averaged 83.7 pounds, up 9.0 pounds from the 74.6 pounds in 1997. Colonies which produced in more than one state were counted in each state and yields per colony may therefore be understated. Colonies were not counted if honey was not harvested. Prices are based on retail sales by producers and sales to private processors and co-ops.
China is the second largest exporter, loosing first place to Argentina since two years ago.
The US production should reach 99,800 tonnes in 1998, up 12 percent from 1997. According to industry sources, the number of apiarists and bee colonies continues to decline, because of the variability in prices and production costs. The US is not a major exporting country. They are the second largest importer after Germany with imports of 60,000 tonnes in 1998. Germany only produces 15,000 tonnes yearly since 1996.