Bees & Honey: How a small business and a tiny island are using digital technologies and trade to save the world’s bees (Global Innovation Forum)
7 Dec 2023 13:00h - 14:00h UTC
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Melvin Spreij
The analysis highlights several important points regarding the situation in Niue and the conservation of Italian honeybees. Niue is a small, isolated Pacific Island country with limited numbers of international visitors and only a few ports. Within Niue, there is a significant population of Italian honeybees that are free from major bee diseases. This makes them a valuable genetic asset that needs to be protected.
To protect these bees, the suggestion is to establish a bee sanctuary in Niue. The size of the country, its small population, and its isolation make it an ideal location for such a sanctuary. The protection of honeybees is not only important for the bees themselves but also has broader implications for livelihoods, biodiversity protection, and food security.
However, exporting bees and honey from Niue is currently not financially viable. This is due to the required monitoring and surveillance systems for bee diseases. Without these systems in place, the exportation of bees and honey is not possible. Additionally, the limited transport options in Niue further hinder the export potential, potentially necessitating chartered flights and certification.
Despite the challenges in exporting bees and honey, the establishment of a bee sanctuary can still be supported by developing markets for Niue honey and adhering to the import requirements of other countries. This will require meeting the import standards and regulations, including those related to the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) rules.
Another noteworthy observation is the need to navigate different rules and regulations in e-commerce platforms. This highlights the importance of understanding and complying with the various standards and requirements when conducting business in the online marketplace.
Furthermore, the analysis mentions that project development work will continue in anticipation of its approval. This indicates that efforts are being made to further enhance the conservation of honeybees in Niue. Strengthening local beekeeping, honey producer, and honey exporter associations is also emphasized as a means to support the conservation efforts.
In conclusion, the analysis highlights the importance of protecting the last known significant and disease-free population of Italian honeybees in Niue. Establishing a bee sanctuary is recommended, despite the challenges in exporting bees and honey. Developing markets for Niue honey and complying with import requirements can support the conservation effort. The analysis also highlights the need to understand and navigate different rules and regulations in e-commerce platforms. Overall, there is a commitment to continuing project development work and strengthening local beekeeping associations to further support the conservation of honeybees in Niue.
Hua Wang
The Niue honey, produced by Italian honeybees on the small Pacific Island country of Niue, has gained international recognition for its exceptional quality. This honey has even been awarded for being the best-tasting honey in the UK, highlighting its superior flavour and craftsmanship. Niue is home to the world’s last healthy Italian honeybees, making their honey a unique and rare delicacy.
To expand its market, the Niue honey company is leveraging digital technologies to facilitate its expansion to the US and Europe. This strategic move aims to tap into global demand and increase the reach of Niue’s honey to a wider audience. Utilising these digital tools allows the company to overcome distance barriers and connect with potential customers across continents.
Protecting Niue’s honeybees from diseases is of utmost importance. Preserving these honeybees is crucial for the island’s ecosystem and the delicate balance it maintains. As the world’s last healthy Italian honeybees, they play a vital role in pollination and preserving biodiversity.
Moreover, Niue is not solely focused on its domestic market. It also aims to share its beekeeping knowledge and expertise with other Pacific Islands. The inclusion of a recommendation for the establishment of a bee sanctuary in Niue in the Niue Trade Policy Framework highlights its commitment to becoming a hub for the regional apiculture industry. This broader regional project on apiculture could elevate Niue’s status as a centre of excellence for beekeeping, positively impacting regional food security (SDG 2: Zero Hunger) and economic growth (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth).
Similarly, New Way in Ukraine has also made its mark in the honey industry. The honey produced there has been awarded as the best international honey at the UK Honey Show, emphasizing its extraordinary taste. The calm and relaxed environment of New Way, characterized by an abundance of coconut trees, influences the behavior of bees and contributes to the exquisite quality of their honey.
The bees in New Way are known for their gentle and calm disposition, enhancing the appeal of their honey. This delicious honey has gained international recognition and appreciation, underscoring the harmonious relationship between the bees and the environment in New Way. It aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals of Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Life on Land (SDG 15).
Overall, both the Niue honey and the honey from New Way showcase the exceptional quality and taste that can be achieved through careful beekeeping practices and the maintenance of a nurturing environment for the bees. Furthermore, the recognition and appreciation of these honeys at an international level demonstrate the importance of sustainable and responsible honey production in contributing to global efforts towards responsible consumption and production (SDG 12).
Rupa Chanda
E-commerce and digital marketplaces are playing a crucial role in boosting the global reach and market share of sustainable businesses like Niue Honey. The demand for ethical retail is growing, with consumers willing to pay a premium for sustainable products. Platforms such as Inclusive Trade enable these businesses to showcase their products and provide evidence of their positive impact, giving them a competitive advantage.
Inclusive Trade is dedicated to supporting sustainable and small businesses and understands the importance of verifying positive impact. They are launching an app that simplifies the process for small brands to demonstrate their environmental and community contributions, linking them to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This strengthens their brand authenticity and resonates with consumers seeking transparency in sustainability claims.
To navigate complex regulations and compliance, Inclusive Trade advises small businesses to select specific markets rather than selling everywhere. This step-by-step approach ensures efficient compliance with different country’s requirements, although associated costs need to be considered. Rupa Chanda suggests targeting low hanging fruit markets first to facilitate smoother entry into the global market.
Rupa Chanda also emphasizes the need to document environmental and community impact, especially during the certification process. While waiting for certification, businesses should actively track and document their impact, building an evidence base that showcases their commitment to responsible consumption and production.
The success of the Inclusive Trade platform has generated high demand, particularly in the bee product trade industry. Scaling and expansion efforts are underway, in collaboration with the MSME group of countries within the World Trade Organization (WTO). There are plans to include more ethical businesses from WTO member countries, promoting responsible practices.
Inclusive Trade aims to leverage existing trade tools provided by the WTO and the International Trade Centre (ITC) to enhance its services for small businesses and brands. By utilizing these resources, Inclusive Trade facilitates connections, provides training, and enhances capacity building to ensure effective trade within the platform.
In conclusion, e-commerce and digital marketplaces offer significant opportunities for sustainable businesses to expand globally. Inclusive Trade and similar platforms play a vital role in enabling businesses to showcase their products, provide evidence of positive impact, and connect with sustainability-conscious consumers. The platform’s plans for expansion and collaboration demonstrate a commitment to supporting small businesses and promoting responsible consumption and production practices on a global scale.
Audience
The analysis provided covers various arguments and supporting facts related to different topics. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), it has been observed that bush burning activities are negatively affecting bee populations. These activities are of concern as they have a detrimental impact on the biodiversity and ecosystem of the region. This is particularly problematic as bees play a vital role in pollination, which is essential for plant reproduction and ecosystem health.
On the other hand, there is a positive argument suggesting that supporting sustainable farming practices can help conserve bee populations. Sustainable farming methods, such as implementing organic practices and avoiding the use of harmful pesticides, can create a more bee-friendly environment. By adopting such practices, farmers can contribute to preserving bee populations and ensuring the continued pollination of crops.
Another topic discussed is the importance of small businesses selecting specific markets based on the regulations of that jurisdiction. Small businesses have the advantage of being flexible and capable of making necessary adjustments to comply with different regulatory frameworks. By aligning with the rules and regulations of a targeted market, small businesses can streamline their operations and enhance their chances of success.
However, it is important to consider the costs associated with regulations and compliance. Every regulation and compliance measure incurs expenses, and small businesses need to carefully assess and account for these costs. Balancing the need for compliance with financial implications is critical for sustainable growth and ensuring that businesses can operate effectively without being overwhelmed by unnecessary burdens.
In Vanuatu, there is concern about protecting natural bee production due to the invasion of Asian bees. This invasion poses a threat to native bee populations, which not only impacts the ecosystem but also the local economy. Vanuatu has a lucrative market for organic honey production, making the preservation of natural bee production even more significant. It is essential to implement protective measures to prevent further damage and maintain a thriving bee industry in Vanuatu.
In conclusion, the analysis highlights the negative impact of bush burning on bee populations in the DRC and the potential of sustainable farming practices to address this issue. It emphasizes the importance of small businesses selecting markets based on regulations while also considering the costs of compliance. Furthermore, it highlights the need to protect natural bee production in Vanuatu and the risks posed by the invasion of Asian bees. These insights provide valuable information for stakeholders and policymakers to make informed decisions to promote bee conservation and sustainable practices in these contexts.
Andrea Giacomelli
New Eye Honey initially received support from the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, specifically through their network of trade commissions known as PT&I, to enhance their packaging and participate in trade fairs. The aim was to improve their market presence and increase their reach to potential customers.
However, New Eye Honey has since shifted its focus from being solely a commercial venture to becoming a potential source of healthy bee stock. This change in direction presents a significant opportunity. Niue, one of the Pacific Islands, could serve as a hub for exporting healthy bees to other islands in the region that are facing bee health issues. This development could play a crucial role in addressing the challenges faced by the Pacific Islands in maintaining a thriving apiculture industry.
Recognising the potential of Niue, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat initiated a small feasibility study to determine whether Niue could become a hub for a broader regional project on apiculture. The study outlined the possibilities and benefits of Niue hosting such a project. Undertaking this regional project could stimulate economic growth, contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals 2 (Zero Hunger), 15 (Life on Land), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
The proposed regional project on apiculture covers various aspects, including the development and assessment of bee stock health, legal and regulatory aspects, extension services, quality assurance, value addition, and market promotion. It aims to establish a comprehensive framework that supports the growth of the beekeeping industry in the Pacific region.
Despite the potential for regional growth, there are challenges that need to be addressed. Vanuatu, for example, is facing an invasion of Asian bees, which poses a significant threat to its lucrative organic honey production. This invasion highlights the importance of establishing a hub for healthy bee stocking to fight contamination in other regions. Nihon, with its largely uncontaminated environment and healthy bees, has been identified as a potential location for such a hub. The proposal suggests extirpating contaminated bees from regions like Vanuatu and replacing them with healthy bees from Nihon.
Ensuring biosecurity and disease prevention is crucial in maintaining a healthy bee population. With the increased tourism in Nihon, there is a higher risk of introducing diseases to the region. As a result, recommendations have been made to strengthen Nihon’s biosecurity systems, including acquiring scanning machines and professional incinerators. These measures aim to maintain a disease-free environment that is essential for the health and sustainability of the beekeeping industry.
In terms of funding, the Niue Honey project is currently in the process of formulating a regional project proposal for the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF). It is anticipated that the project could secure up to $1 million in co-funding, with commitments already made by Australia to contribute half a million towards its implementation. Such funding would provide essential resources to support the growth and development of the beekeeping industry in the Pacific region.
In addition to the regional project, plans are underway to implement e-commerce business toolkits that support micro-companies. These toolkits will provide simple guides for micro-companies in utilising and leveraging digital technology to optimise their operations in the beekeeping industry. The programme includes training, mentoring, and a small grant, which will help these micro-companies thrive in an increasingly digital era.
Furthermore, Andrea, an individual involved in the industry, has shown a positive stance towards leveraging digital technologies to support the apiculture industry. This sentiment aligns with the Pacific Island Values (PIVs) product, which aims to apply digital technologies to the apiculture value chain. The PIVs product includes an e-commerce business toolkit, which would further aid micro-companies in adopting digital solutions for their businesses.
In conclusion, the support provided by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, particularly through PT&I, has facilitated the evolution of New Eye Honey from improving packaging and participating in trade fairs to becoming a potential source of healthy bee stock. The proposed regional project on apiculture could provide significant benefits, addressing challenges in bee health, legal and regulatory aspects, quality assurance, and market promotion. However, the threat of Asian bees invasion in Vanuatu emphasises the need for a hub for healthy bee stocking, with Nihon being a potential location. Strengthening biosecurity measures is essential to ensure a disease-free environment. The Niue Honey project is actively formulating a regional project proposal, with potential funding from the STDF. Additionally, plans are being made to introduce e-commerce business toolkits to support micro-companies, aligning with Andrea’s positive stance on leveraging digital technologies in the apiculture industry.
Richard Duncan
Here is the edited version of the expanded summary:
The Niue Honey Company, operating for 25 years, primarily exports its products to New Zealand, establishing itself as a reputable player in the industry. They have also played a crucial role in establishing the Pacific Bee Sanctuary, which aims to protect clean bee colonies and enhance agricultural productivity in Pacific Island countries. This sanctuary acts as a safety net for agricultural economies such as New Zealand and Australia by providing a source of clean bee stock.
Italian bees are an essential part of global beekeeping, particularly in the New Way Honey Company. These bees, known for their yellow and gentle nature, were introduced approximately 100 years ago and now make up the majority of New Way’s bee stock. New Way’s isolation from other bee populations has allowed them to maintain a disease-free and pure bee stock. While there are advantages to this isolation, it also presents challenges for the company. Nonetheless, New Way Honey Company has embraced technology and social media to maintain their market presence. They utilize beehive monitoring technology, enabling remote monitoring of hive weight, humidity, and bee activity, which increases productivity by reducing unnecessary travel costs and time and predicting the best time for harvest.
Newer Honey, recognized as the best international honey, has gained popularity and been endorsed by celebrity chefs. It has become a popular gift among diplomats, particularly in Washington DC. However, the availability of Newer Honey is currently limited, with it being sold out in Australia and New Zealand and unavailable in the US market.
New Way Honey Company aims to be an exemplar in sustainable beekeeping. They add value not only to their primary products but also to their secondary products, marketing them as high-end luxury items to achieve long-term sustainability. The company is also certified organic, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable practices.
The significance of social media in promoting businesses is crucial. New Way Honey Company utilizes social media platforms as a cost-effective means of reaching their target audience, validating their business to other companies, and displaying their company profile in pitch decks.
E-commerce platforms play a pivotal role in expanding market penetration and understanding buyer demographics. New Way Honey Company plans to employ online marketplaces in larger markets such as the US, enabling them to track buyer locations and tailor their market strategy accordingly.
Education is seen as a key driver for change and increased productivity in terms of pollination services for agriculture. It is believed that through education, the importance of protecting bees and their habitats can be effectively communicated.
Agricultural practices pose a pressing global issue for bees, with the use of pesticides, lack of forage, and urbanization all contributing factors. Sustainable businesses in beekeeping are crucial for saving bees and their habitats. When beekeepers have a stake in sustainable practices, they are more likely to lobby for policy changes that protect the industry.
Active involvement of the apiculture industry in biosecurity is essential. With the threat of diseases looming, active beekeepers are more likely to demand policy changes and enhancements that protect their livelihoods and the industry as a whole.
Richard Duncan, the key figure behind the Niue Honey Company, has ambitious plans for expansion into Australia, the US, Japan, Singapore, and the UK. However, he emphasizes the importance of conveying the story of the Pacific and their products while expanding. By maintaining high standards and telling their unique story, Duncan aims to set his company apart from competitors.
In conclusion, the Niue Honey Company and the Pacific Bee Sanctuary play pivotal roles in the beekeeping industry and agricultural productivity. Italian bees and New Way Honey Company also contribute significantly to global beekeeping. Newer Honey has gained recognition as a high-quality product, endorsed by celebrity chefs and popular among diplomats. New Way Honey Company strives for sustainability and luxury branding, utilizing technology and social media to enhance their business. Education, policy changes, and industry involvement are imperative for the protection of bees and their habitats. Richard Duncan envisions expansion into various markets while highlighting the Pacific’s story and unique products.
Speakers
AG
Andrea Giacomelli
Speech speed
143 words per minute
Speech length
1174 words
Speech time
491 secs
A
Audience
Speech speed
141 words per minute
Speech length
303 words
Speech time
129 secs
HW
Hua Wang
Speech speed
168 words per minute
Speech length
1669 words
Speech time
597 secs
MS
Melvin Spreij
Speech speed
165 words per minute
Speech length
814 words
Speech time
296 secs
RD
Richard Duncan
Speech speed
180 words per minute
Speech length
3863 words
Speech time
1290 secs
RC
Rupa Chanda
Speech speed
201 words per minute
Speech length
1707 words
Speech time
509 secs
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