Value Chain Analysis of Natural Beekeeping in Forests: A Case Study of Huay Hin Lat Nai Community, Wiang Pa Pao District, Chiang Rai Province

Abstract

This study aimed to study the production process, management, and net income of natural beekeeping and to analyze the components as well as stakeholders involved in the honey production value chain of Huay Hin Lat Nai community, Wiang Pa Pao district, Chiang Rai province. Data was collected by interviewing 16 beekeepers together with an in-depth interview of key informants. The study revealed that the natural beekeeping comprised of four main activities which were 1) production of hives, 2) hive placement in the forests, 3) hive treatment, and 4) honey harvest. The average honey produced was 64.88 kg household^-1 year^-1 resulting in an average household income of 14,968 baht household^-1 year^-1. The total community income from beekeeping was 201,833 baht year^-1. Analyzing honey value chain indicated that there are 4 major components which were 1) beekeeping by local farmers, 2) community buying, 3) honey packaging, and 4) honey transportation and distribution. Interestingly, the local community added value to the honey product through the development of product packaging.