Systemic Issues of Bee Breeding in Russia

Abstract

Purpose/objectives: The purpose of this article is to assess the changes in the system of domestic bee breeding caused by modern approaches to the management in the agricultural sector. Lingering crisis of the industry is insurmountable without government intervention to support and popularize bee breeding. The accumulated systemic problems remain unresolved for many years and negatively affect the economy. The potential of the beekeeping industry is not developed and requires activation to increase the production of domestic honey and export to foreign countries. The article analyzes beekeeping production in Russia. Reduced bee colonies in all regions have become a large-scale problem and cause the production to go down and prices for honey products to grow. Measures of state support for beekeeping are insufficient and not extensive. There are no measures to stimulate young people to keep bees and protect of beekeepers’ property in the event of insects’ mass mortality caused by environmental degradation. Now beekeepers are not protected from natural disasters, adverse effects of farmers, pilferage and forest fires. These problems have led to a reduction in the industry, aging of workers, and an increase in the cost of honey products in the domestic market. Methodology: In the research study, there were applied general scientific methods and methods of statistical and mathematical analysis that ensure objectivity and reliability of the work. The results of the research were summarized. Results: A comprehensive review of the beekeeping industry in Russia conducted in the article has proved the industry to require reform and influx of investment resources. Based on our research, the expediency of Uzbek bee packages in the southern zone of Russia in spring has been substantiated. Ways of scientific and technical cooperation between the two countries have been proposed. Conclusions/relevance: This work represents systematization and comprehensive justification of the transformation processes taking place in the beekeeping industry in the light of accumulated systemic problems.