Western Australia is renowned for its premium honey varieties, such as Jarrah and Karri, which are highly sought after in international markets. Expanding your business to sell honey internationally can be rewarding, but it requires careful planning and adherence to regulations. Here’s a clear guide to help beekeepers and honey packers in Western Australia navigate the process.

Step 1: Meet Australian Food Standards

Before exporting honey, ensure your product complies with Australia’s food standards as outlined in the Food Standards Code. Key requirements include:

1. Labeling Compliance
   • Include accurate product labeling with all mandatory information:
     • Product name (e.g., “Jarrah Honey”).
     • Net weight.
     • Business name and physical address.
     • Country of origin (e.g., “Product of Australia”).
     • Nutritional information panel (NIP).
     • Best before or use-by date.
2. Testing for Purity and Safety
   • Your honey must be tested for contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and antibiotics to ensure it meets Australian export standards.
3. Biosecurity Compliance
   • Comply with biosecurity measures to ensure your honey is free from diseases or pests like American foulbrood.

Step 2: Obtain Export Registration

To export honey from Australia, you must register your business with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) as an export establishment. Here’s how:

1. Register Your Premises
   • Ensure your honey packing facility complies with the Export Control Act 2020.
   • Your premises will need to be inspected and approved by DAFF to ensure they meet hygiene and food safety standards.
2. Apply for Export Establishment Registration
   • Submit an application to DAFF, detailing your facility’s setup and processes.
3. Develop a HACCP Plan
   • Implement a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plan to identify and manage food safety risks in your production process.

Step 3: Understand Market-Specific Requirements

Different countries have unique import requirements for honey. Research and comply with the regulations of your target market. Key considerations include:

1. Import Permits
   • Some countries require an import permit for honey. Check with the relevant authorities in your destination market.
2. Residue Monitoring Plan (RMP)
   • Exporting honey to countries such as the European Union requires compliance with the National Residue Survey (NRS), which ensures honey is free from chemical residues.
3. Documentation
   • Prepare all necessary export documents, including:
     • Certificate of Origin.
     • Export Health Certificate (issued by DAFF).
     • Commercial invoice and packing list.
4. Methylglyoxal (MGO) and Total Activity (TA) Testing
   • For premium honey varieties, provide certification for MGO or TA levels to meet specific market demands.

Step 4: Ensure Proper Packaging and Labeling for Export

International customers expect high-quality packaging that preserves honey during transit. Follow these guidelines:

• Use tamper-proof, food-grade containers.
• Label products in the language required by the destination country.
• Include batch numbers for traceability.

Step 5: Partner with Export Specialists

Navigating export logistics can be complex. Consider working with:

1. Freight Forwarders
   • Specialists who manage the shipping process, including customs clearance and documentation.
2. Export Agents
   • Professionals who can help you identify opportunities, negotiate contracts, and navigate regulatory requirements.
3. Export Development Programs
   • Engage with programs such as Austrade’s Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) to receive financial support for marketing and promotion.

Step 6: Build Relationships in Target Markets

Establishing trust and a strong reputation is essential for long-term success in international markets. Focus on:

• Quality Assurance
  • Maintain consistent quality to build customer confidence.
• Market Education
  • Highlight the unique properties of Western Australian honey, such as its high antibacterial activity and low glycemic index.
• Branding
  • Invest in professional branding and storytelling to differentiate your honey in competitive markets.

Step 7: Stay Updated on International Regulations

Export regulations can change frequently. Stay informed by:

• Subscribing to updates from DAFF.
• Monitoring the requirements of your target countries.
• Participating in industry associations like the Beekeeping Industry Council of Western Australia (BICWA).

Conclusion

Selling honey internationally is a rewarding opportunity for Western Australian beekeepers and packers to showcase the region’s world-class honey. By adhering to food safety standards, meeting export regulations, and investing in market research and branding, you can position your honey as a premium product on the global stage. Let’s work together to highlight the exceptional quality of Western Australian honey and share it with the world.