Nilka County, perched at 1,800 meters in the Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of the Chinese mainland’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, is buzzing with new life.
Home to the renowned Xinjiang black bee—one of the Chinese mainland’s four major bee species—this highland paradise offers over 270 unique nectar sources, from wildflowers in summer to alpine herbs in autumn. This rich floral diversity translates into premium honey prized from Beijing to Berlin.
CGTN Digital reporter Li Yimei joined local beekeepers recently, capturing stories of transformation as families pivot to apiculture. In villages once dependent on traditional farming, hives now line terraced fields, generating fresh income streams and revitalizing rural economies.
Beyond the sweet reward, beekeeping in Nilka has spurred community training programs on hive management, digital tracking of honey yields, and sustainable range practices. Young entrepreneurs are leveraging online marketplaces to reach global consumers, turning each jar of Xinjiang honey into an export opportunity.
This hive-driven revival shows how sustainable agriculture and local know-how can spark economic growth, offering a model for rural revitalization worldwide. In Nilka County, every drop of honey tells a story of resilience, innovation, and community spirit.
Reference(s):
A sweet cause: Xinjiang honey industry revives rural economy
cgtn.com
