The apiculture unit co-ordinates the activities pertaining to bee keeping in Sri Lanka. The country's present total annual requirement of honey is estimated to be around 100 mt. of which 40% is produced locally. The balance 60% is imported. Out of the locally produced honey around 50% comes from jungle bee colonies. Adulteration of honey and excessive use of insecticides on crops are serious apicultural problems in Sri Lanka.

It is estimated that 15000-20000 bee colonies are kept by farmers with an average annual yield of 1.5 - 2.0 kg per colony. The present apiculture development programme is aimed at producing the total honey requirement of the country. The unit provides necessary technical information and coordinates the supply of equipment and bee colonies for producing quality honey.