ANALYSIS OF SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES IN BEEKEEPING BETWEEN TÜRKİYE AND EUROPEAN UNION COUNTRIES

This study aims to determine the similarities and differences between Türkiye and European Union countries in terms of beekeeping and classify similar countries. The main materials of the study consist of the number of beekeepers, the amount of honey produced, and the trade balance values of European Union countries and Türkiye. In this study, multidimensional scaling analysis and cluster analysis were conducted to reveal the similarities and differences between Türkiye and European Union countries regarding beekeeping. The analysis results indicate that Spain and Romania are the most similar countries and Türkiye and Germany significantly differ from other European Union countries regarding beekeeping. Specifically, Türkiye was differentiated from other countries by its high honey production amount. The key characteristics that differentiated Germany from other countries were the number of beekeepers and a high trade deficit. In order to compete effectively with European Union countries in beekeeping, Türkiye should prioritize policies that encourage the export of honey in small, branded packaging.