Propolis Market Size, Share | Industry Statistics, 2033

Propolis Market Overview

The Propolis Market size was valued at USD 623.36 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1066.77 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2025 to 2033.

The propolis market is rapidly expanding across multiple regions due to increasing consumer awareness of its therapeutic and functional properties. Propolis, a resinous compound produced by bees, has gained traction as a natural remedy in functional foods, nutraceuticals, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. Globally, more than 5,000 metric tons of propolis are harvested each year, with Brazil, China, and New Zealand being the leading producers.

In 2023, Brazil accounted for over 1,200 metric tons of green propolis exports, primarily to Japan, Europe, and North America. The demand for propolis-based dietary supplements grew by 19% year-on-year in Japan, driven by consumer preferences for natural immunity boosters. Furthermore, over 2,000 clinical studies and research papers published between 2019 and 2024 have validated propolis’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects, especially in chronic disease prevention.

In the cosmetics sector, propolis is now used in more than 800 global skincare product SKUs launched since 2020. Rising interest in organic ingredients has led to over 250 new product launches globally that feature certified organic propolis extracts. This unique profile of widespread application, scientific validation, and increasing demand positions the global propolis market as a promising domain of natural health product innovation.

Key Findings

DRIVER: Rising consumer demand for natural and immune-boosting supplements.

COUNTRY/REGION: Brazil leads production with over 1,200 metric tons of green propolis exported annually.

SEGMENT: Propolis liquids dominate due to their versatile use in tinctures, drops, and cosmetics.

Propolis Market Trends

The propolis market is being shaped by a significant uptick in health and wellness consciousness, with consumers globally turning to natural and alternative remedies. In 2023, over 70 million propolis-based products were sold globally, with Asia-Pacific accounting for more than 30 million units. Online retail platforms recorded a 22% surge in sales of propolis sprays and tinctures in 2023 compared to 2022. Particularly, Japan, South Korea, and China have shown a strong consumer base for propolis, driven by a cultural inclination toward herbal medicine. In Europe, Germany and Poland lead in propolis supplement consumption, with Germany alone accounting for over 9 million units of propolis capsules sold in 2023. European consumers are increasingly looking for certified organic and non-GMO products, pushing manufacturers to adopt cleaner labels and certifications. In North America, the use of propolis in skincare products saw a 14% rise in 2023, with more than 600 new personal care SKUs launched incorporating propolis as a key ingredient. The growing demand for functional foods has also led to the inclusion of propolis in over 250 new food and beverage products globally in 2023.

Furthermore, technological advancements in extraction methods have led to higher purity propolis liquids, with more than 30 new patented formulations introduced between 2022 and 2024. These advanced formulations claim up to 90% higher bioavailability than conventional products. Brand collaborations and influencer marketing on digital platforms are another emerging trend. In 2024, over 80% of propolis product marketing campaigns were launched via social media, generating a combined viewership exceeding 120 million.

Propolis Market Dynamics

Market dynamics refer to the external and internal forces that influence the growth, development, and performance of the propolis market. These dynamics encompass four key factors: market drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges. In the propolis industry, these elements define the strategic direction for manufacturers, suppliers, and investors across regions.

DRIVER

Rising demand for pharmaceuticals.

The pharmaceutical industry’s increasing reliance on natural bioactives is significantly boosting demand for propolis. Clinical trials and pharmacological studies indicate that propolis contains over 300 bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been found effective in reducing inflammation and microbial activity. Between 2021 and 2023, over 120 new pharmaceutical products launched globally incorporated propolis extracts, especially for sore throat, oral ulcers, and cold relief formulations. Japan, South Korea, and Brazil are leading in pharmaceutical R&D using propolis, with more than 30 companies engaged in research partnerships focusing on the medical efficacy of bee-derived ingredients.

RESTRAINT

Quality inconsistencies due to varied sources.

The lack of standardization in propolis production remains a major bottleneck. Propolis composition can vary widely depending on the bee species, vegetation type, and region. For instance, Brazilian green propolis differs significantly in its Artepillin C content compared to Chinese brown propolis. A 2023 global sampling test by a European regulatory body found that 28% of imported propolis products failed to meet advertised flavonoid content levels. This variability raises concerns for manufacturers, particularly in pharmaceutical and clinical-use segments that demand consistency and traceability. These quality discrepancies have resulted in recalls of at least 35 propolis-based SKUs globally in 2023 alone.

OPPORTUNITY

Growth in personalized nutrition.

The global shift toward personalized nutrition presents a massive opportunity for the propolis market. Functional foods and dietary supplements tailored to individual health conditions are projected to dominate the wellness industry. Over 40 companies have launched DNA-based diagnostic kits that recommend natural supplements including propolis. In 2023, more than 3 million users subscribed to personalized supplement programs, of which 16% included propolis-based immunity boosters. This trend is particularly visible in the U.S. and U.K., where digital health platforms integrating propolis supplements with AI-based health tracking have grown by over 60% in subscriber base from 2022.

CHALLENGE

Rising costs and expenditures.

High costs associated with propolis extraction, purification, and quality assurance are impacting overall profitability. For instance, the price per kilogram of raw propolis in Brazil increased from USD 50 to USD 78 between 2021 and 2024 due to labor shortages and increased transportation costs. Sophisticated purification processes to meet pharmaceutical-grade standards can cost manufacturers up to USD 120 per liter of propolis tincture. Furthermore, regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions adds to expenses. Companies exporting to Europe must now comply with EU regulations that mandate traceability and maximum allowable pesticide levels, increasing testing costs by 18% year-on-year.

Propolis Market Segmentation

The propolis market is segmented by type and application. By type, the market includes propolis capsules, propolis liquids, propolis sprays, and others. By application, it is divided into online retails and offline retails.

By Type

Propolis Capsules: Propolis capsules are popular among consumers seeking convenient immunity-boosting supplements. In 2023, over 18 million bottles of propolis capsules were sold worldwide, with major consumption occurring in Europe and North America. Germany led with more than 4.2 million units sold, followed by the United States with 3.7 million units. These capsules are generally standardized to contain 500 mg of propolis extract per serving.
Propolis Liquids: Propolis liquids dominate the market due to their versatility. They are used in tinctures, oral drops, and mixed with honey. In 2023, the market witnessed the sale of over 25 million bottles of propolis liquid. Brazil remains the largest producer, exporting over 1,200 metric tons of propolis extract, primarily in liquid form. Propolis liquids are favored in Asia, especially Japan and Korea, where they are consumed directly or added to teas and tonics.
Propolis Spray: Propolis sprays are extensively used for oral hygiene and respiratory support. More than 8 million units were sold globally in 2023, with a 20% year-on-year increase in sales in South Korea. Typically available in 30ml bottles, these sprays are common in pharmacies and wellness centers and are often combined with other herbal extracts like echinacea or mint for enhanced functionality.
Other Forms: Other forms include propolis lozenges, toothpaste, skincare creams, and ointments. In 2023, over 900 propolis-based cosmetic and personal care SKUs were launched globally. South Korea accounted for 32% of these launches, followed by Japan at 24%.

By Application

Online Retails: Online sales of propolis products witnessed exponential growth, particularly during the COVID-19 period and continued into 2023 with a 22% rise. Platforms in the Asia-Pacific region saw over 10 million units sold online, led by mobile shopping applications in China and Korea. Digital channels have enabled direct-to-consumer brands to flourish, especially those promoting organic or local sourcing.
Offline Retails: Offline retail remains strong, particularly in pharmacies and wellness stores across Europe and North America. Over 60% of consumers in the U.S. still prefer buying health supplements from trusted brick-and-mortar outlets. Offline channels accounted for approximately 42 million unit sales globally in 2023.

Regional Outlook for the Propolis Market

The regional outlook of the propolis market reflects distinct consumption trends, production capabilities, regulatory influences, and distribution strategies across major global zones. Asia-Pacific remains the dominant region in terms of volume, with countries like Japan, China, and South Korea accounting for over 60% of total global consumption in 2023. Japan alone recorded more than 10 million units of propolis products sold during the year, led by consumer preferences for functional and herbal health solutions.

North America

In North America, the United States and Canada are the primary contributors to propolis market growth. In 2023, the U.S. alone accounted for over 7.5 million units of propolis supplements sold, with liquids and capsules representing 72% of total product volume. The rise in consumer inclination toward organic supplements has led to 900+ SKUs on the market featuring USDA-certified propolis. Health-conscious millennials and baby boomers continue to drive demand, particularly for immune health and skin care applications. Furthermore, over 1,100 pharmacies and health food stores across the U.S. introduced private-label propolis products in the last two years.

Europe

Europe represents a highly mature and regulated propolis market. Germany, France, and Poland are major consumer markets. In Germany, more than 4.2 million bottles of propolis capsules were sold in 2023, while Poland saw a 16% rise in consumption of propolis liquids. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has influenced stricter labeling and purity regulations, prompting companies to invest in third-party certifications. Over 2,800 SKUs available in Europe are marketed as allergen-free, organic, or sustainably harvested. European cosmetics brands have also embraced propolis, especially in facial care and acne treatment products, with France leading in propolis-based skin care items.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates global propolis demand, particularly in Japan, China, South Korea, and Australia. Japan alone consumed over 10 million units of propolis-based health products in 2023. South Korea is a leader in propolis skin care innovations, accounting for 38% of global cosmetic launches featuring propolis since 2020. China has emerged as a major consumer and producer, with over 800 tons of raw propolis harvested domestically in 2023. E-commerce channels in this region are highly active, with platforms recording more than 18 million product reviews for propolis items in 2023. Australia contributes significantly via exports of organic-certified propolis to East Asia.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa is an emerging market for propolis, especially in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Demand is centered around traditional and herbal medicine. In 2023, imports of propolis-based products into the UAE rose by 19%, primarily from Brazil and Europe. Local wellness chains and pharmacies introduced over 250 SKUs featuring propolis extracts, often blended with black seed oil or honey. South Africa is a notable consumer market within Africa, where over 1 million units of propolis sprays were sold in 2023, particularly for respiratory support.

List of Top Propolis Companies

Apis Flora
Wax Green
Comvita
MN Própolis
Apiário Polenectar
King’s Gel
Evergreen
Sunyata – Pon Lee
Uniflora
Manuka Health New Zealand
Zhifengtang
Wang’s
Bricaas
Baihua
Beewords
Zhonghong Biological
Baoshengyuan
Jiangshan Hengliang
Health & Love
Jiangsu Rigao Bee Products
Hubei Small Forest
Healthy Care
Swisse
Nature's Answer
Apis Familia
By-Health
Spring Leaf
TangChao
YiShanKangBao
Zirkulin
TongRenTang
Nature's Care

Comvita: Comvita, based in New Zealand, accounts for over 14% of the global propolis product sales by volume, especially in Asia-Pacific. The company distributes to more than 18 countries and launched 20 new propolis SKUs in 2023, including sprays, tinctures, and capsules with UMF-certified manuka honey blends.

Apis Flora: Apis Flora, a Brazilian company, exports to over 30 countries and leads in green propolis-based pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products. The company processes over 600 metric tons of raw propolis annually and launched 15 new functional health formulations between 2022 and 2024.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

Investment in the global propolis market is surging due to increasing consumer preference for natural, functional ingredients. Between 2020 and 2024, over USD 180 million was invested globally in propolis processing technologies, with 38% of the investment allocated to Brazil and New Zealand, the two largest exporting nations. Notably, 15 new propolis extraction and processing facilities were established in Brazil alone between 2022 and 2023, with a combined output capacity exceeding 900 metric tons annually. Private equity firms and health-focused venture capitalists have demonstrated keen interest in propolis startups. In 2023, five new nutraceutical startups raised more than USD 60 million collectively to scale operations and expand propolis-based product lines. For instance, an Australia-based company received USD 12 million in Series B funding to commercialize nano-emulsified propolis for better bioavailability. Retail expansion also indicates strong investor confidence. In South Korea, four major health store chains have committed to increase propolis shelf space by 30% across 400 retail outlets by the end of 2024. Furthermore, online marketplaces in Southeast Asia and Europe saw a 27% increase in digital advertising budgets allocated specifically to propolis campaigns in 2023. Research and development present another lucrative investment opportunity. Currently, over 120 patents related to propolis formulation, delivery systems, and functional blends are filed globally. Several biotech firms are exploring the use of propolis in oncology, dermatology, and chronic inflammatory conditions. A U.K.-based biotech firm reported that its clinical-stage propolis nasal spray reduced upper respiratory inflammation by 42% in controlled trials involving 180 patients.

New Product Development

Innovation in propolis-based product development has seen a dramatic rise over the last two years. In 2023 alone, over 1,200 new SKUs were launched globally featuring propolis as the key bioactive ingredient. Leading innovations include multi-functional blends that combine propolis with CBD, turmeric, ginseng, and manuka honey. In cosmetics, South Korean companies released 80+ new products between 2022 and 2024 under their K-beauty lines that integrate propolis in formulations for anti-aging, moisturizing, and acne care. These include emulsions, sheet masks, and night creams with propolis concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 5%. Lotte and Innisfree both launched propolis-rich serums in Q2 2023, which collectively sold more than 1.2 million units within six months.

In the nutraceutical sector, enhanced bioavailability is the central theme. A new nano-encapsulated propolis capsule launched in Japan claims 3x absorption compared to traditional ethanol-extracted propolis. It recorded 500,000 unit sales within 3 months of launch in mid-2023. Similarly, water-soluble propolis powders developed in New Zealand are being increasingly used in beverage sachets and functional gummies. In the functional foods category, over 70 new items were released including energy bars, herbal teas, lozenges, and yogurt fortified with propolis. One notable launch was a propolis-infused iced tea in China that sold 2 million units in its first three months. Propolis honey blends are also gaining popularity, with over 50 new brands offering propolis-honey wellness packs in 2023. Packaging innovations are also emerging, especially with airless pump sprays and UV-protected tincture bottles aimed at preserving antioxidant content. A U.S.-based brand introduced a child-safe, berry-flavored propolis oral spray in 2024 that contains no ethanol and is designed for pediatric immunity support, selling 300,000 units within 100 days of launch.

Five Recent Developments

Comvita launched a new line of certified organic propolis liquids in Q3 2023, targeting premium health consumers in Japan, selling over 250,000 units in the first quarter post-launch.
Apis Flora established a new processing facility in Minas Gerais, Brazil in early 2024 with a capacity of 350 metric tons annually, aimed at fulfilling growing European orders.
Manuka Health New Zealand patented a water-soluble propolis formula in 2023, claiming 5x better absorption and securing supply deals with three Southeast Asian e-retailers.
Swisse launched a propolis-CBD hybrid tincture in Australia in 2024, becoming the first mainstream supplement brand in the region to market this combination; over 180,000 units were sold in six months.
South Korea’s Innisfree rolled out a 7-product propolis cosmetic line in 2023, with SKUs including serums, masks, and creams; total sales surpassed 900,000 units by Q1 2024.

Report Coverage of Propolis Market

This comprehensive report on the propolis market examines the entire value chain, from raw propolis harvesting to final product applications in supplements, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The report evaluates over 70 manufacturers and 30 exporting countries with trade data and unit-level sales metrics from 2020 to 2024. Detailed segmentation analysis includes four main product types—capsules, liquids, sprays, and others—and their respective market shares in retail distribution. The scope also covers both online and offline retail structures, analyzing consumer trends, pricing patterns, and brand strategies. Special emphasis is placed on extraction technologies, bioavailability enhancements, and regulatory implications for exporting countries such as Brazil, China, and New Zealand. Regional analysis encompasses North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa, presenting unit sales, product availability, and policy influences in each market. Moreover, the report tracks over 150 new product launches, 120 patent filings, and 60 brand partnerships from 2022 to 2024, offering strategic insights for new entrants and investors. Investment trends in infrastructure, research, and M&A activities are presented in depth, while the innovation pipeline is explored with case studies on nano-encapsulation, water solubility improvements, and hybrid ingredient blending. Finally, the report outlines emerging opportunities in personalized nutrition, pediatric care, and preventative health, substantiated by clinical trial data and retail sales figures.