This article reviews the development and present state of beekeeping in the Yucatan peninsula. It describes the particular situation of small-scale peasant beekeepers who collectively produce a substantial quantity of honey which is sold at competitive prices on the international market. A short historical overview gives the evolution from honey production with stingless bees to a modern beekeeping industry with the honey bee, Apis mellifera. The current beekeeping situation is described, including the status of honey production, its commercialization and exportation. Finally, the main problems that beekeepers face are summarized and future prospects for apiculture in the region suggested.