Abstract  [Aim]  To investigate the current production status of different apiary feeding methods, focusing on apiary input and output. [Methods]  Sixty-two fixed observation apiaries were selected in Jiangxi, Zhejiang, Hubei, and Xizang. The apiaries were monitored for three consecutive years between 2021 to 2023. The effect of different feeding methods on apiary basic conditions, production investment, output situation, and honey and royal jelly production were compared. [Results]  The average age of beekeepers is 52.9 years old, showing an aging trend. The Apis cerana cerana apiary had significantly more colonies than the Apis mellifera ligustica apiary. The annual total investment cost of a permanent apiary is significantly lower compared to a migratory beekeeping apiary. However, the annual per capita income of a permanent A. cerana cerana apiary is significantly higher compared to an A. mellifera ligustic apiary. The average selling price of A. cerana cerana honey is nearly 1-4 times that of A. mellifera ligustica honey. Honey is the main source of income for beekeepers, especially with regards to the A. cerana cerana apiary which has a 92.5% yield. [Conclusion]  It is essential to continue to promote permanent apiary and migratory beekeeping models. Additionally, the parallel breeding of A. cerana cerana and A. mellifera ligustic in the apiary should be encouraged. We have proposed three strategies to maintain the sustainable development of beekeeping apiaries.