Olive oil export revenues, from the beginning of the season until the end of February 2025, reached 1691.4 million dinars (MD), posting a 26.8% decrease compared to the same period in the previous season, according to data published on Monday by the National Observatory of Agriculture (ONAGRI).
However, the quantities of olive oil exported increased by 40.8%, reaching 132.2 thousand tons. Packaged olive oil accounted for only 10.2% of exports, while the majority was exported in bulk (89.8%).
The decline in export revenues is primarily attributed to the drop in the average price of olive oil. Notably, prices fell by 54.9% in February 2025 compared to the same period the previous year, ranging between TND 8.5/kg and TND 18.7/kg depending on the category.
ONAGRI also highlighted that the largest share of Tunisian exports is directed to the European market (59.4% of export volumes), followed by North America (24%) and Africa (9.5%).
Italy, the top importer of Tunisian olive oil
Italy remains the leading importer of Tunisian olive oil, accounting for 31.4% of the quantities exported during the first four months of the 2024/2025 season. It is followed by Spain (24%) and the United States (19.4%).
Regarding organic olive oil, export volumes reached 24.8 thousand tons, valued at approximately 343.5 MD by the end of February 2025. However, packaged organic olive oil represented only 4.2% of the total exported organic olive oil volume.
The average price of organic olive oil stood at TND 13.85/kg, ranging between TND 13.66/kg for bulk and TND 18.25/kg for packaged oil. Italy is also the top importer of Tunisian organic olive oil, accounting for 65% of exported quantities, followed by Spain (16%) and the United States (10%).
Series of measures for the olive oil sector
For years, the Tunisian government has been committed to a program aimed at enhancing the value of its high-quality olive oil. Through initiatives such as agri-food investments and innovative marketing strategies, the sector aims to transition from mass production to packaged oils.
Training initiatives have been deployed to promote environmentally friendly production practices, thereby enhancing biosafety, sustainability, and conservation.
The goal is clear: to position Tunisian olive oil on the global map, help local producers access high-value export markets, and improve product quality. Additionally, this initiative aims to strengthen the sector’s resilience to climate change.
The Tunisian olive oil sector, with roots dating back to pre-Roman times, is at a turning point in its history. Through strategic investments, well-thought-out export strategies, food safety measures, and a strong brand image, it is poised for a renaissance.
Tunisia can promote sustainable economic development, stimulate agricultural innovation, and strengthen its position as the world’s leading supplier of high-quality olive oil products. The future of Tunisian olive oil looks brighter than ever.
It is worth recalling that Tunisia recently secured first place globally at the International Afro-Asian Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition, organized by the Swedish group “International Olive Oil Competitions” in Abu Dhabi.
