When the 2025 finance law was being drawn up, the projections for export revenues were based on TND 7 billion, despite low prices in December 2024, which meant there was a risk of an unrealistic budget, according to Fawzi Zayani, an agricultural policy expert.
Appearing on Express FM, he explained that world prices had fallen, noting that the selling price of Tunisian olive oil was lower than that of Italy, Spain and other countries.
He said that prices had risen last season, affecting world consumption, and that the sales policy had been reviewed and production optimized, leading to a fall in prices.
He noted a slight improvement in exports of packaged olive oil, with exports increasing by around 10 per cent to a total of 180,000 tons, most of which was sold in bulk.
He added that packaged olive oil has a high added value, particularly when new promotional methods are adopted.
He stressed the importance of having representatives present at trade fairs and exhibitions, selling Tunisian olive oil in collaboration with the state and private individuals, as well as exporters.
He also emphasized the need for a direct presence in several regions in China, India and other countries.
“There is no clear promotion and marketing policy,” he added, lamenting Tunisia’s modest presence and lack of significant participation, despite being the second largest producer and exporter of olive oil.
He also underscored that Africa is a promising market and that several markets should be targeted. He noted that there are several historical and geographical advantages, but that “we have not made sufficient use of them.”
Zayani pointed out that the damage caused to this sector is having a negative impact on farmers and the economy.
He noted that the figures are worrying, as the drop is half that of last year, while also highlighting that the cost of production is higher than in previous years.
He explained that it is only natural to be affected by the global situation, but that it is necessary to establish a Tunisian national agricultural identity to access new markets and support the efforts of the state.
National and international expertise could also be utilised for this purpose.
