The quality of Tunisian olive oil is beyond reproach, especially when it comes to extra virgin oils.
Rich in natural flavors such as tomato, almond and herbs, Tunisian olive oil continues to stand out for its high quality.
Continuous efforts are being made to promote this excellence internationally.
According to recently released official figures, Tunisia has become the second largest supplier of bottled olive oil to the United States, generating a significant trade surplus.
In fact, by the end of August 2024 (2023-2024 season), olive oil revenues had risen by almost 62% to reach 4.8 billion dinars, according to the National Olive Oil Office.
The ONH pointed out that since the start of the season (November 1, 2023), Tunisia has exported almost 181,258 tons of olive oil, including 23,946 tones packaged, worth 692 million dinars (MD), an increase of 36%.
The average price of a ton of olive oil exported to international markets was almost 26,508 dinars, while the price of a packaged ton sold on the international market was 28,899 dinars.
Tunisia exported almost 175,669 tons of olive oil in the 2022-2023 season, with a value of 2.9 billion dinars. The average export price per ton was almost 16,918 dinars.
The quantities of packaged olive oil exported in the 2022-2023 season are around 17,559 tons, with revenues of almost 367 million dinars, as the average export price per ton is almost 20,890 dinars.
The food trade balance at the end of July 2024 showed a surplus of 1,727.8 million dinars (MD), according to data published on Monday by the National Observatory for Agriculture (ONAGRI).
According to the Observatory, the surplus is mainly due to the increase in olive oil exports (+73.5%).
Tunisian olive oil has just won 15 out of a total of 33 prizes at the 24th Mario Solinas Quality Competition for Extra Virgin Olive Oil in the northern hemisphere, announced the National Olive Oil Office.
A series of measures for the Tunisian olive sector
For years, the Tunisian government has been committed to a program to promote its quality olive oil. Through initiatives such as agri-food investments and innovative marketing strategies, the sector aims to move from mass production to bottled oils.
Training initiatives have been introduced to promote environmentally friendly production practices, improving biosecurity, sustainability and conservation.
The aim is clear: to put Tunisian olive oil on the world map, help local producers access high-value export markets and improve product quality.
The initiative also aims to strengthen the sector’s resilience in the face of climate change.
With roots dating back to pre-Roman times, the Tunisian olive sector is at a turning point in its history. It is preparing for a renaissance thanks to wise investments, well thought-out export strategies, food safety measures and a solid brand image.
Tunisia can promote sustainable economic development, stimulate agricultural innovation and strengthen its position as the world’s leading supplier of quality olive products. The future of Tunisian olive oil looks brighter than ever (…).
