Tunisia's Olive Sector Faces Challenges
In an interview on the Midi Eco show this Thursday, Fathi Ben Khlifa, economic advisor to the Tunisian Union of Agriculture and Fishing, stated that the previous season was a failure for the olive sector due to low production and poor management, a responsibility shared by all parties involved.
According to him, the lack of trust between different stakeholders has harmed the national interest. The first failure was the announcement by the Olive Oil Office to purchase oil at 9 dinars per liter, without specifying who set this price or made the decision.
He also highlighted that four of the main players in the sector (exporters and packers) are currently outside the production and exploitation cycle, which has had a negative impact on the market. He added that the announcement of olive oil sale prices should be made within the framework of a national consensus that takes into account the interests of all parties.
Regarding the current season, Fathi Ben Khlifa stated: "We started it with caution and prudence to ensure profitability and establish a climate of trust." He emphasized that the success of the harvest collection and storage depends on the transparent determination of storage capacity.
He also acknowledged the weakness of olive oil marketing, calling for the adoption of a clear and integrated policy to open up new prospects for this national product.
Key Points:
- Low production and poor management led to a failed season for Tunisia's olive sector
- Lack of trust between stakeholders harmed the national interest
- Four main players in the sector are currently outside the production and exploitation cycle
- A national consensus is needed to determine olive oil sale prices
- The current season started with caution to ensure profitability and establish trust
- Transparent determination of storage capacity is crucial for the success of the harvest collection and storage
- A clear and integrated policy is needed to improve olive oil marketing and open up new prospects for the product.
