Tunisia’s Olive Harvest Lagging Behind Schedule, Says Union Leader
Midani Dhaoui, President of the Tunisian Farmers’ Union, announced on Wednesday, 25 February 2026 that the progress of the olive harvest in Tunisia is currently between 80 % and 85 %, a pace he described as “late.”
Key Points
- Delayed Harvest: The current advancement rate (80‑85 %) is considered tardy for this stage of the season.
- Decision‑making Bottlenecks: Dhaoui told radio listeners that the campaign has been hampered by hesitation from authorities, the banking sector, and the National Oil Office (ONH) in making timely decisions.
- Price‑Setting Issues: He highlighted a delay in fixing olive‑oil prices, noting that producers have not received adequate guidance or support.
- Controversial “Tayah El Sarafa” Campaign:
- Initiated by Deputy Bilel Mechri and several activists.
- Encourages farmers to suspend the harvest as a protest against collapsing oil prices.
- Dhaoui warns that this move could significantly damage the current olive‑oil campaign and jeopardize the next season’s production, estimated at around 500,000 tons.
Context
The Tunisian olive sector, a cornerstone of the national agricultural economy, is facing a perfect storm of challenges: late harvesting, unclear pricing mechanisms, and political activism that may disrupt the supply chain.
Implications
- Economic Impact: A delayed harvest and potential reduction in next‑season output could affect export revenues and domestic oil supply.
- Farmer Sentiment: The lack of clear price signals and institutional support is fueling frustration among growers, prompting calls for more decisive government action.
- Policy Recommendations: Stakeholders suggest the need for swift price‑setting, financial incentives, and clear communication from the ONH and relevant ministries to stabilize the sector.
For further updates on Tunisia’s agricultural developments and olive‑oil market trends, stay tuned to our coverage.
