Tunisia Accelerates International Expansion Strategy to Boost Packaged Olive Oil Exports
Tunisia is accelerating its international expansion strategy to strengthen its packaged olive oil exports, targeting new high-potential markets in Asia, Latin America, Russia, and Saudi Arabia. The decision was made on Monday, November 17, 2025, during a meeting of the National Council for Packaged Olive Oil, held at the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy under the presidency of Minister Fatma Thabet Chiboub. According to the ministry, this meeting is part of the efforts to expand the scope of intervention of the Packaged Olive Oil Promotion Fund and diversify export outlets. The participants approved the 2026 program, which continues to enhance the value of Tunisian origin and consolidate the presence of packaged products on traditional markets.
Key Objectives
- Develop support programs for young exporting companies to enhance their capabilities, prepare market access plans, promote their products, ensure commercial establishment, and obtain required certifications
- Monitor the progress of the 2025 promotional campaign and validate its follow-up for 2026
Production and Export Forecasts
The minister announced a production forecast of 500,000 tons for the 2025-2026 season, representing a 47% increase compared to the previous season, with 300,000 tons reserved for export. Packaged olive oil exports have progressed from 1,300 tons in 2006-2007 to 42,200 tons in 2024-2025.
Future Plans
The Council emphasized the need to strengthen coordination between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Agriculture to unify international promotion strategies. It also announced the upcoming national competition for the best packaged olive oil for the 2025-2026 season. According to the minister, the government attaches particular importance to this strategic sector, in line with the decisions of the restricted ministerial council of October 25, 2025, aiming to position Tunisia as a country of origin for high-end packaged olive oil, conforming to the standards of the International Olive Council.
