Tunisia's Olive Oil Production Expected to Reach New Heights
The economic advisor to the president of the Tunisian Union of Agriculture and Fishing (UTAP), Fathi Ben Khalifa, announced on Sunday, October 26, 2025, that the governorate of Sfax is expected to become the national leader in olive oil production, with an estimated average of 100,000 tonnes.
National Production to Exceed 500,000 Tonnes
According to his estimates, the national production could exceed 500,000 tonnes for the 2025-2026 season, a promising figure for the Tunisian olive oil sector.
Positive Signals for the Sector
Speaking on National Radio, Ben Khalifa welcomed the positive signals surrounding this campaign, citing the mobilization of public authorities, including the National Oil Office, banks, and the Ministry of Trade. He also highlighted the role of the Export Promotion Center (CEPEX), whose delegation recently visited Asia to open up new commercial opportunities.
Opportunity to Increase Exports
The official recalled that the expected 10% decrease in global olive oil production, from 3 million to 2.7 million tonnes, represents a strategic opportunity for Tunisia to increase its exports at advantageous prices, thereby strengthening foreign exchange earnings for farmers, oil mills, and exporters.
Ensuring a Safe and Dignified Harvest
He emphasized the need to ensure the necessary labor for the harvest in safe and dignified conditions, while calling for the valorization of this national wealth through conditioning, market diversification, and the development of scientific research in medical, food, and aromatic biotechnology.
Promoting Local Consumption
Ben Khalifa finally invited the Ministries of Trade, Health, and Export Development to launch awareness campaigns to encourage Tunisians to consume more local olive oil, highlighting its nutritional and health benefits.
Redirecting Budgets to Support the Olive Oil Sector
He also suggested redirecting budgets allocated to importing vegetable oils towards supporting the olive oil sector, recalling that Tunisia now produces high-quality vegetable oils, such as colza oil, considered the second in nutritional value after olive oil.
