Tunisia Confirms its Position as a Leader in the Global Olive Oil Sector
According to international expert Mohamed Bouaziz, Tunisian olive oil is "currently at the top" in terms of quality, taste, and nutritional value, winning prestigious international awards every year in the most demanding competitions. This success reflects the excellence of Tunisian olive oil and its superiority compared to other oils on the global market. "Olive oil is not just a flagship product; it's a strategic sector for the Tunisian economy," he said in a statement to Diwan FM on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. "It contributes to the creation of direct and indirect jobs for over a million Tunisians each season, while generating foreign exchange and supporting the country's economic stability." He added that the sector plays a major social and economic role, constituting a pillar for rural communities and the national economy as a whole.
Maintaining Leadership
To maintain this leadership position, Mohamed Bouaziz emphasizes the importance of supporting farmers and strengthening their training. He recommends programs that cover all stages of production, from planting and maintaining olive trees to harvesting, extraction, storage, and export. This approach ensures the sustainability of production and continuous improvement of quality.
The Role of Universities
The role of Tunisian universities is also essential. They support producers and sector actors through training, scientific research, and the development of innovative techniques. This collaboration between higher education, the state, and the private sector is crucial for protecting and strengthening this national heritage, while preparing the future of the Tunisian olive oil market on the international stage.
Innovative Projects
Beyond olive oil itself, Tunisia is exploring innovative projects such as green hydrogen produced from olive groves and solar energy, illustrating the country's orientation towards sustainability and innovation in the agri-food sector. According to Bouaziz, maintaining this level of excellence requires the mobilization of all actors and a continuous commitment to ensure that Tunisia retains its position as a global leader.
