Olive Plantations Prove Resilience to Climate Change and Drought
Olive plantations have demonstrated their significant capacity to resist climate change and drought, while also reducing carbon emissions, in addition to their economic and social role. This was stated by the Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Fisheries, Azzedine Ben Cheikh.
Speaking during his participation in the celebration of World Olive Day in the Spanish city of Cordoba on November 20, 2025, Ben Cheikh highlighted the central role of these plantations in creating jobs for rural communities.
The Minister recalled that Tunisia was one of the countries that initiated the proposal to adopt a World Olive Day within the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2019, in recognition of the symbolic value of this tree and its importance for promoting peace and solidarity among peoples.
Key Statistics on Olive Plantations in Tunisia
- Olive plantations in Tunisia represent 20% of the total area dedicated to this crop worldwide.
- As a result, Tunisia is the third-largest global producer, with an average production of around 240,000 tons per year and exports of 200,000 tons over the last decade.
- Tunisia is also a leading producer of organic olive oil.
- Revenue from olive oil exports provides approximately 50% of the total revenue from agricultural food exports, reflecting the strategic role of the sector in the national economy.
Commitment to Improving Olive Oil Quality
The Minister confirmed that Tunisia will continue to improve the quality of olive oil for export, with 80% of exported quantities being extra-virgin olive oil. This has enabled Tunisian oil to win numerous international awards, including prestigious prizes at the "Mario Solinas" world competition organized by the International Olive Council.
Promoting Olive Oil and Preserving Olive Trees
In this context, the Minister of Agriculture called on the various actors in the sector to intensify efforts to promote the characteristics and health benefits of olive oil and to raise awareness among consumers in global markets. He emphasized the importance of preserving olive trees as a sustainable agricultural choice and as a symbol of peace and resilience.
