While discussions are ongoing in Italy (awaiting the new Olive Oil Plan, which is yet to be finalized), Tunisia is taking action. This includes conquering foreign markets, particularly those in Italy and Spain, including triangulation. According to data released during the summit chaired by Trade Minister Samir Abid, exports of “green gold” reached 108.000 tons in the last quarter of 2025.
The numbers of the season
The month of December marked the peak of activity with 50.000 tons exported, nearly half of the entire quarterly volume. The turnover analysis highlights a clear prevalence of loose products, but with attractive margins for packaged products:
Bulk oil: 94.000 tons worth 1,139 billion dinars (approximately 340 million euros);
Packaged oil: 14.000 tons which generated 240 million dinars (approximately 72 million euros).
With the opening of January 2026, the green light has also been given for subsidized exports within the quotas reserved by the European Union, a crucial step for maintaining the pace of growth.
Strategies and support for producers
During the meeting, the Minister outlined the course for the coming months, urging industry players to accelerate operations and expand their export base. The stated goal is “optimal marketing” that does not neglect the domestic market while firmly targeting foreign markets.
“The success of the campaign depends on close coordination between all actors”, said Abid, reiterating the government’s commitment to supporting small farmers and processors, ensuring technical and logistical assistance at every stage of the supply chain.
Attack plan on foreign markets
2026 will be a year of strong promotional push. The CEO of Cepex (Export Promotion Center) has announced a very busy schedule to consolidate the Tunisian brand in the world:
30 promotional activities aimed exclusively at the olive oil sector;
exploration missions in new strategic markets;
programs to consolidate international positioning to increase the added value of local products.
The meeting concluded with a definition of priorities for the first half of the year, confirming olive oil as one of the fundamental pillars of Tunisia’s trade balance.
Dining and Cooking