Italian olive oil supply chain in difficulty: AIFO calls on Masaf to implement controls, credit, and promotion

Alberto Amoroso

More punctual checks also on shelves, greater clarity on the market, strengthening of the DOP and IGP system, financial instruments to support businesses and a promotion campaign in favor of Italian oil. These are the main themes brought up by AIFO – Italian Association of Oil Millers at the Olive Oil Table convened today at Masaf, in the presence of Undersecretary Patrizio Giacomo La Pietra.

During the meeting, the President of AIFO, Alberto Amoroso, He drew attention to the difficulties of a sector struggling with sharply falling prices, still high costs, and increasingly aggressive foreign competition.

“The sector needs clarity and transparency – said –. For this reason, we believe it is essential to carry out timely checks along the supply chain and on the shelves, to protect consumers, defend quality Italian extra virgin olive oil, and combat unfair practices that penalize reputable companies.

AIFO also highlighted the need to strengthen the functioning of the PDO and PGI, fully recognizing the role of the mills in the supply chain. The miller, in fact, represents the decisive link in the transformationWithout modern, efficient, and well-respected mills, there can be no competitive Italian extra virgin olive oil.

Another central theme is that of access to creditThe president of AIFO underlined how many companies in the sector are currently highly exposed in comparisons of the banking system and need assistance, financial guarantees, and adequate tools to address investments, inventory management, and the new olive oil campaign.

During the round table, AIFO also asked to accelerate the start of the Olive Oil Plan, enhancing the decisions already shared with CNA Agroalimentare, and of launch a national communication campaign in favor of Italian oil, to support consumption, strengthen product recognition, and communicate its economic, nutritional, and territorial value.

“The Olive Tree Table represents an important step – President Amoroso concluded – but now we need concrete answers and rapid response. Supporting the mills means supporting an essential part of the supply chain and ensuring the future of Italian olive growing.”