Turkey's Olive Oil Revolution: Historical Opportunities and Risks

Significant changes are happening in the world olive oil market. The contraction in olive oil supply presents a unique opportunity for Turkey. In an event organized jointly by the Izmir Commodity Exchange and Torbalı Municipality, the 2025-2026 olive and olive oil season was enthusiastically opened with a ceremony at the Metropolis Ancient City. Industry representatives gathered at the ceremony to evaluate the challenges and opportunities that this year's olive oil production will face.

Izmir Commodity Exchange Board Chairman Işınsu Kestelli emphasized in her speech that Turkey ranks among the top five in the world for olive resources. Turkey is also one of the top three countries in production, continuing its leadership in the quality of olive oil. However, it is expected that olive oil production will decline to around 3.26 million tons in the 2025-2026 season. This situation will also affect how olive oil prices are shaped in international markets.

With its variety of olives and high-quality standards in olive oil production, Turkey can gain a significant advantage over its competitors in the global market. However, there are some factors that need to be considered during this process. Optimization of agricultural policies, support for producers, and strengthening olive oil marketing strategies are crucial for enhancing Turkey’s competitiveness.

The current fluctuations in the international olive oil market are opening a window of opportunity for Turkish olive oil producers. The increase in olive oil demand could contribute to local producers who are evaluating these opportunities, allowing them to achieve significant gains in the coming years. Turkey should take steps to increase olive and olive oil production while developing innovative methods and practices to ensure sustainability in the global market.