Morocco's Commitment to Quality Table Olives
In a remarkable display of Morocco's agricultural prowess, the city of Marrakech hosted the inaugural national competition for table olive quality from October 28 to 30, 2026. Under the theme "Quality of Moroccan Table Olives," this event was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Sovereignty. The competition aimed to elevate the standards of Moroccan table olives, celebrate producer expertise, and promote the quality of this vital agricultural product.
According to the International Olive Council, the global production of table olives for the 2025-2026 season is anticipated to reach approximately 2.986 million tons, with consumption slightly lower at about 2.978 million tons and exports estimated at 754,500 tons. Generally, around 25% of the total olive production is converted into table olives. Within Morocco, the expected production of table olives in 2025 is set at around 120,000 tons, reflecting the country's significant role in the global olive market.
The regional agricultural directorate of Marrakech-Safi announced that this competition not only aims to enhance the quality of Moroccan table olives but also to encourage continuous improvement in production practices and distinguish the best products nationwide. A panel of both national and international experts evaluated 59 samples representing the primary olive-producing regions of Morocco. The competition's internal rules were crafted in accordance with the standards set by the International Olive Council, ensuring a rigorous assessment process.
This event was made possible through collaboration with various institutions, including the Directorate for the Development of Production Chains, the National Institute for Agricultural Research, and the Moroccan Interprofessional Olive Federation. A ceremony to award the winners is expected to take place in Marrakech during the first week of December 2026, coinciding with a session of the International Olive Council, highlighting the exceptional quality of Moroccan table olives.
In recent years, Morocco's olive sector has witnessed significant growth, particularly through the expansion of cultivated areas and modernization of the industry. These advancements have greatly contributed to enhancing production capacities and improving various stages of the value chain, positioning Morocco as a key player in the global olive market.
As reported by madar21.com.