Bari hosts international organic olive oil awards amid industry crisis protests

The olive oil sector in Italy is facing both industry recognition and significant economic tension. In Bari, the 31st edition of the Biol International Award is set to take place from March 18 to 20. Organized by Biol Italia, the event features 504 oils from 17 different countries competing for the title of the world's best organic extra virgin olive oil. A panel of 34 international experts will judge the entries, which include 310 Italian labels.

Simultaneously, the industry is mobilizing to address a severe crisis. Members of the national committee 'Orgoglio Olivicolo' have organized a protest in Bari to demand urgent political intervention. The group represents a supply chain involving over 16,000 olive-growing businesses and approximately 30,000 workers, including farmers, mill operators, and logistics personnel. Protesters intend to deliver a platform of 10 specific institutional requests to the Prefecture to safeguard employment, income, and exports within the sector.