Italian olive oil sector faces crisis and potential financial aid

The Italian olive oil sector is facing a significant crisis characterized by price pressure, high inventory levels, and a lack of liquidity among businesses ahead of the new olive harvest season.

Following discussions at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forestry between Minister Francesco Lollobrigida and agricultural officials from Puglia, Calabria, Campania, and Basilicata, several financial support measures are being considered. Potential interventions include financial instruments from ISMEA and support from AGEA to address the needs of the supply chain.

Minister Lollobrigida noted that while biodiversity remains a strength of the industry, the sector is struggling with market fluctuations and unfair practices that prevent proper remuneration for olive growers and millers. The crisis is compounded by production contractions, such as those caused by Xylella, alongside broader market instability.