HerzOliveFest promotes regional olive oil cooperation in Mostar

The inaugural HerzOliveFest, held in Mostar, brought together olive oil producers and experts from across the East Adriatic region to promote quality and cross-border cooperation. The event, organized by the Herzegovinian Association of Oil Millers and Olive Growers (HUUM), was held under the patronage of Borjana Krišto, President of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Participants from Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina showcased premium extra virgin olive oils. Notably, the Zadar County Olive Growers Association presented 14 top-tier oils that recently earned high honors at a major competition in New York. Representatives from Montenegro, including the Olive Growers Societies of Bar and Boka, also participated, discussing the potential for a unified regional brand, such as ‘Jewel of the Adriatic’.

Expert panels focused on the strategic development of the olive oil industry, emphasizing the need for education, sustainable practices, and regional connectivity to combat challenges like climate change and pests that do not respect national borders.