Algerian Region of Béjaïa Targets 16 Million Liters of Olive Oil for 2026-2027 Season

The Algerian region of Béjaïa is expecting a significant harvest of olives, with a target of 16 million liters of olive oil for the 2026-2027 season. This goal was announced by Mohamed Boutiba Benkelaouz, director of agricultural services in Béjaïa, on November 2. The region's 57,000 hectares of olive groves make it a major player in Algeria's olive oil production.

Béjaïa's olive oil production accounts for 12% of the national olive grove area and nearly 45% of its agricultural land is dedicated to olive cultivation. To further boost production, a program to plant 100,000 olive trees on 230 hectares was completed during the 2025-2026 season. This project, which cost 470 million dinars, aims to renew and expand productive areas.

The region has 393 olive oil mills, including 133 semi-automatic units, 100 continuous chain installations, and 160 traditional mills. These facilities have a combined processing capacity of 2,260 quintals of olives per hour. However, modernizing this equipment is crucial to improving transformation conditions and keeping up with production growth.

To enhance productivity, the Directorate of Agricultural Services plans to focus on renewing olive groves, intensifying plantations, and developing irrigation systems. These efforts aim to increase yields and better utilize the region's olive oil potential. Additionally, the rehabilitation of farms damaged by fires is a priority, with plans in place to restore affected areas.

The local authorities are also working to promote Béjaïa's olive oil on both national and international markets. A meeting with industry professionals is scheduled to discuss challenges facing the sector and potential measures to support its development. This includes exploring financing options, with several requests currently under review.

The olive oil sector in Béjaïa faces challenges, including the need for modernized equipment and support for farmers. However, the region's commitment to expanding and improving its olive oil production is clear. With the right strategies and investments, Béjaïa is poised to maintain its position as a leading producer of olive oil in Algeria.

The upcoming meeting with industry professionals will be crucial in addressing the difficulties faced by the sector and identifying solutions. By working together, the region can overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth and development in the olive oil industry.

Key points

• Béjaïa targets 16 million liters of olive oil production for the 2026-2027 season.
• The region has 57,000 hectares dedicated to olive cultivation, accounting for 12% of Algeria's national olive grove area.
• A program to plant 100,000 olive trees on 230 hectares was completed during the 2025-2026 season.