The Sidi Bouzid region in Tunisia is expecting an olive harvest of approximately 350,000 tons for the 2026/2027 agricultural season. This forecast was announced during a recent meeting at the regional government office, which focused on preparations for the upcoming olive harvest. The region is a significant producer of olives in Tunisia.

The anticipated harvest for 2026/2027 represents a fluctuation in production compared to previous seasons. In the 2025/2026 season, the region produced 500,000 tons of olives, while in 2024/2025, it produced 310,000 tons. The 2023/2024 season saw a lower yield of 200,000 tons, and in 2022/2023, the region produced 193,000 tons. The 2021/2022 season had a harvest of 150,000 tons.

The Sidi Bouzid region is preparing for the olive harvest, which is expected to start in the second half of October. The region has 119 olive oil presses with a combined capacity of 6,274 tons per day. Storage capacity in the region stands at 20,448 tons, with 1,400 tons stored at the Diwan of Oil, 18,048 tons at private presses, and 1,000 tons at the Diwan of International Lands.

Olive groves cover a significant portion of the Sidi Bouzid region, with over 307,000 hectares of land dedicated to olive cultivation. This represents about 75% of the region's cultivated land. Of these olive groves, 19% are irrigated, and they account for 93% of the region's fruit-bearing trees. The region boasts over 23 million olive trees, making it a crucial sector for the local economy.

The olive sector in Sidi Bouzid plays a vital role in the region's agriculture and economy. With a large area dedicated to olive cultivation and a substantial number of olive trees, the sector provides significant employment and income opportunities for local residents. The region's authorities are working to ensure a smooth harvest and optimal production.

The production of olives and olive oil is a significant contributor to Tunisia's agricultural output and export earnings. The country's olive oil is renowned for its quality, and the sector provides a vital source of income for many rural communities. The Sidi Bouzid region's olive harvest is a key component of Tunisia's overall olive production.

As the olive harvest approaches, the region's farmers and authorities are working to address any challenges and ensure a successful harvest. With a favorable forecast and adequate preparations in place, the 2026/2027 season is expected to be productive for olive producers in the Sidi Bouzid region.

Key points

  • The Sidi Bouzid region in Tunisia expects to produce 350,000 tons of olives in the 2026/2027 season.
  • The region has 119 olive oil presses with a combined capacity of 6,274 tons per day.
  • Olive groves cover over 307,000 hectares of land in the Sidi Bouzid region.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.