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Jordan's Ministry of Agriculture has announced optimistic projections for the current olive oil season, forecasting a total production of approximately 30,000 tons. Osama Qattan, Director of the Olive Department at the Ministry, stated that this output comfortably exceeds the domestic consumption requirement of 25,000 tons, signaling a production surplus that secures the domestic market.
In recent statements, Qattan described the current season as 'promising and abundant,' noting that the Ministry is closely monitoring field developments in coordination with local agricultural directorates. Regarding market pricing, he indicated that a 16kg tin of olive oil is currently trading between 90 and 110 JOD, according to the General Association of Olive Oil Press Owners. He emphasized that prices remain subject to supply and demand dynamics, competition, and quality standards, with typical fluctuations expected as the harvest progresses.
Addressing a recent incident involving the seizure of imported oil being marketed as local Jordanian oil, Qattan clarified that this was an 'isolated case of fraud' involving a single trader. He stressed that such incidents do not reflect the integrity of the Jordanian olive oil sector. He further highlighted the continuous coordination between the Ministry, the Jordan Food and Drug Administration, and security authorities to protect the industry from such malpractices.
Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to host the National Olive Festival in late November and early December, providing a direct channel for consumers to access authentic products. On the trade front, Qattan confirmed that olive oil imports are currently off the table due to the production surplus. However, the decision regarding export quotas remains under review, with a formal announcement expected in the coming weeks based on market data and domestic priorities.
Source: Khaberni