Advertise
Tayseer Al-Najdawi, head of the Olive Press Owners and Olive Producers Syndicate in Jordan, revealed that olive pressing fees may see an increase of 5% to 10% this season, describing the hike as "limited" given the rising operational and maintenance costs faced by the presses.
Al-Najdawi explained that pressing fees have remained steady at 65 piasters per kilogram of oil for about 12 years, despite a significant accumulation of operational and maintenance costs over the past years. He noted that maintenance costs have risen noticeably in the last two years, especially since presses must import spare parts and equipment from abroad due to the lack of local manufacturing for these components.
Al-Najdawi emphasized that press owners have maintained existing fee levels over the past years to support farmers, stressing that the anticipated increase does not correspond to the actual scale of rising costs.
Readiness of 153 Olive Presses
Regarding preparations for the current season, Al-Najdawi reported that 153 licensed presses distributed across the Kingdom's governorates are ready to receive the olive harvest, with most expected to begin operations within about 15 days. He projects production to reach approximately 30,000 tons, with positive indicators suggesting a better season than the last.
He pointed out that the previous season was difficult, as olive oil production did not exceed 20% of the average local output, which typically ranges between 25,000 and 35,000 tons. He added that production this season is expected to be between 28,000 and 32,000 tons, against a local consumption estimated at 25,000 to 28,000 tons, which may create a surplus that opens the door to discussing exports after ensuring self-sufficiency.
Olive Oil Prices
Regarding olive oil pricing, Al-Najdawi explained that prices are subject to supply and demand, expecting the price of a tin of oil this season to range between 90 and 110 Jordanian Dinars, depending on quality and grade. He noted that the final price depends on production levels, supply volume, and the quality of the oil produced, adding that priority at the start of the season will be given to meeting local market needs.
Source: Saraya News Agency