Lang
Experts have said the sharp decline in Jordan's olive oil production during the 2025 season can be explained by a combination of two main factors: the traditional phenomenon known as alternate bearing, and the increasingly complex effects of climate change.
In remarks to the Jordan News Agency (Petra), the specialists said the sector's performance this year makes a proactive plan for the coming season essential, noting that the majority of Jordan's olive trees are rain-fed, leaving them "more exposed to climate volatility".
Commentators noted that investment in supplementary irrigation and the use of modern harvesting techniques could limit losses that may otherwise reach "substantial" levels, which would in turn strengthen domestic market supply and improve efficiency across the value chain.
According to the findings of Jordan's 2025 olive oil survey, published by the Department of Statistics, the olive oil sector recorded a "marked" contraction in 2025, with total output reaching 16,342 tonnes, its lowest level since the 2009 season.
Department of Statistics figures showed this output represents a 34.4% decline against average production over the 2012-2024 period of 24,923 tonnes, and a steep 54.4% fall against the 2024 season, when production reached 35,828 tonnes.
The volume of olives destined for pressing also fell to 84,154 tonnes this season, compared with 184,903 tonnes last season and an average of 127,746 tonnes over the same period, reflecting a simultaneous decline in both crop volume and output.
The results also showed production concentrated geographically in the kingdom's northern governorates, with presses in Irbid governorate leading output at around 5,500 tonnes, followed by Ajloun at around 3,300 tonnes.
By contrast, the survey found Aqaba governorate recorded the lowest output at around 52 tonnes, underlining the production gap between the north and south of the kingdom.