After a decrease in olive oil imports in 2023 in Albania, an increase is observed again in 2024. According to customs data, from January to October 2024, 49 tons of olive oil where imported.This amount is up 49% compared to the same period last year.
In monetary value, imports for the same ten-month period amounted to 52 million lek, an increase of 90% compared to 2023. For the period 2019-2024, the highest amount of olive oil imports was recorded in 2020, during the COVID- 19 pandemonium, reaching 440 tons.
Olive oil producers and processors report that the increase in imports in 2024 is mainly due to the decrease in domestic production in 2023. This decrease was the result of overproduction in 2022. olives are harvested and olive oil production usually occurs in October and November every year, and lower production in 2023 created deficits in the market, which were covered by imports.
In 2022, olive oil production in Albania reached 29.2 thousand tons, an increase of 13% compared to 2021. This was the highest production in the last 15 years. In 2023, however, production fell to 28.3 thousand tons, recording a 3% drop. Despite this year’s high olive harvest, their yields are 50% lower compared to 2023, due to large temperature fluctuations. As a result, total olive oil production is expected to cap by 2024.
in 2023, olive oil exports showed a meaningful increase, mainly to italy, in the form of bulk product. According to customs data, exports increased 18 times compared to 2022, reaching 5,800 tons. This increase helped many farmers dispose of the surplus of 2022. Olive oil for export was sold at the collection points at prices that reached 550 lek per liter.
How can consumers support local olive oil producers in Albania during fluctuating market trends?
Interview: Olive Oil Trends in albania – Insights from Industry Expert Dr. Elira Gjoni
By Time.news Editor
In light of recent fluctuations in Albania’s olive oil market, we sat down with Dr. Elira Gjoni, an esteemed expert in agricultural economics, to discuss the implications of rising imports and changing production patterns in the olive oil industry.
Q: Dr. Gjoni, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start with the recent increase in olive oil imports in Albania.What are the key factors behind this trend?
A: Thank you for having me. The important 49% rise in olive oil imports from January to October 2024 can primarily be attributed to a decline in domestic production in 2023. After a peak in 2022,where we saw a record 29.2 thousand tons produced—an increase of 13% from the previous year—the production dropped to 28.3 thousand tons in 2023. Along with this drop, climate-related issues, particularly large temperature fluctuations, hindered yields by about 50%. So, the gaps in our domestic supply had to be filled through increased imports.
Q: That’s interesting. Can you elaborate on how these fluctuations affect the overall market for olive oil in Albania?
A: Certainly. The decrease in local production typically creates a ripple effect. With olive oil being a staple in manny Albanian households, any deficit leads to a rise in imports, which we are currently witnessing with a 90% increase in monetary value from 2023. The market has become reliant on these imports to meet consumer demand, especially as we’ve seen a spike in olive oil exports as well, primarily to Italy. This dynamic can affect prices and availability for local consumers in the long run.
Q: Speaking of exports, could you explain how the increase in olive oil exports has emerged as a mitigating factor for producers?
A: Of course. In 2023, we saw olive oil exports soar by 18 times compared to 2022, reaching 5,800 tons. This surge allowed farmers to offload the surplus generated in 2022 effectively. The bulk export pricing, which reached as high as 550 lek per liter at collection points, provided them with a financial buffer. This highlights an interesting aspect of our economy—the need to balance local consumption with international markets.
Q: What are the implications of the increased reliance on olive oil imports for farmers and producers in Albania?
A: Increased reliance on imports can be double-edged. on one hand, it provides immediate relief to fulfill market demands. Conversely, it poses a risk to local producers, potentially affecting their long-term viability and prices. If domestic production continues to decline or remain unstable, we may find ourselves dependent on imports, which can lead to fluctuating prices influenced by external market factors.
Q: As we look ahead to 2024, what should olive oil producers focus on to navigate these challenges effectively?
A: I advise producers to invest in sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate the impact of climate change and enhance yield consistency. Building resiliency within the supply chain is crucial.Additionally, diversifying crop production could also serve as a safeguard against the fluctuating olive oil market. Collaborating with cooperatives can also provide producers with a stronger voice when it comes to pricing and market access.
Q: Lastly, what practical advice would you give to consumers who may be concerned about the implications of these trends?
A: For consumers, I’d recommend staying informed about the origins of the olive oil they purchase.If possible, opt for locally produced options, as this supports local farmers and the economy. Additionally, understanding the seasonal patterns of production can definitely help consumers anticipate price fluctuations and availability in the market.
The conversation with Dr. Elira Gjoni highlighted not just the rising trends in Albania’s olive oil imports but also painted a thorough picture of the agricultural landscape. As the industry adapts, both producers and consumers must remain informed and engaged in these evolving dynamics.