AMMAN — The Kingdom’s olive oil production is expected to reach between 32,000 and 35,000 tonnes this season, exceeding earlier estimates of 30,000 tonnes, Olive Press Owners Association President Taysir Najdawi said on Saturday.

 

Speaking to Al Mamlaka, Najdawi said that domestic consumption is estimated at between 25,000 and 26,000 tonnes, leaving an anticipated surplus of 6,000 to 7,000 tonnes.

 

“Most of the surplus is expected to be exported, while part will be retained as a strategic reserve.”

 

“The olive harvesting season officially began over the past three days after being delayed by two to three weeks to allow the fruit to ripen,” Najdawi said, adding that demand for olive presses had increased in recent days, with olives recording high oil yields.

 

Prices for regular extra virgin olive oil are expected to range between JD95 and JD100, while higher-quality oil is likely to sell for between JD110 and JD120, he said.

 

“Olive pressing fees have also increased by around 10 piastres per kilogram. However, most olive presses have yet to implement the increase this season, with current fees ranging between 65 and 70 piastres per kilogram.”

 

He stressed that exports would not be allowed until domestic demand is fully met, adding that shipments are expected to begin on November 20.

 

“The expected start of exports comes ahead of the National Olive Oil Festival, scheduled to run from November 26 to December 5.”

 

Najdawi also highlighted the rising production costs facing farmers in recent years, citing higher expenses for harvesting, transportation, olive pressing, labour, ploughing, pruning and pesticide spraying.

 

The cost of harvesting 100 kilograms of olives has risen to approximately JD30–JD35, he added.