A combination of the temporary suspension of tariffs negotiated by the United States and European Union last month, challenging climatic conditions, COVID-19 pandemic and global olive oil consumption outpacing production in the current crop year have all contributed to the increasing prices.
“It has been a strange international harvest, where none of the forecasts have been fulfilled for climatic reasons and industrial performance,” Vilar said.
Production Rebounds in France Amid Climatic Challenges
Frost, hail and torrential rains dampened the 2020 olive harvest in France. It will still be better than last year and producers report that quality is as good as ever.
Photo: Louisa Sherman
After a catastrophic end to the 2019/20 crop year, in which the expected harvest fell from 5,900 tons to just over 3,250 tons, olive oil production in France looks set to rebound.
According to the latest figures from the International Olive Council (IOC), France will produce 5,200 tons in the current crop year. While this yield is slightly above the rolling five-year average, it shows French production trending downwards.