Arabfields, Said Ali, Analyst & Specialist in Agricultural Policy and Economic Innovations — Algeria’s olive oil industry is emerging from an exceptional harvest, raising hopes of higher export revenues and stronger growth for producers, but limited international market access remains a major obstacle.

The country’s olive oil production was forecast to exceed 150,000 tonnes during the 2025/26 season, representing an increase of about 76% from the 85,000 tonnes recorded in the previous campaign, according to estimates announced by the National Interprofessional Council for the Olive Sector. The forecast, if confirmed, would mark a significant milestone for a sector that has struggled to translate its agricultural potential into a strong export business.

For farmers in regions such as Kabylia, where olive growing supports thousands of rural households, a larger harvest can mean more income and additional seasonal employment. But abundant production also creates pressure to find buyers, secure storage and ensure that the oil reaches consumers before quality deteriorates.

Algeria’s olive-growing areas cover an estimated 440,000 to 500,000 hectares, with more than 65 million olive trees. The country also has around 1,700 olive oil mills, providing an extensive processing base for the industry.

Domestic consumption is estimated at approximately 80,000 to 81,000 tonnes a year. If production exceeds 150,000 tonnes, the resulting surplus could create new opportunities for exports, provided the harvest estimates are confirmed and the oil meets international quality requirements.

Yet the country’s export performance remains modest compared with its production potential. Recent industry assessments have put annual olive oil exports at around 1,000 tonnes, highlighting the gap between Algeria’s agricultural capacity and its presence in international markets.

One of the main challenges is the ability to compete beyond the domestic market. Certification requirements, packaging costs, logistics and the need to establish reliable commercial networks can make it difficult for smaller producers to reach foreign buyers. Much will depend on whether Algerian businesses can develop recognised brands and offer consistent quality at competitive prices.

The price environment at home also matters. In December 2025, olive oil prices in Algeria generally ranged between 800 and 1,000 dinars per litre, according to market observations reported at the time. A larger harvest does not automatically translate into lower retail prices, particularly when storage, transport, processing and distribution costs remain high.

For small producers, the priority is often to sell enough oil to cover the costs of harvesting and maintaining their orchards. Exporters, meanwhile, need sufficient volumes and dependable quality to fulfil contracts over several months. Better cooperation between farmers, mills and commercial operators could help address these competing needs.

The outlook for the coming seasons will depend on weather conditions, water availability, orchard productivity and investment in modern agricultural practices. A record harvest in 2025/26 would provide a strong starting point, but it should not be treated as a guarantee of similarly high production in the following campaign.

If output remains above domestic demand and businesses succeed in opening new markets, Algeria could gradually increase its role in Mediterranean olive oil trade. However, export growth is likely to be gradual rather than immediate, given the need to build distribution networks, improve product presentation and establish long-term relationships with international buyers.

The opportunity extends beyond selling more oil. Developing bottled products, strengthening traceability and promoting regional varieties could allow Algerian producers to capture more value from each litre exported. Investment in water management and processing technology would also help the sector cope with climate pressures and changing harvest conditions.

For Algeria’s olive-growing communities, the real test will be whether a successful harvest produces lasting economic benefits. Greater production has created an opening for the industry, but turning that opportunity into stable rural incomes and a stronger international reputation will require sustained investment, better organisation and a clear export strategy.