Drought and poor harvests are forcing Jordan to consider importing olive oil

Olive oil production in Jordan has fallen to one of its lowest levels in recent years, prompting the government to consider limited imports from Tunisia, Lebanon, and Spain to stabilize the market.

The sharp decline is due to the combined effects of drought and the irregular fruiting of olive trees. According to the International Olive Council, Jordan has produced an average of 25,500 tons of olive oil over the past five seasons—typically enough to meet domestic demand of around 22,000 tons per year.

Unofficial estimates suggest that production could fall by 50% this season, with even more significant losses in some regions.

“This is the leanest season I’ve ever seen,” said Hadi Qureishat, a local farmer. “Last year, five bags of olives yielded 50 to 55 kilograms of oil. This year, the same amount yielded only 20-22 kilograms.” He attributed the crop failure to drought and lack of rain.

Despite the decline, some irrigated areas are showing resilience. According to Ammon News, production in irrigated olive growing regions is expected to double compared to last year, with 22 to 23 percent of Jordan’s olive orchards irrigated.

Olive trees account for approximately 20 percent of Jordan’s agricultural land and about 75 percent of its fruit-growing area, making them the country’s most important crop. But due to dwindling reserves and declining yields, olive oil prices have risen sharply. In most regions, extra virgin olive oil now sells for around €9.80 per liter—a record price for Jordan, comparable to premium retailers in southern Europe.

To address the shortage, the Ministry of Agriculture has introduced temporary measures. Each Palestinian family crossing the border with Jordan can now import up to 70 liters of olive oil per year. This rule is intended to support smallholder farmers through direct sales, despite current import restrictions.

The Ministry has also suspended all green olive exports this season, advising farmers to process their harvest domestically. However, the Olive Press Owners Association has warned that prices could rise further in the coming weeks.

The association also criticized some middlemen accused of speculating on final prices. In response, the government urged consumers to buy olive oil only from certified producers to avoid counterfeit products.

Officials also advised families not to purchase large quantities early in the season, warning that excessive demand could lead to even higher prices. A final decision on import policy is expected in the coming days.

Earlier, Spain’s largest agricultural cooperative revised its olive oil production forecasts for the 2025/26 agricultural year down to 1.3 million metric tons due to lack of rain and high temperatures in September and October.

Tags: drought, olive oil, Jordan