The construction of a strategic plan to tackle the problem of low prices was proposed in a meeting between the Greek minister of agriculture, Makis Vorides, and the National Interprofessional Olive Oil Association of Greece (EDOE).
The two concurred that the surplus of olive oil is responsible for the prevailing low prices, while private storage of excessive olive oil quantities was seen as an inefficient remedy for Greece.
“Everybody agrees that olive oil prices are affected by the high supply, mostly due to the huge production of Spain,” the ministry’s press release said. “Private storage is not the solution and would not be effective in the Greek market. Instead, it is necessary to apply measures to enhance the competitiveness and productivity of the olive oil sector and to enforce promotional actions and support the marketability of Greek olive oil.”
As a consequence, the ministry of agriculture and EDOE agreed to start working on a set of goals to promote the stability of the sector. The plan is expected to be reviewed in March.
Part of the plan is expected to be a modification of legislation mandating that restaurateurs serve only non-refillable, sealed bottles of olive oil to seated customers.
“The change in legislation makes it mandatory that a non-refillable bottle of branded olive oil will be present on the tables at restaurants,” Giorgos Economou, the executive director of SEVITEL, the association of Greek olive oil bottlers, said.
“Eateries currently absorb around 10,000 tons of olive oil. With only bottled olive oil on tables, we estimate that a quantity of 4,000 tons will be consumed that can potentially increase if the measure is implemented,” Economou added.
The measure of sealed, non-refillable bottles, was introduced in 2018 to prevent restaurants and taverns from serving bulk olive oil, however its adoption is spotty and largely unenforced.
Related Articles
Jan. 16, 2024
The Olive Tree and the Rise of Athens
The story of the divine competition for Athens reflects the ancient Greeks' reverence for wisdom, strategy and life's practical needs.
Jul. 29, 2024
Olive Trees on Corfu Face Threat from Wood-Eating Insects, Experts Rule Out Xylella
A lab in Athens ruled out Xylella fastidiosa as the cause of the dieback in central and northern Corfu groves.
May. 13, 2024
Native Varieties and Centenarian Trees: The Winning Formula for Olivian Groves
After a harvest full of twists and turns, the Peloponnese producer achieved award-winning quality by relying on traditional and modern practices.
Jan. 29, 2024
In Search of Chill: Cool Nights Needed for Olive Trees in Greece
After warm spells decimated their harvests, producers in Greece are hoping for cool temperatures during critical growing stages this time around.
May. 28, 2024
Greek Producers Celebrate Successful Finish to Historically Low Harvest
Farmers and millers in Greece earned 56 awards at the 2024 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition after the worst harvest in a decade.
Jul. 20, 2024
Award-Winning Producer Promotes Rhodes as An Olive Oil Destination
Greece’s fourth-largest island is a well-known tourist destination. Consistently winning quality awards is helping Natura Rodos raise its profile as an olive oil producer.
Apr. 30, 2024
Greek Court Rules Kalamon Olives May Use Kalamata Brand
The supreme court rejected an appeal by Messenia-based growers that only they could use the Kalamata branding, an appellation worth €200 million in exports.
Aug. 19, 2024
The Olive Tree and The Olympics: An Ancient Bond
The olive tree has always symbolized unity and excellence in the Olympic Games.