Spain’s next olive harvest could be down 50 percent due to the current drought, agricultural union ASAJA warned today.
The agricultural sectors in general in both Spain and Portugal have been crippled by one of the driest winters in 70 years, leading the union to call today (March 21) for urgent governemnt aid.
European Commissioner for Agriculture Dacian Cioloş has already said he would be open to expediting payment of EU agricultural aid to the countries in light of the situation’s severity.
Though it rained and snowed today in various parts of the Iberian peninsula, damage has already been done as far as next year’s olive harvest.
Spain’s olive oil sector was already on its knees anyway but won’t really feel the drought’s impact until next season, “when the olive sector could lose more than half of its crop, ” according to an ASAJA press release. “In hard numbers that could mean Jaén is down more than €400 million ($529 million) ‚” it said.
The silver lining is that the olive oil production slump could lead to an upturn in the current rock-bottom farmgate prices.
This season’s harvest is another bumper one in Spain. Drawing on estimates in a report by olive oil giant Deoleo, Europa Press reports that Spanish olive oil production for 2011 – 2012 will be up 14 percent on last year to 1.59 million tons. The country started the season with stocks of 473,700 tons.
Related Articles
Jan. 3, 2024
Tuscany Announces Funds to Prevent Olive Grove Abandonment
The measures are meant to encourage growers to take care of abandoned olive trees in difficult terrains and maintain them to prevent wildfire and pest development
Nov. 15, 2023
A Hobby Grower’s Guide to the Olive Harvest
Harvesting olives at the right moment of maturity and bringing them to the mill within 24 hours are a few tips hobby growers can follow to yield extra virgin olive oil.
May. 28, 2024
Researchers Transform Olive Grove Waste Into Bioplastic
Turning olive tree leaves and branches into biopolymers would provide environmental, economic and social benefits to olive farmers.
May. 29, 2024
Azerbaijan Joins Olive Council
Investors believe joining the International Olive Council will improve quality and standards in Azerbaijan while facilitating access to international markets.
May. 23, 2024
Historic Flooding in Southern Brazil Spares Groves, Mills
Producers are struggling in the aftermath of the worst flooding in Rio Grande do Sul’s history. While mills and groves were largely spared, sales have been severely impacted.
May. 10, 2024
Andalusian Officials Withdraw Sea of Olives Candidacy for UNESCO Recognition
The move came after 8,500 olive growers signed a petition protesting the candidacy. However, some are hopeful the decision will be overturned.
Dec. 11, 2023
Organic Farm in Jaén Blazes a Trail for Selling Carbon Credits
O.Live generates about 4.5 carbon credits per hectare from its 1,000 hectares of organic groves, establishing a model for producers to increase revenue.
Feb. 7, 2024
Acesur CEO Highlights Andalusia's Key Role in Sector's Future
Gonzalo Guillén believes production capacity is the limiting factor to increase olive oil consumption and Andalusia remains best positioned to expand the market.