Olive Oil Trade & Exports 2026

The global olive oil trade has undergone significant structural changes over the past decade, with new import markets emerging in Asia-Pacific and the Americas while traditional Mediterranean consumption patterns evolve.

Top Exporting Countries

Spain dominates global olive oil exports, accounting for approximately 55–60% of world trade volumes. Much of this is bulk EVOO destined for bottling and rebranding in Italy, or direct export to the US, Brazil, and Asian markets.

Italy, despite being a net importer of bulk oil for blending, exports the highest-value bottled olive oil in the world, with its branded EVOO commanding significant premiums in premium retail channels.

Tunisia is the most important bulk exporter after Spain, supplying large volumes to EU bottlers.

Portugal has been steadily growing its export volumes, with the Alentejo region in particular developing direct relationships with buyers in Brazil, France, and the UK.

Key Import Markets

United States: The world's largest import market by value. US olive oil imports have grown at approximately 4% annually over the past decade, driven by health-conscious consumers and the growth of Mediterranean-style dining.

Brazil: The largest market in Latin America, with strong Portuguese and Italian diaspora connections driving consumption.

Germany, UK, France: The core Northern European markets, increasingly sophisticated in EVOO quality preferences.

China: A fast-growing market still at an early stage of olive oil adoption, with significant upside potential.

Japan: A mature, premium-focused market with strong preference for high-quality Italian and Spanish EVOO.

Trade Dynamics in 2026

Elevated prices over 2023–2025 caused some demand destruction in price-sensitive markets and accelerated the trade-down to standard EVOO from premium categories. However, the fundamental growth trend in global olive oil demand remains intact.