El Government of Juanma Moreno has approved the First Andalusian Strategy for the Olive Sector Horizon 2027, with a budget of more than 986 million euros. This ambitious plan has as purpose consolidate the competitiveness of the olive sector, one of the pillars of the Andalusian economy, which contributes 58,7% of the production of the regional agricultural sector and generates thousands of jobs in rural areas.
With 1,6 million hectares of olive grove, the 62% of the national surface and 15% worldwide, the sector is key for the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the autonomous community.
The olive grove, a strategic sector for economic and social development
The olive grove in Andalusia not only It leads the world production of olive oil, table olives and pomace oil, but also plays a key role in the rural population fixation and preservation of the environment. The Andalusian Olive Grove Strategy seeks to strengthen its role as an engine of economic development through 52 measures grouped into eleven thematic areas, including improving the competitiveness and sustainability of farms, digitalization, and promoting the circular economy.
Among the most relevant measures is the creation of the Olive Oil Quality Reference Centre (CRAO) in Jaén, which will allow for greater control and guarantee of the commercial quality of Andalusian oil, key product in regional exportsIn this sense, the olive sector led Andalusian exports between January and November 2024, with sales of €4.250 billion, a 43% increase compared to the previous year.
We approved the first Andalusian Olive Grove Strategy. A powerful plan with 52 measures and a budget of almost €1.000 billion to support the sector.
We deliver.#Andalusia It has the largest area of olive groves in the world and is a global leader in olive oil production. pic.twitter.com/FR3GKZnfqO
—Juanma Moreno (@JuanMa_Moreno) February 4, 2025
Modernization and sustainability: foundations for the future
The Andalusian Government's strategy also aims to promote sustainable production models through specialized advice to integrated olive production groups. Furthermore, it is planned to promote the construction of water storage ponds and modernization of irrigation systems, improving energy efficiency.
Another key aspect is the development of the circular bioeconomy, with the goal of utilizing olive byproducts and promoting innovative projects that boost the sector's sustainability. The plan also includes working with producers to leverage carbon credits, an initiative that could generate new revenue while contributing to the fight against climate change.
Innovation and digitalization to increase competitiveness
To ensure Andalusia's global leadership in the olive sector, the strategy includes a strong focus on research, development and innovation (R&D&I), as well as in digital transformation. The creation of a consolidated science-technology-business system will allow innovations to effectively reach producers and industry.
The Government will also promote the initial and continuous and technical advice, facilitating the knowledge transfer throughout the entire value chain. This commitment to training will allow farmers and companies in the sector to be better prepared to face the challenges of the global market and take advantage of new business opportunities.
Differentiated quality and opening of new markets
Boosting differentiated quality is another key focus of the strategy, with the promotion of quality seals and designations of origin that reinforce the image of Andalusian olive oil in the international market. Juanma Moreno's government thus seeks to conquer new markets and maintain the balanced value chain, guaranteeing fair prices for producers and competitiveness compared to other producing regions.
In this sense, the strategy aims to strengthen the promotion of the olive-growing sector and territories, highlighting not only the quality of their products but also their cultural and environmental importance. The Andalusian olive grove is not only a source of economic wealth, but also an element of key to the landscape and identity of the region.
Consensus and collaboration: a strategy built with the sector
The development of the Andalusian Olive Grove Strategy has had the support of active participation of economic and social agents, interprofessionals of the sector, agri-food cooperatives y producer organizationsDuring the public comment process, 254 contributions were received, of which more than 60% have been incorporated into the final document.
This collaboration reflects the Andalusian government's commitment to working hand in hand with the sector to ensure its long-term competitiveness and sustainability. In this regard, protecting the quality and authenticity of olive oil production is considered a strategic priority, as it represents a competitive advantage over other producing regions worldwide.
Impact on GDP and job creation
The olive sector generates approximately 20 million daily wages per season, representing 40% of the region's agricultural employment. In terms of revenue, olive and oil production generated €3.648 billion in 2023. This economic weight translates into a significant contribution to regional GDP, placing Andalusia as the leading producing region in the world.
Thanks to this strategy, the Government of Juanma Moreno seeks to consolidate this world leadership and ensure that the olive grove continues to be one of the most important drivers of economic growth and employment in Andalusia. With historic investment and a comprehensive approach, agriculture will continue to play a fundamental role in the development of the region, ensuring its sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.
✅We approved the 1st Andalusian Strategy for the Olive Sector.
The @AndaluciaBoard We reaffirm our commitment to the sector with this powerful and innovative plan, with almost one billion euros.
We want to guarantee the future of the olive grove and contribute to its growth. pic.twitter.com/dwcwdyfVlY
— Ramón Fernández-Pacheco M (@RamonFPM) February 4, 2025
