Lisbon, June 2, 2026 (Lusa) - Portugal is set to host the ‘Olive Oil World Congress’ (OOWC) on 2–3 July, the largest event dedicated to the olive oil sector, which will bring together researchers, producers and companies from various countries, the government announced on Tuesday.

The event, organised by Agrifood Comunicación, will take place at the Belém Cultural Centre in Lisbon, following a first edition held in Madrid in 2024.

Quoted in a press release, the minister for agriculture and maritime affairs, José Manuel Fernandes, said that this was recognition of Portugal as “one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of olive oil, the result of years of investment, modernisation, technological innovation and a commitment to quality”.

The programme includes discussions on topics such as the future of the sector, including adaptation to climate change, digitalisation and the application of artificial intelligence.

According to government data, production for the 2025/2026 season is estimated at around 179,000 tonnes, similar to the previous year.

"The olive oil sector is now a strategic asset for Portugal. In addition to its economic and export significance, it plays a fundamental role in the cohesion of rural areas, environmental sustainability and the competitiveness of the national agri-food sector.

In an increasingly demanding international context, it is essential to continue investing in innovation, knowledge and the creation of conditions that enable the sector to maintain its trajectory of growth and international standing," added José Manuel Fernandes.

PE/ADB // ADB.

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