Which Country Is the Largest Producer of Olive Oil in the World?

Olive oil is one of the most important edible oils globally, widely used in cooking, cosmetics, medicine and wellness products. It is a major agricultural commodity, especially in Mediterranean countries, due to its climate suitability and cultural importance.

Largest Producer of Olive Oil in the World

Spain is the largest producer of olive oil in the world. The country consistently ranks first in global olive oil production, contributing the highest share to total world output. Spain alone accounts for around 40–45% of global olive oil production, making it the undisputed leader in the olive oil industry.

Largest Producer of Olive Oil in India

In India, Rajasthan is the largest producer of olive oil. Olive cultivation in India is still limited, but Rajasthan leads due to its dry climate, which closely resembles Mediterranean conditions. Districts like Sri Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Bikaner and Jhunjhunu are the main olive-growing areas in India, supported by government-led pilot projects and international collaboration.

Olive Oil Production by Country

Spain ranks first globally, followed by countries such as Italy, Greece, Turkey, Tunisia, and Morocco. Despite strong competition, Spain maintains a large production gap, ensuring its dominance in both production and exports.

Major Olive Oil Producing Regions in the World

The Andalusia region of Spain is the largest olive oil producing region in the world. The province of Jaén within Andalusia is often called the “Olive Oil Capital of the World” due to its massive output and extensive olive groves.

Olive Oil Production in India

India is a minor producer of olive oil and largely depends on imports. However, domestic production is slowly growing due to increasing demand for healthy cooking oils and government support for alternative crops in arid regions.

Why Spain Leads Global Olive Oil Production?

Spain’s dominance is due to its favourable Mediterranean climate, vast olive plantations, mechanised harvesting, modern oil extraction technology, and centuries-old expertise in olive farming.

Economic Importance of Olive Oil

Olive oil plays a significant role in Spain’s agricultural economy. It supports millions of farmers, generates large export revenues, and sustains rural employment. Globally, olive oil trade contributes billions of dollars annually to international markets.

Health Benefits of Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It supports heart health, reduces inflammation, improves digestion and is a key component of the Mediterranean diet, which is considered one of the healthiest diets in the world.

Interesting Facts About Olive Oil

Global Leader

Spain produces more olive oil than any other country and often more than several top producers combined.

Largest Olive Grove Area

Spain has the largest area under olive cultivation in the world, covering millions of hectares.

Andalusia’s Contribution

The Andalusia region alone produces more olive oil than many entire countries.

India’s First Olive Oil Project

India’s first commercial olive oil production project was launched in Rajasthan with international technical support.

Price Influencer

Global olive oil prices are heavily influenced by Spain’s annual olive harvest output.

Ancient Crop

Olive cultivation dates back over 6,000 years and is one of the oldest known agricultural practices.

High Export Demand

Spain is also the world’s largest exporter of olive oil, supplying markets across Europe, the USA mand Asia.

Read more: Which Place Is Known as the Coconut Island of India?

Spain is the largest producer of olive oil in the world due to its ideal climate, vast olive groves, advanced farming techniques and strong export network. In India, Rajasthan leads olive oil production on a smaller scale. Keep reading for more such topics.