In a farming season marked by severe drought, the recent autumn rains have rekindled hope among olive farmers in the Boulemane region, particularly in Missour, for a revival in olive production and alleviating concerns over oil prices.
After two dry seasons, farmers relied on drip irrigation techniques to save their trees, and the recent rains provided additional support that enhances their prospects for a better harvest as the picking season approaches.
Olive cultivation in the Boulemane region spans over 15,000 hectares and is a pivotal sector in the local economy, providing seasonal employment opportunities during the harvest period. As the season nears, farmers are keenly awaiting the final prices for olives, which currently range between 11 and 12 dirhams per kilogram, with expectations of a decline due to the anticipated surplus.
The area is home to around 100 olive oil mills preparing to receive the harvest from various fields, while the relevant ministry hopes that national olive production this season will reach approximately 950,000 tons, potentially contributing to a surplus in the local market.
However, the price of a liter of olive oil remains uncertain, with forecasts suggesting it will not be lower than last season’s prices, leaving consumers in a state of anticipation about market developments.
Farmers hope that the expected surplus will help meet their financial needs and compensate for production costs, particularly the expenses associated with the intensive use of drip irrigation throughout the season.
Despite the challenging circumstances, farmers in Missour and Boulemane express optimism thanks to the autumn rains that have salvaged part of the season, raising hopes for olive oil to become accessible to everyone once again.
source : fesnews media