Tunisia’s olive oil sector picked up two pieces of recognition in 2026: a national quality competition with a record field of winners, and a continental event hosted on Tunisian soil for the first time.
36 national winners
The National Oil Office (ONH) ran its National Competition for the Best Extra Virgin Olive Oils, awarding 36 exceptional oils in 2026. Industry coverage noted the year stood out for what it called unprecedented professionalization in extraction and early harvesting among entrants — a sign of tightening quality standards across Tunisian mills, not just at the top end.
Hosting the Afro-Asian competition
Separately, Tunisia hosted the Afro-Asian International Olive Oil Competition (AAIOOC) from March 23 to 26, 2026, organized by the Swedish group Global International Olive Oil Competitions (GIOOC). Hosting the event put Tunisian producers, mills, and tasting panels directly in front of an international field of entrants and judges.
FAQ
Why do national competitions matter for buyers abroad? They’re an independent quality signal — a mill that places well in the ONH’s national competition has typically demonstrated more consistent extraction and handling, which matters for buyers sourcing at scale.
Is this the same competition as Tunisia’s NYIOOC results? No — NYIOOC (New York) is a separate international competition. The ONH’s National Competition and the AAIOOC are Tunisia’s own domestic and regionally-hosted events.