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Argentina has seen olive cultivation flourish since the late 19th century, with the introduction of olive trees by European immigrants. The country has utilized its vast spaces and favorable climate, especially in western regions like Mendoza, to develop a significant olive industry. The history of the olive tree in Argentina is a story of growth and innovation, focusing on the quality of the oil produced and sustainable cultivation techniques.
Source IOC
STATISTICS
- Overview of Argentina’s olive industry:
– Argentina is one of the major olive-producing countries in South America.
– It contributes 1% to the world’s olive oil production.
– Harvest season starts in late January in the province of Córdoba and extends until mid-May, beginning with canning’s varieties and followed by oil-producing ones.
- Global rankings:
– Argentina ranks 13th in terms of cultivation area.
– It holds the 11th position in olive oil production globally.
- Description of the cultivation’s mode:
– Traditional cultivation covers 6.8%.
– Intensive cultivation constitutes 40.3%.
– Superintensive cultivation represents 52.9%.
– Irrigated crops account for 62.3%.
- Production:
– The average olive oil production over the last 10 years has been 30,200 tons (Source IOC)
– The average table olive production over the last 10 years has been 215,800 tons (Source IOC)
- Cultivation Parameters:
– There are 1,145 plots, with an average size of 99.31 hectares each.
– Productivity per plot: 0.434 tons of olive oil and 2.71 tons of table olives.
- Industry Statistics:
– Argentina has 60 olive oil mills and 20 processors.
– The olive oil sector generates a business volume of €220.57 million.
– Provides 2,585,206 annual workdays in the olive oil sector and related industries.
- Consumption Patterns:
– Argentina consumes 0.17 liters of olive oil per capita annually.
– This constitutes 0.8% of the total consumption of animal and vegetable fats.
CONCLUSIONS
Argentina plays a significant role in the global olive industry, being a major producer in South America. Although contributing 1% to worldwide olive oil production, its prominence showcases its importance in the international market. Argentina’s 13th position in cultivation area and 11th in olive oil production globally underscores its competence in the olive sector.
The cultivation landscape in Argentina is diverse, with a mix of traditional, intensive, and superintensive methods, showcasing adaptability to various cultivation practices. A majority of crops are irrigated, emphasizing water-efficient agricultural practices.
Over the last decade, Argentina has demonstrated stability in olive oil and table olive production, averaging 30,200 tons and 215,800 tons, respectively. This consistency suggests a resilient and well-established olive industry.
The distribution of plots, averaging 99.31 hectares each, reflects a balanced and efficient cultivation system. The productivity per plot, both in olive oil and table olives, indicates a sustainable and well-managed agricultural model.
With 60 olive oil mills and 20 processors, Argentina boasts a robust olive industry infrastructure. The sector’s considerable economic contribution of €220.57 million and the generation of over 2.5 million annual workdays highlight its significance in the national economy.
Argentina’s per capita consumption of 0.17 liters of olive oil annually, forming 0.8% of the total intake of animal and vegetable fats, reflects a moderate yet consistent preference for olive oil in the country. Understanding consumption patterns is crucial for industry stakeholders to align with consumer preferences and potentially stimulate further growth.
In summary, Argentina’s olive industry stands as a resilient and competitive player on the global stage, demonstrating stability in production, efficient cultivation practices, and a substantial economic footprint. The country’s consumption patterns also suggest a steady and discerning market for olive products.
