Recognition of Excellence in Olive Oil Production
On April 27, 2026, the city of Meknes hosted the award ceremony for the 16th National Competition for Quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil, showcasing the remarkable achievements of the agricultural season 2025/2026. In this prestigious event, twelve varieties of olive oil from three regions of Morocco were honored, highlighting the nation's dedication to quality and excellence in olive oil production. The ceremony was presided over by Ahmed Bouari, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, alongside various officials, including the governor of Meknes and the president of the International Agricultural Fair in Morocco, along with several industry professionals.
Categories and Awards Based on Flavor Profiles
The awarded oils were classified into four main categories based on their fruity flavor profiles, with three prizes (first, second, and third) awarded in each category according to precise quality standards. In the category of strong green fruity flavor, the first prize was awarded to **OLIVEINVEST** from the Fes-Meknes region, while **CHANIA** secured the second prize, and **OLEA CAPITAL** took home the third prize, all from the same region. For the moderate green fruity flavor category, the top award went to **Société D’EXPLOITATION DE L’OLIVE** from Marrakesh-Safi, followed by **OLIVE OIL CARTEL** in second place, and **Ben Mlouka Mill** in third. In the light green fruity flavor category, **Ibrahim Zniber Mill** (Fes-Meknes) clinched the first prize, with the economic interest group Oued Zat (Marrakesh-Safi) receiving the second prize, and **STEPHANE LAURENT** coming in third. Lastly, in the mature flavor category, the economic interest group **Zit Ait Aitab** (Beni Mellal-Khenifra) won first prize, followed by **Olives Marrakesh** in second place, and **OLICO SA** in third.
In a press statement, Tawfiq Al-Ashabi, the Director of Production Chains Development at the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized that this event reflects the significant advancements in the quality of Moroccan olive oil, both in terms of production and competitiveness. He noted that various producer categories demonstrated a clear evolution in quality, showcasing a strong commitment to enhancing the national product, and highlighted that the ministry continues to support effective partnerships with professionals in the sector.
The competition aligns with the "Green Generation" strategy, which places special emphasis on improving the quality of agricultural products, particularly olive oil, in collaboration with industry stakeholders. Organized according to the standards set by the International Olive Council, the competition welcomed producers from different regions of the country, with 77 candidates participating this year from five regions.
This ceremony is also part of the 18th edition of the International Agricultural Fair in Morocco, which is held under the auspices of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and runs until April 28. The event is expected to feature over 1,500 exhibitors, 500 cooperatives, 200 livestock breeders, and 45 foreign delegations, with an anticipated attendance of more than 1.1 million visitors. The fair serves as a key platform for enhancing collaboration and exchanging experiences in the agricultural sector while spotlighting practical solutions to national and international challenges.
As reported by mcg24.com.
