Top 10 Olive Oil Importing Countries

1. United States

• Import Volume: Over 400,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $1.6 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: The U.S. is the largest non-European importer of olive oil, with demand driven by its health benefits and versatility.
• Key Insights: Extra virgin olive oil accounts for the majority of imports, catering to health-conscious consumers and premium culinary applications.

2. Italy

• Import Volume: Around 300,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $1.2 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Despite being a top producer, Italy imports olive oil to meet the needs of its domestic market and re-export demands.
• Key Insights: Imports are primarily blended with locally produced oils for export to other countries.

3. Spain

• Import Volume: Over 280,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $1 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Like Italy, Spain imports olive oil for blending and re-export, with a focus on maintaining its position as a global olive oil leader.
• Key Insights: Demand for high-quality oils continues to rise, driven by Spain’s thriving foodservice industry.

4. Germany

• Import Volume: Around 250,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $900 million (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Germany’s imports are driven by its large health-conscious consumer base and demand for Mediterranean diets.
• Key Insights: Organic and sustainable olive oils are particularly popular in the German market.

5. France

• Import Volume: Over 200,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $800 million (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Olive oil is a key component of French cuisine, with strong demand for high-quality extra virgin varieties.
• Key Insights: France imports a significant portion of its olive oil from Spain and Italy.

6. Japan

• Import Volume: Around 150,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $700 million (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Japan’s growing interest in healthy eating and Mediterranean diets is fueling demand for imported olive oil.
• Key Insights: Japanese consumers prefer smaller, premium-quality packaging with a focus on extra virgin olive oil.

7. United Kingdom

• Import Volume: Over 140,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $600 million (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: The UK relies heavily on imports to meet its olive oil needs, driven by Mediterranean food trends and health-conscious consumers.
• Key Insights: Post-Brexit trade shifts have opened doors for non-EU exporters to expand their market share.

8. Brazil

• Import Volume: Around 120,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $500 million (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Brazil is Latin America’s largest importer of olive oil, driven by rising disposable incomes and changing dietary preferences.
• Key Insights: Extra virgin olive oil dominates imports, with growing consumer preference for premium products.

9. China

• Import Volume: Over 100,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $400 million (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: China’s expanding middle class and awareness of olive oil’s health benefits are driving demand.
• Key Insights: Urban centers like Beijing and Shanghai lead in olive oil consumption, favoring high-quality imports.

10. Canada

• Import Volume: Around 90,000 tons annually
• Value of Imports: Approximately $350 million (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Canada’s demand for olive oil is fueled by its multicultural population and health-conscious consumers.
• Key Insights: Organic and sustainable oils are increasingly popular among Canadian buyers.

Trends in Olive Oil Imports

1. Premiumization:
   Consumers are prioritizing extra virgin olive oil, with demand for premium products growing in developed and emerging markets.
2. Health and Wellness Focus:
   Olive oil’s health benefits, including heart health and anti-inflammatory properties, are driving global demand.
3. Sustainability and Organic Growth:
   Environmentally conscious consumers are seeking certified organic and sustainably sourced olive oils.
4. E-Commerce Expansion:
   Online platforms are enabling easier access to diverse olive oil brands, particularly in urban markets.
5. Emerging Markets Growth:
   Countries like Brazil and China are rapidly increasing imports, offering new opportunities for exporters.
6. Innovation in Packaging:
   Smaller, eco-friendly, and premium-looking packaging is gaining popularity, particularly in markets like Japan.