19 August 2026 – Croatia has imported more olive oil than it produced for the first time, according to new data from the Croatian Bureau of Statistics
Domestic olive oil production fell sharply in 2025, while imports increased significantly, with the development highlighting the growing challenges facing Croatia’s olive-growing sector.
According to figures production fell from around 63,000 hectolitres in 2024 to less than 46,000 hectolitres in 2025, a decline of around 27%
At the same time, imports increased from approximately 37,000 hectolitres in 2024 to almost 60,000 hectolitres in 2025. Imports therefore exceeded domestic production by around 31%.
The figures come as Croatian olive growers continue to deal with increasingly difficult weather conditions.
Istrian producer Ivan Ipša said prolonged drought and sustained high temperatures had put considerable pressure on olive trees. He noted that there was almost no rain for around two months, while daytime temperatures remained above 35°C for an extended period.
The impact could also be reflected in this year’s harvest, which may begin earlier than usual.
Despite the figures, Croatia’s Ministry of Agriculture said there was no reason for concern, attributing the result partly to climate change and insufficient application of agricultural measures.
The ministry also stressed the need for olive producers to work more closely together to strengthen their position on the market and improve production.
There has also been a significant increase in olive planting in Croatia in recent years. However, newly planted trees take years to reach full production, meaning the benefits of recent investment will not be felt immediately.
Croatia’s olive oil <a href="https://zagreb.today/trumps-new-tariffs-will-be-a-crack-in-the-cusma-shield-industry-groups-warn-national/” title=”Trump’s new tariffs will be ‘a crack in the CUSMA shield,’ industry groups warn – National”>industry is closely associated with the country’s Mediterranean identity, particularly in Istria and Dalmatia, where premium extra virgin olive oils have gained international recognition.
The latest figures nevertheless underline how climate conditions are beginning to affect even some of Croatia’s most established agricultural traditions.
The Croatian government has opened applications for €20 million in support measures for the sector.
Source: www.croatiaweek.com
