Lisbon, global epicenter of olive oil: the OOWC debates sustainability and international demand

World Olive Oil Congress

The Olive Oil World Congress (OOWC) kicks off in Lisbon with over 300 leaders from 50 countries to analyze the future of the olive oil sector. Sustainability, climate change, and growing global demand are at the heart of the agenda for the world's leading olive oil forum.

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El Olive Oil World Congress (OOWC) has started in Lisboabringing together more than 300 institutional and business representatives from 50 countries. Organized in the Centro Cultural de BelémThe event addresses the challenges of climate change and growing global demand that define the future of the international olive oil business.

The Portuguese capital thus becomes the main forum for debate for a strategic sector facing the dual challenge of satisfying an expanding market and the imperative need to adopt more sustainable production models. The inauguration featured a prominent institutional presence, underscoring the geopolitical dimension of olive oil, with the participation of ministers from Portugal, Malta, Palestina y Pakistán.

An opportunity for innovation and resilience in the sector

During the opening act, José Manuel Fernandes, Minister of Agriculture and Maritime Affairs of PortugalHe highlighted the honor it is for his country to host the congress, stating that "this event reflects the growing importance of our country as one of the world's leading producers and exporters of olive oil." Fernandes He highlighted the event as a "unique opportunity to bring together scientists, producers and policymakers to address the major challenges facing the sector, from climate change to market resilience."

For its part, Jaime Lillo, executive director of Consejo Oleícola Internacional (COI)He highlighted the importance of the confluence of the congress with the meeting of the Advisory Committee and the plenary session of the COI"This is a unique opportunity for dialogue and for the entire olive oil community to come together," he declared. Lillo, who added that it is "an exceptional space to share ideas and seek solutions to the main challenges of the sector, many of which are included in the Declaración de Córdoba adopted last year."

Food as a global challenge and solution

The opening conference, given by doctor Fabrice DeClerck, scientist of the Commission EAT-LancetHe offered a stark diagnosis of the global food system. "The current food system already causes 15 million premature deaths a year and is the main culprit behind exceeding planetary boundaries, but that same system is also our greatest opportunity to reverse course," he warned. DeClerck He positioned olive oil as the oil model for the global dietary transition, based on the "Planetary Healthy Reference Diet".

The researcher highlighted its richness in monounsaturated fatty acids and its cultural value as a catalyst for changing habits. "Olive oil is not just a nutrient; it's a public health policy tool and a bridge to healthier eating patterns," he concluded. He also emphasized the advantages of olive groves as a perennial crop, key for carbon sequestration, erosion reduction, and biodiversity preservation, positioning them as a strategic ally in the fight against climate change.

The Spanish delegation has been led by Julián Martínez Lizán, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Rural Development of Castilla-La Manchain defense of the regional guarantee brand "Campo y Alma". The congress has the support of entities such as the CIHEAM Zaragoza, the Fundación Dieta Mediterránea, the Junta de Andalucía and Generalitat de Catalunya.

Main Entities and Spokespeople at OOWC 2026

Entity	Key Spokesperson	Main Role / Message
Gobierno de Portugal	José Manuel Fernandes	Promotion of Portugal as a key producer and exporter; fostering innovation and resilience.
Consejo Oleícola Internacional (COI)	Jaime Lillo	Facilitating global dialogue and the search for solutions to the challenges of the sector.
Commission EAT-Lancet	Dr. Fabrice DeClerck	To position olive oil as a model for a healthy and sustainable dietary transition worldwide.
Junta de Castilla-La Mancha	Julián Martínez Lizán	Representation of Spanish producers and promotion of guarantee brands such as "Campo y Alma".

Key points and frequently asked questions about the Olive Oil World Congress 2026

How does this congress affect Spanish olive oil exporters?

El OOWC It is a strategic forum for Spanish exporters, offering direct access to the latest trends in sustainable production, technological innovations, and emerging demands in international markets. It allows for high-level networking with buyers, distributors, and policymakers from over fifty countries, facilitating the opening of new business channels and the strengthening of existing ones.

What business consequences does focusing on sustainability have for the sector?

The emphasis on sustainability and regenerative practices implies a necessary adaptation for companies in the sector. Those that incorporate practices such as efficient irrigation management, regenerative agriculture, or the bioeconomy will not only respond to consumer demands and regulations (ESG), but will also be able to access new "green" financing options and improve their brand positioning in premium markets.

Why is olive oil considered a "model oil" globally?

It is considered a "model oil" for three reasons. First, for its proven benefits to cardiometabolic health. Second, for the agronomic value of the olive grove as an ecosystem that sequesters carbon and protects biodiversity. And third, for its cultural role as a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, making it an effective tool for driving a global transition towards healthier and more sustainable food systems.