The Organisation reaffirms its commitment to the Italian olive sector

Last week, the International Olive Council (IOC) visited Puglia, Italy’s main olive oil producing region. On this occasion, Dr Mercedes Fernández Albaladejo, Head of the IOC Standardisation and Research Unit, took part in the 17th edition of “QOCO – A Drop of Oil on the Plate.”

This international competition, organised by the Municipality of Andria and the national association Città dell’Olio, was held in Andria from 27 February to 1 March 2026. The event brought together young chefs from around the world, invited to create dishes highlighting a single ingredient: extra virgin olive oil.

As a member of the honorary committee, Dr Fernández Albaladejo encouraged initiatives aimed at raising consumer awareness of the proper use of extra virgin olive oil and promoting a culture of quality and gastronomic excellence.

On the sidelines of the event, she also met with several producers from the Puglia region. These exchanges provided an opportunity to discuss the current situation of the Italian olive sector, its challenges — particularly in a context shaped by climatic and economic developments — as well as the opportunities to further enhance the value and sustainability of the sector. The discussions also illustrated the attention the IOC pays to the realities and concerns of producers, while continuing its commitment to the development and promotion of the olive sector at the international level.