Istria named world’s best olive oil region for ninth time

Istria has once again been recognised as the world’s leading region for extra virgin olive oil, securing the title for the ninth time in the prestigious Flos Olei 2026 guide.

Widely regarded as the global “bible” of olive oil, the guide included 68 olive growers from Istria in its latest edition, placing the Croatian region firmly among the elite producers worldwide.

The 2026 edition of Flos Olei features oils from 57 olive-growing countries across five continents, with a total of 500 top producers selected.

Istrian producers account for 13.6% of that list, underlining the region’s consistent quality and international competitiveness.

This year’s results also reflect continued improvement, with many Istrian producers achieving higher scores than in previous editions, driven by innovation, expertise and the adoption of modern production techniques.

Top honours and awards

Among the standout achievements, the Hall of Fame category, reserved for producers reaching the highest standard of excellence with a score of 100/100, once again includes Uljara Mate, owned by Aleksandra Vekić from Savudrija.

This marks the third time the producer has received this distinction, and it remains the only Croatian entry in this elite group.

In the The Best 2026 category, which recognises consistency and overall contribution rather than a single oil, OPG Rheos from Novigrad earned the title “The Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blended – Medium Fruity”, bringing another major international accolade to Istria.

The official presentation of the Flos Olei 2026 guide for Istrian producers took place on 28 April at Hotel Valamar Diamant in Poreč.

The event gathered olive growers, media representatives and leading figures from the sector, including guide editor Marco Oreggia and co-editor Laura Marinelli, alongside regional officials.

(Photo: Istra Tourist Board)

According to the guide’s authors, Croatia’s olive oil sector is experiencing strong growth, supported by favourable climate conditions, high-quality soil and increasing innovation in cultivation and production.

Over the past decade, Croatia’s average annual olive oil production has reached around 3,500 tonnes, with stable harvests in recent seasons. Domestic consumption stands at approximately 8,000 tonnes, although per capita consumption remains relatively low at 1.8 kilograms per year.

(Photo: Istra Tourist Board)

Istria’s repeated success highlights not only the region’s dedication to quality but also its growing influence on the global olive oil market. Since its first inclusion in Flos Olei in 2010, Istria has consistently ranked among the top regions worldwide.

Mediterranean countries continue to dominate olive oil production, but increasing competition is emerging from regions such as South America, South Africa and Australia.

At the same time, countries including Croatia, France and Slovenia are gaining recognition for high-quality production.

(Photo: Istra Tourist Board)

Despite the strong international standing, industry leaders emphasise the need for greater domestic awareness and promotion of Croatian olive oil as a premium product.

Istria has now been named the world’s best region for extra virgin olive oil nine times (2016–2022, 2024 and 2026), while finishing second on eight occasions.