The olive grove surpasses the vineyard in extension in Castilla-La Mancha
With more than 450,000 hectares cultivated, the area of olive groves already exceeds that of vineyards in Castilla-La Mancha. This crop, known as ‘heritage wealth’, has experienced significant growth, consolidating itself as one of the pillars of the region.
Olive oil: a regional treasure
Olive oil, nicknamed ‘liquid gold’, is considered one of the greatest heritage assets of the region. Its importance is highlighted in professional events such as NaturAceite, where its value and potential are highlighted.
Recovery and growth of the sector
The olive sector has shown signs of recovery, especially in terms of production, after facing challenges such as the impact of adverse climate events. This resurgence is reflected in the increase in oil mills and bottling plants, as well as in the number of winegrowers, demonstrating its importance both in terms of cultivated area and in human value.
Support and future perspectives
Local and regional authorities, such as the Minister of Agriculture, Water and Rural Development, Julián Martínez Lizana, and the mayor of Mora, Emilio Bravo, have highlighted the crucial role of the olive grove in the region. An improvement in production is expected, backed by the commitment of various institutions and the recognition of the quality of regional oils, which have four Protected Designations of Origin.
Perspectives and challenges
The olive sector faces challenges such as increasing production costs and the influence of global geopolitical factors. Despite this, the resilience of the sector and the importance of producers in the development of regional agriculture stand out. Furthermore, the fundamental role of the media in the dissemination and debate around the agri-food sector is recognized, highlighting the relevance of events such as NaturAceite in the promotion and discussion of the olive grove.