Development Program for the Olive Oil Sector

One of the René Moawad Foundation's objectives is to aid in the development of the olive oil sector throughout Lebanon. RMF has decided to do so mainly through the provision of technical assistance for the improvement of the quality of olive oil and its commercialization on the local and international markets.

Olive growers involved in this project benefit from the technical assistance of our agricultural engineers who guide them through each stage, beginning with the maintenance of trees and groves and ending with the harvesting and storage of olives. In each stage, environmentally friendly methods are encouraged and followed.

The project also helps with the installation of modern mills and bottling lines. Commercialization campaigns are launched, which include tasting experts from France and Italy, promotional dinners, and press releases. In addition, press trips to the mills are organized for the promotion of traditional Lebanese products in foreign markets and the development of agro-tourism.

Within this scope, since 2002, RMF has been working with an olive oil cooperative in Batroun on a pilot project funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The Enhancement of the Olive Oil Sector in Lebanon project, within the CEDARSplus program, is working with agricultural cooperatives, farmers and traders to promote production and marketing of olive oil to meet the increasing demands of international markets.