The SA Olive Association held an annual general meeting on the 29th Of January, at the beautiful Rhebokskloof Estate. The meeting was chaired by Nick Wilkinson of Rio Largo, the current Chairman of the SA Olive Association.
Jean-Louis Barjol, executive director of the International Olive Council, gave the first presentation. He shared interesting statistics regarding international olive oil production and trends. Giving some valuable perspective on South Africa’s potential on a global scale. He revealed the benefits of being members of the IOC and encourages SA Olive to consider joining the organisation.
Ernst Janovsky, head of ABSA Agribusiness, gave a presentation on the agribusiness environment. He looked at some of the risks and opportunities in the sector, providing some relevant and useful strategic information to the olive farmers present.
Linda Costa, of Olives in Fact, gave a presentation on the manifold health benefits of olive oil. As the disciplines of science and medicine develop, more and more is revealed about this incredible substance. Linda also took some time to dispel the myth that we shouldn’t cook with olive oil. Read more about that in our article here.
The last speaker was Professor Virgilio Galeca, who has been studying a local pest called the Olive Seed Wasp. There is little known about this pervasive pest and the farmers were interested to learn more about this insect and its impact on their olives.
Jean-Louis Barjol, executive director of the International Olive Council
The final item on the agenda was the AGM, which included reports on various things affecting the industry. Reports on countervailing duty, SABS standards and other such items revealed that, although progress has been made, there is still some way to go before they will be in place.
It was agreed to pursue observer status at the IOC as a first step to possibly becoming a member.
SA Olive has also decided to employ someone full time to ensure the association is run properly and achieves its goals.
The meeting was closed and all attendees enjoyed some interaction around the lunch table.
- London International Olive oil Competitions 2018 - December 15, 2017
- 3 Chocolate & Olive Oil Recipes For Heart Health - December 8, 2017
- 10 Awesome Local Olive Oil Packaging Designs - November 24, 2017