Ayvalık, Turkey capital of olive oil production ask denomination of origin

Olive oil is produced in different parts of Turkey. The locals of Ayvalık take pride in the region’s olive oil. For them Ayvalık is the capital of oil production

by S. C.

The region has the advantage of the climate and soil," says an associate professor, Ertan Anlı, from Ankara University’s department of food engineering. The reputation it enjoys domestically is, however, virtually non existent overseas. Although Turkey ranks high among the biggest producers of olive oil in the world, Turkish olive oil is practically unknown to the international consumer.

Aware of this handicap, local oil producers undertook an initiative that will strengthen the process of labeling their own brands and provide better access to international markets. Under the leadership of Ayvalık Chamber of Commerce, the local producers have applied to acquire the geographical indication; a sign assuring consumers that produce comes from.

"The implementation for the acquisition of geographical indication will increase the quality of the production," says Rahmi Gençer, the head of Ayvalık Trade Chamber. "16 firms have acquired the indication."

"The consumers will know where the olive oil comes from and can remain fully confident of its quality," Gençer adds.