by Maximiliano Crocamo
Interview: Antonio Paoletti, president of the Chamber of Commerce Venezia Giulia; Serena Tonel, Trieste Deputy Mayor and Councilor for Economic Development, Theaters, and Major Events
Olio Capitale 2026 is returning to Trieste from 13 to 15 March at the Generali Convention Center. The 18th edition of the exhibition, dedicated to extra virgin olive oil, will host 230 exhibitors from 14 Italian regions and Croatia, along with buyers from 13 countries.
The Chamber of Commerce Venezia Giulia, the event’s organizer, stated that the fair will focus on quality production and generational renewal in the olive oil sector. The Municipality of Trieste co-organizes the event, with partners including the National Association of Olive Oil Cities and Isnart.
Antonio Paoletti, President of the Chamber of Commerce Venezia Giulia, said that the 2026 edition will highlight youth participation through the initiative “Olio Capitale Giovani,” showcasing experiences in production, technology, and marketing.
The program includes more than 20 talks in the “Città dell’Olio” area, featuring representatives from Basilicata, Lazio, Puglia, and Sardinia. Twenty-five restaurants in Trieste will participate in a parallel initiative from 7 to 15 March, offering dishes prepared with selected extra virgin olive oils. Visitors will also be able to purchase oils tasted at the fair.
An analysis of the 2025–2026 olive oil campaign will be presented as well. Estimates indicate Italian production between 270,000 and 290,000 tonnes, with regional variations. International projections reported by the organizers estimate Spain’s production at between 1.3 and 1.35 million tonnes, and Tunisia’s at between 450,000 and 500,000 tonnes.
The inaugural conference is scheduled for 13 March at 11:00 a.m. Further details are available from the Chamber of Commerce Venezia Giulia.
