According to the country’s largest industry association, the decline is attributed to extreme heat and rainfall shortages over the past four months.

"During the crucial months for olive oil production, we found ourselves facing a difficult scenario, with virtually no precipitation," says Susana Sassetti, executive director of the Portuguese Association of Olive Growers and Mills (Olivum).

"This year, compared to the previous season, in many areas, the olive groves were unable to maintain normal fruit development. This scenario creates a climate of concern in the sector, which is facing a season marked by great variability between regions and varieties, but with a common trend of reduced productivity," assures the leader of Olivum.

The association explains that "in several areas of Portugal, the drought and high temperatures during ripening caused dehydration of the fruit, affecting its productivity," with Susana Sassetti arguing that "even in irrigated olive groves, more water is needed, and its lack is having a clear impact on the drop in production."