Asia-Pacific Olive Oil Market Outlook, 2030

Historically, olive oil has been central to the Mediterranean diet, but its use in the Asia Pacific region was limited for many years due to the region’s traditional reliance on other oils, such as soybean, palm, and canola oil. However, with rising health concerns associated with high levels of saturated fats in conventional oils, olive oil has found its place in the kitchens of several Asia Pacific nations. The market’s expansion can be attributed to increased awareness about the health benefits of olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, as well as its association with lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.

Olive oil was introduced as a healthier alternative to the commonly used oils in many Asian countries, especially in countries like Japan, South Korea, China, and India. The shift from traditional oils to olive oil was gradual but noticeable as consumers became more health-conscious, particularly in urban areas. This transition was further accelerated by increased globalization, which led to greater exposure to international cuisine, where olive oil plays a fundamental role in Mediterranean and European dishes. Olive oil began to gain popularity in various segments of the food industry, from home cooking to restaurants, as consumers in these countries embraced its versatility and perceived health benefits.

In terms of demand, the Asia Pacific olive oil market has seen substantial growth, especially in countries like Japan, China, and South Korea. These countries have emerged as some of the largest consumers of olive oil in the region, with demand particularly driven by the growing middle class and an increasing number of affluent consumers who are willing to invest in premium products. Furthermore, the rise in Western-style fast food chains and globalized food trends has also contributed to the surge in demand for olive oil, which is seen as a symbol of high-quality, healthy living.

According to the research report "Asia Pacific Olive Oil Market Outlook, 2030," the Asia Pacific Olive Oil market is anticipated to grow at more than 7.61% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a preferred choice for health-conscious consumers. The market growth has been largely driven by countries like Japan, China, South Korea, and India, where there has been a shift toward healthier eating habits and a growing awareness of the advantages of the Mediterranean diet.

This shift has been facilitated by increasing exposure to international food cultures, particularly through the global spread of Western-style restaurants, food channels, and social media, where olive oil is showcased as a high-quality, healthy alternative to traditional oils. Demand is primarily fueled by the growing middle class and urban populations, who have higher disposable incomes and are more inclined to invest in premium food products. The increasing number of affluent and health-conscious consumers is a key driver, as they prioritize healthier ingredients and are willing to pay a premium for products like extra virgin olive oil.

In countries like Japan and South Korea, olive oil is increasingly incorporated into both traditional cooking and modern fusion dishes, demonstrating its versatility. The demand is not just confined to households; the hospitality and food service industries are also significant contributors to market growth, with restaurants, hotels, and cafes integrating olive oil into their menus to meet customer preferences.

Moreover, the Asia Pacific market for olive oil is seeing developments in distribution channels, with the rise of online retail platforms, supermarkets, and specialty stores making it easier for consumers to access premium olive oil products. With the increasing availability of olive oil in various formats and sizes, from extra virgin to organic variants, consumers are becoming more informed and selective in their purchasing decisions.

Market Drivers

• Health Awareness and Adoption of Western Diets: One of the main drivers for the growth of the olive oil industry in the Asia-Pacific region is the rising health awareness among consumers. Olive oil is increasingly recognized for its health benefits, such as its ability to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease, due to its high content of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. As consumers in countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea become more aware of the importance of healthy eating, they are turning to olive oil as a healthier alternative to traditional cooking oils, such as palm oil, soybean oil, and sunflower oil. This growing demand for healthier, natural food products has led to an increase in olive oil consumption across the region.
• Growth of the Premium Product Market: With rising incomes in many Asia-Pacific countries, there has been a noticeable shift towards premium and imported food products. Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), is increasingly being perceived as a luxury or high-quality product, and many consumers in urban centers are willing to pay a premium for it. This trend is particularly evident in wealthier markets such as Japan, South Korea, and Australia, where consumers are increasingly interested in premium food items with perceived health benefits. Additionally, the growing middle class in emerging economies like India and China is expanding the market for high-end imported products, including olive oil.

Market Challenges

• Price Sensitivity and Competition from Local Oils: A major challenge for the olive oil industry in the Asia-Pacific region is price sensitivity. While olive oil is growing in popularity, it remains significantly more expensive than local cooking oils, such as soybean, palm, and canola oil, which are often seen as more affordable options for everyday cooking. This price difference can limit olive oil’s appeal in price-sensitive markets, particularly in developing countries in the region. In these markets, olive oil’s premium positioning may hinder its widespread adoption, as local oils are entrenched in cooking practices and can be purchased at much lower costs.
• Limited Awareness and Understanding of Olive Oil: Although olive oil consumption is rising in the APAC region, many consumers still have limited knowledge about its uses, varieties, and health benefits. Unlike in Mediterranean countries, where olive oil is a staple of daily cuisine, many Asian consumers are unfamiliar with how to incorporate olive oil into their cooking. There is also confusion about the different grades of olive oil, such as extra virgin olive oil and virgin olive oil, leading to misconceptions about which products offer the best quality. Educating consumers on the versatility and benefits of olive oil is essential for further market expansion in the region, but this remains a significant challenge for producers and marketers.

Market Trends

• Growing Interest in Mediterranean and International Cuisines: As global food culture continues to spread, many consumers in the Asia-Pacific region are increasingly adopting Mediterranean and Western cuisines, which use olive oil as a key ingredient. This trend is particularly strong in urban centers, where consumers are more exposed to international food culture through travel, restaurants, and social media. In countries like Japan and South Korea, where health trends and the demand for diverse international food options are growing, olive oil is being integrated into new dishes, such as salads, stir-fries, and even sushi. This shift toward Mediterranean and international culinary influences is helping to boost the demand for olive oil, particularly among younger, more affluent consumers.
• Organic and Sustainable Olive Oil Products: The trend toward organic and sustainably sourced products is growing in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in more developed markets like Australia and Japan. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, they are increasingly seeking out olive oils that are produced through organic farming methods and environmentally friendly practices. Certifications such as "organic," "fair trade," and "sustainably produced" are becoming important factors in the purchasing decisions of some consumers. This trend is pushing producers to focus more on sustainable farming practices, reduce water usage, and offer products with a lower carbon footprint. Additionally, there is growing interest in locally produced olive oil, particularly in regions like Australia, where olive oil production has been increasing in response to local demand.

The significant growth of refined olive oil in the Asia-Pacific olive oil industry is primarily driven by its affordability, longer shelf life, and versatile usage in both traditional and modern cooking practices.

Refined olive oil has seen significant growth in the Asia-Pacific region due to its affordability, longer shelf life, and versatile applications in various cooking practices, which cater to the growing demand for healthier, convenient, and cost-effective cooking oils. The increasing awareness of health-conscious eating habits, particularly in urbanized areas of the Asia-Pacific, has led consumers to seek oils with better nutritional profiles, and olive oil, known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, has become a popular choice.

However, the higher price point of extra virgin olive oil has made refined olive oil a more attractive alternative for many consumers, particularly in countries where olive oil is still considered a relatively premium product. Refined olive oil is produced by processing regular olive oil to remove impurities, resulting in a milder flavor and a lighter color compared to extra virgin olive oil. This makes it highly adaptable to a variety of culinary practices, including deep frying, stir-frying, and baking, which are common cooking methods in many Asian cultures.

The neutral taste of refined olive oil allows it to blend seamlessly with the bold flavors of traditional Asian cuisines, making it a popular choice among both home cooks and professional chefs. Additionally, refined olive oil's ability to withstand higher cooking temperatures without breaking down makes it particularly suitable for stir-frying and deep-frying, which are integral to several Asia-Pacific cooking traditions. The extended shelf life of refined olive oil is another contributing factor to its rise in the region.

With many countries in Asia-Pacific lacking the same infrastructure for storing olive oil as in Mediterranean regions, the longer shelf life of refined olive oil makes it more convenient for both households and businesses, as it can be stored without spoiling for a more extended period. This is particularly important in countries with high humidity or inconsistent temperatures, where extra virgin olive oil may degrade more quickly.

Households and residential end users are leading the Asia-Pacific olive oil industry due to increasing health awareness, a growing middle class, and the rising popularity of Western-style cooking and lifestyle trends.

In recent years, households and residential consumers have emerged as the dominant force in driving the growth of the olive oil market in the Asia-Pacific region. This shift can largely be attributed to an increased awareness of the health benefits of olive oil, which has positioned it as a healthier alternative to traditional cooking oils. As the region becomes more health-conscious, with concerns over rising rates of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, consumers are gravitating toward oils that offer a better nutritional profile. Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, is rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for households aiming to improve their diet.

This change in dietary preferences is particularly noticeable in urban centers, where consumers have greater access to information and are more open to adopting global food trends. The growing middle class in the Asia-Pacific region is another significant factor driving olive oil consumption in residential households. As disposable incomes rise, more people are able to afford premium food items like olive oil, which was once considered a luxury product. Olive oil, traditionally associated with Mediterranean cuisine, is now increasingly seen as a symbol of a modern, health-conscious lifestyle, making it attractive to middle-income families who are eager to invest in their well-being.

Additionally, the rise of Western-style cooking, particularly in urban households, has contributed to the widespread adoption of olive oil. The influence of global food trends, facilitated by international exposure through travel, media, and the internet, has led to an increased interest in Western cuisines such as salads, pasta dishes, and Mediterranean-style meals.

Olive oil has become a staple in these cuisines, which has further embedded it into the everyday cooking practices of households across the Asia-Pacific. The availability of olive oil in local grocery stores and supermarkets has made it more accessible to residential consumers, who are now more likely to use it as a regular ingredient in their cooking.

The conventional source of olive oil is leading the Asia-Pacific olive oil industry due to its cost-effectiveness, widespread availability, and familiarity with traditional oil sourcing practices among consumers.

Conventional olive oil has become the dominant type in the Asia-Pacific olive oil industry primarily because of its affordability and accessibility. As the region’s olive oil market continues to grow, the majority of consumers still prefer conventional olive oil over extra virgin or other specialty olive oil types, largely due to its relatively lower price.

Olive oil in the Asia-Pacific region is often viewed as a premium product, and consumers are more likely to opt for conventional olive oil because it offers a balance between quality and cost. Extra virgin olive oil, although favored for its superior taste and nutritional benefits, can often be out of reach for many households due to its higher price point.

Conventional olive oil, being more affordable, provides a more budget-friendly alternative for consumers, particularly in emerging economies where price sensitivity is a key consideration. The widespread availability of conventional olive oil in supermarkets, local grocery stores, and even online platforms has made it more accessible to a broader range of consumers, further contributing to its leading position in the market. Retailers across the Asia-Pacific region carry a range of olive oil products, but conventional olive oil is generally the most stocked and most consumed due to its lower production costs and higher yield.

In many countries, conventional olive oil is viewed as a multipurpose product that can be used for various culinary purposes, including frying, sautéing, and baking, as well as in dressings and marinades. Its relatively neutral taste compared to extra virgin olive oil makes it more adaptable to a wide array of cooking styles, especially in traditional Asian cuisines, where the preference for neutral oils is strong. This versatility in both Western and Asian cooking methods makes conventional olive oil a preferred choice for many households, restaurants, and foodservice providers. Moreover, the traditional source of olive oil aligns with the local practices of sourcing cooking oils in many parts of Asia.

Convenience stores are significantly growing in the Asia-Pacific olive oil industry due to the increasing demand for quick, accessible shopping experiences and the rise of urbanization and busy lifestyles.

Convenience stores have become a key player in the growing olive oil market across the Asia-Pacific region, driven by a combination of consumer demand for convenience, urbanization, and increasingly hectic lifestyles. As more people in urban centers seek to make quick, spontaneous purchases of everyday essentials, the presence of olive oil in convenience stores offers a solution to the increasing need for accessible, on-the-go shopping. In the past, olive oil was mostly available through larger supermarkets and specialty stores, which required more time and effort to visit.

However, with the growing popularity of convenience stores, which are strategically located in high-traffic areas such as residential neighborhoods, office buildings, and transportation hubs, consumers now have easier access to olive oil without having to make a dedicated trip to a larger store. This shift is particularly appealing to the younger, busy working population, who prioritize convenience and speed when shopping for food and groceries. Furthermore, the rise of urbanization in the Asia-Pacific region has led to more people living in smaller apartments or homes, often with limited kitchen space.

Many consumers in urban areas prefer to shop at convenience stores for their smaller, more manageable purchases rather than buying in bulk at larger supermarkets. In this context, convenience stores are perfectly positioned to cater to this demand by offering smaller, affordable packaging of olive oil that suits the needs of single-person households or smaller families, making it easier for them to incorporate olive oil into their cooking without the need for large quantities. Additionally, with the growing health-consciousness of consumers in the region, many convenience stores are stocking healthier products like olive oil to meet this demand.

China is leading the Asia-Pacific olive oil industry due to its massive consumer base, growing health awareness, and rapid urbanization, which have spurred increased demand for healthier cooking oils.

China has emerged as a dominant force in the Asia-Pacific olive oil industry due to a combination of factors that align with the country's economic growth, shifting dietary habits, and rising health consciousness among its expanding middle class. The country’s massive consumer base plays a crucial role in its position as a market leader, with over a billion people, many of whom are increasingly becoming more interested in incorporating healthier food options into their diets.

As Chinese consumers become more aware of the risks associated with high levels of saturated fats and trans fats found in traditional cooking oils like palm oil, soybean oil, and peanut oil, there has been a noticeable shift toward healthier alternatives, including olive oil. Olive oil, known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, has gained popularity as part of this broader health-conscious trend. The rapid urbanization occurring in China has also significantly contributed to the growth of the olive oil market. As more people move into urban areas, they are exposed to Western-style diets and cooking practices, which include the use of olive oil as a key ingredient in cooking.

Urban centers like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou are increasingly seeing a rise in demand for international food products, as middle-class consumers are now able to afford products like olive oil that were once considered premium and imported goods. This urban shift has resulted in greater exposure to Western food trends, which often feature olive oil in everyday meals such as salads, pastas, and Mediterranean-style dishes. As China’s middle class continues to expand, more people are embracing Western-style cooking techniques and ingredients, making olive oil a staple in many households. Additionally, the Chinese government’s emphasis on improving public health and nutrition has contributed to a more favorable environment for the olive oil market.

Considered in this report

• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report

• Olive Oil Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
• Virgin Olive Oil
• Refined Olive Oil
• Others (Blended & Flavored Oils)

By End User

• Households/Residential
• Foodservice & HoReCa
• Cosmetics & Personal Care
• Pharmaceutical Industry
• Industrial & Others(soap and detergent manufacturing, textile and leather processing, lubricants, biodiesel production, wood polishing, and premium pet food)

By Source

• Conventional
• Organic

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
• Online Retail
• Convenience Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Others (Direct Sales & HoReCa)

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.

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