by InTrieste
One of Italy’s most prestigious food fairs, Olio Capitale, returns to the historic port city of Trieste from March 14-16, 2025, bringing together top extra virgin olive oil producers, international buyers, and culinary experts.
Now in its 17th edition, the fair will host over 210 exhibitors from 18 Italian regions and Greece, with buyers representing 16 countries, including the United States, Japan, and Australia. Visitors can taste and purchase award-winning olive oils, meet producers, and attend expert-led discussions on health benefits and industry trends.
“This fair stands out for its international reach,” said Antonio Paoletti, president of the Venezia Giulia Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the event. “Producers come here knowing they can connect with restaurateurs, consumers, and global buyers.”
A Culinary and Cultural Experience
Olio Capitale extends beyond the convention center into 27 restaurants across Trieste and Friuli Venezia Giulia, where chefs will highlight the region’s finest olive oils in exclusive dishes. The event also features the third edition of CocktOIL, a competition among 12 bars crafting cocktails infused with extra virgin olive oil.
Among the highlights is the International Olio Capitale Competition, where 176 oils from across the Mediterranean will be judged by industry experts, top restaurateurs, and the public. The winners will be announced on March 14.
The event takes place at the Generali Convention Center in Porto Vecchio, now Porto Vivo, reinforcing Trieste’s role as a hub for food and culture. Organizers include the Municipality of Trieste, the Trieste Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the National Association of Olive Oil Cities, with support from the Italian Ministry of Agriculture.
With Italy’s olive oil production expected to reach 230,000-240,000 tons in 2024-25—led by Puglia, Sicily, and Tuscany—the event highlights the growing significance of the sector.
For food lovers, industry professionals, and travelers, Olio Capitale remains Italy’s must-visit event for discovering the future of extra virgin olive oil.
Interview: Iacopo Maestroni, GP PromoFVG; Antonio Paoletti, head of Confcommercio
