Spain’s Olive Oil Giant Eyes U.S. Expansion Amid Tariff Uncertainty

Spain’s top olive oil producers are strategizing around escalating U.S. tariffs, with Dcoop—the co-owner of America’s leading olive oil brand Pompeian—considering expanded operations in the United States. The move comes as Spanish exporters race to ship more olive oil before a potential 25% tariff takes effect, replacing the current 10% duty imposed by the Trump administration.

Spain accounts for roughly 40% of global olive oil production and exports about 180,000 metric tons annually to the U.S. Dcoop CEO Antonio Luque revealed the company may increase its olive groves in the U.S., where it already operates two Pompeian bottling plants. In 2024, Dcoop recorded €240 million ($273 million) in sales from the U.S. market. Luque stressed that while the unpredictability of American trade policy poses challenges, a 10% tariff is unlikely to deter long-term plans for growth in the U.S.

The Spanish Olive Oil Exporters Association (Asoliva) predicts a supply surge following the end of a prolonged drought, with falling prices potentially offsetting tariff-related costs. Meanwhile, other producers like Nortoliva, which exports 10% of its output to the U.S., are rushing to fulfill new orders before the tariff hike takes effect. According to Nortoliva’s general director Jordi Guiu, American clients are fast-tracking purchases to avoid higher duties.

With Washington’s trade war intensifying and a 90-day pause before steeper tariffs begin, Spanish olive oil companies are adapting swiftly to maintain market share and minimize financial impacts. For many, shifting production or expanding abroad—particularly in the U.S.—is becoming a key survival strategy amid ongoing tariff pressures.