On April 14, 2026, the Wilaya of Khenchela hosted the official launch of a strategic project aimed at promoting local olive oil through the creation of a collective brand. The initiative is led by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in collaboration with several Algerian institutional and professional partners.
The launch was also part of the celebration of National Knowledge Day and Intellectual Property Month under the theme: “Olive oil… a treasure today and tomorrow.”
A foundational project for the olive oil sector
Held at the National School of Forestry (ENSF) in Khenchela, the event is part of a broader effort to promote local development and regional products. It brought together producers, experts, students and institutional representatives.
The aim of the project is to unite local olive oil producers under a common label, with a view to ensuring the quality, authenticity and origin of olive oil produced in the region, while enhancing its visibility in national and international markets.
An IP-based approach
The initiative relies on intellectual property (IP) tools, particularly collective trademarks, as a lever for economic development. The idea is to protect the product from imitations while highlighting local expertise and the geographical characteristics of Khenchela.
In their presentations, the Director of ENSF, the Directors General of the National Industrial Property Institute of Algeria (INAPI) and the Agency for SME Development and Innovation Promotion (ADPMEPI), and the Director of the WIPO Algeria Office, emphasized that the collective trademark serves as a “gateway to exports and quality”. It offers producers a structured framework in which to make their products more competitive.
An ecosystem of engaged partners
The project is the result of joint efforts by various stakeholders, including the WIPO Algeria Office, INAPI, ADPMEPI, ENSF, the Khenchela Chamber of Agriculture, and the Federation of Olive Oil Producers.
The aim of this synergy is not only to assist producers with certification, but also to help them to improve their production, processing and marketing techniques.
Outlook and challenges
Partners in the project aim to make Khenchela olive oil a competitive and internationally recognized product. Brand promotion through the collective trademark should help to:
- increase producers’ incomes;
- enhance the region’s economic appeal;
- promote the local agricultural heritage; and
- facilitate access to export markets.
Ultimately, the project illustrates the growing role of IP in agricultural development. By focusing on quality, origin and innovation, Khenchela hopes to establish itself as a hub for olive oil production in Algeria.
A showcase of local expertise
Alongside the official ceremony, an exhibition was organized to showcase the various types of olive oil produced in Khenchela. Visitors were introduced to a wide variety of oils, which reflect the area’s richness and the specific characteristics of its production methods.
The exhibition also allowed producers to present their products, engage with the public and experts, and raise awareness of the importance of quality and traceability. Tasting sessions offered participants an immersive experience, highlighting the unique characteristics of each variety.
Also on show were the institution’s scientific equipment, micro-enterprise projects and other business initiatives.
Recognition of talent
Two competitions were also held, for the best olive oil product and the best innovative student project, thereby lending the event a scientific and economic flavor.
Awards were presented to the most deserving participants. Three producers were selected from 33 participants for the quality of their olive oil, three students won accolades for the best innovative projects, in support of innovation and entrepreneurship.