Crete's Olive Fly Control Program Delayed, Threatening 2026 Harvest

Wednesday, 10 June 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Crete's annual olive fruit fly control program, known as dakoktonía, is facing serious delays this season, raising concerns among local producers about the quality and quantity of the 2026 olive oil harvest. The program, which involves spraying olive groves across the island to protect crops from the destructive Bactrocera oleae fly, has not yet been confirmed or funded, leaving key procedures in limbo. Cretan olive oil is one of the island's most celebrated products, and a poor harvest would affect local markets, specialty shops, and farm tours throughout the autumn and winter months. Tourists visiting olive groves, agritourism estates, or olive oil tastings this season may encounter reduced availability or higher prices for local extra virgin olive oil. No immediate disruption to tourism activities is expected, but visitors interested in the olive harvest experience (typically October to December) should check with local producers before booking.