The Gemlik Olive has deep roots in Anatolian olive cultivation history and is particularly famous for producing high-quality black table olives. Olive cultivation has been a vital part of Gemlik's economy for centuries, and by 1857, almost all members of the newly established Gemlik Chamber of Industry and Commerce were already dedicated to olive production.
In 1985, the FAO identified Gemlik olives as producing the highest-quality black table olives in Turkey. The unique climate of the region, coupled with the extensive experience of local farmers, contributes to this superior quality. Olive production is central to Gemlik’s industry, where olives, olive oil, and related products like soap are crucial to the economy. Today, Gemlik remains one of Turkey’s premier regions for table olives, with 80% of the population involved in olive-related trade.