Agricultural Exports Witness 35% Growth in Nine Months

TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking at the National Assembly of the Supreme Council of Provinces on Thursday, Nouri emphasized the significant role of the people in Iran’s Islamic Revolution, highlighting that the country’s constitution remains one of the most progressive globally. Despite its potential, he noted that Iran has yet to fully utilize the depth of its constitutional capacities.

Nouri revealed that various agricultural projects amounting to over 250 trillion rials, creating 114,000 job opportunities, will be inaugurated during this year’s anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. He acknowledged the improvements made since the revolution, particularly in expanding services to underprivileged rural areas. However, he stressed the need for further efforts to enhance the quality of life for the people.

Highlighting his ministry’s achievements, Nouri stated that in the last nine months, agricultural exports exceeded the 35% growth mark. He recalled a time when agricultural products were wasted due to a lack of proper planning. Now, with better management, these products are exported, contributing to the country’s foreign exchange earnings.

Discussing specific exports, he mentioned that Iran’s kiwi, previously under sanctions, has now successfully entered international markets. However, he acknowledged that this led to a price hike in the domestic market, necessitating a review of export policies to ensure affordability for local consumers.

Nouri also addressed concerns over self-imposed restrictions on certain agricultural products, such as pistachios, stating that despite initial fears, pistachio exports have more than doubled. “These successes are the result of strategic planning and did not happen by chance,” he added.

The minister emphasized that Iran has significantly reduced its imports of essential commodities like tea and rice. He defended recent pricing policies, including setting higher prices for high-quality rice and raw silk, arguing that these measures support local farmers. He further explained that importers are now required to purchase domestic products before receiving import quotas, ensuring fair market competition and protecting local industries.

Nouri reassured that outstanding payments to farmers for wheat, rapeseed, and soybeans from the past three years have been settled. He also highlighted the establishment of a stable pricing system for saffron through the commodities exchange, ensuring that farmers receive fair prices for their produce.

Addressing food security concerns, he noted that despite fluctuations in international markets and currency exchange rates, the government has successfully stabilized domestic prices. For instance, red meat prices have remained within a ±1.4% range, while chicken prices have fluctuated by only ±3% over the past year, ensuring market stability.

Nouri condemned unfair pricing practices, particularly in the retail sector. He cited examples where fruits like apples and oranges were purchased at wholesale markets for 36,000–30,000 rials per kilogram but were later sold at retail stores for nearly double the price. He called for stricter oversight, stating that it is unfair for farmers, who work tirelessly for a year, to earn only a 30% profit while retailers demand a 120% markup.

Regarding concerns over high rice prices, he dismissed rumors of 200,000 rial per kilogram rice as misinformation. Investigations revealed that some traders attempted to manipulate prices in anticipation of increased demand ahead of the New Year. However, he assured that there was no official confirmation of such high prices in Tehran’s major markets.

Nouri warned that while fair trade practices are encouraged, the government will take firm action against those who attempt to manipulate food prices for personal gain. He cited the recent potato price surge as an example, attributing it to middlemen seeking higher profits. While the government has the authority to intervene, outright bans on exports are not permitted by law. Instead, temporary control measures were applied to stabilize the market.

He acknowledged supply issues with butter and potatoes earlier this year, but assured that coordinated efforts with industry stakeholders helped restore market balance. “We must ensure that neither farmers nor consumers are exploited,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, the minister emphasized that the Agriculture Ministry is committed to supporting local producers while maintaining food affordability for the public. He vowed to crack down on any market disruptions that threaten economic stability and the livelihoods of Iranian farmers.