Iran Among Top Five in Heavy Livestock Farming

TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking during a meeting with agricultural stakeholders at the Science and Technology Park in Isfahan, Minister Nouri opened his remarks by condemning recent attacks by the Israeli regime and praising the Iranian Armed Forces for neutralizing foreign threats under the leadership of the Supreme Leader. He stressed that one of the primary targets of enemy aggression in recent hybrid warfare was Iran’s food security. However, coordinated efforts by government agencies and public cooperation helped mitigate potential damage.

Minister Nouri highlighted the government’s successful handling of the food supply chain during the recent 12-day crisis, which involved the displacement of millions and a surge in domestic travel. He noted that, despite these challenges, the country did not experience shortages in essential goods or long queues for basic foodstuffs—an outcome that adversaries had aimed to trigger.

“We owe a great deal to the governors, agricultural producers, farmers, livestock and poultry breeders who worked tirelessly to ensure stability,” said Nouri. He also credited the Judiciary, the Government Sanctions Organization (Taazirat), and the Parliament for their swift cooperation in resolving emerging issues during the period.

“This was a shining example of national unity and integrated management under the leadership of the Islamic Revolution,” the Minister stated. He expressed hope that this spirit of cooperation would be sustained to address other pressing challenges across the country.

Nouri reiterated Iran’s advancement in heavy livestock farming, stating that dairy from Iranian cattle is now exported and used by top global companies. He added that plans are underway to improve the quality of light livestock as well, aiming to reduce reliance on imported meat.

He acknowledged that despite enemy efforts to destabilize Iran’s food security, the nation’s intelligent management and public collaboration have successfully neutralized these threats. “This is a vital step toward national self-sufficiency and long-term security,” he said.

Currently, Iran imports about 20% of its meat supply, which the Minister described as a significant burden on local producers, government logistics, and national resources. He also addressed the impact of drought conditions on wheat production, saying that this year the country will need to import an additional 1 to 2 million tons of wheat—a challenge that comes with its own logistical and supply chain complexities.

Referencing Iran’s Constitution and the views of both Ayatollah Khomeini and the current Supreme Leader, Nouri stated that agricultural self-sufficiency is not just an economic necessity but a national obligation. “Even U.S. national security advisors admit that countries lacking food security have no voice on the global stage,” he said.

He affirmed that Iran’s food security strategy is non-negotiable, and declared the government’s intention to transform Iran into the region’s food production hub.

Turning to the issue of water scarcity in Isfahan, the Minister advocated for a knowledge-based approach to modern agriculture. He pointed to advanced greenhouse technology as a successful example, stating that such projects can yield returns within three years.

He encouraged investors to trust in the potential of agriculture, particularly in the tech sector. “Today, knowledge-based agriculture is profitable,” he said, urging scientists, innovators, and progressive farmers in Isfahan to develop solutions for more efficient water use.

Responding to rumors that food imports might be more cost-effective than domestic production, Nouri dismissed such claims. “The world is facing food shortages, and the war in Ukraine proved that we cannot rely on global markets. We must increase productivity and reduce water consumption to support our own agriculture,” he said.”Heavy Livestock”

Earlier, Minister Nouri arrived in Isfahan with his delegation, where they were welcomed by the Isfahan Governor, local parliamentary representatives, and members of the province’s Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture Directorate.

The purpose of the visit includes inspecting a major dairy and meat complex, visiting several agricultural tech firms in the Isfahan Science and Research Town, and touring companies specializing in big data and smart farming under the Middle East AgriTech umbrella.

The Minister will also hold sessions with local farmers, livestock producers, and greenhouse operators, underscoring the importance of regional collaboration in advancing Iran’s national food security agenda.