60% of Iran’s Food Needs Met Domestically

TEHRAN (Iran News) According to official statistics, Nouri highlighted that agriculture is the only sector in Iran’s Seventh Development Plan to have reached its expected growth target of 5.5 percent. The sector moved from a negative growth rate of –2.4 percent last year to +3.2 percent this year, representing a 5.6 percent increase — slightly above the program’s target.

The minister noted that in the past year, agriculture recorded growth across various sub-sectors: medicinal plants (23%), cage aquaculture (12%), caviar production (27%), tropical fruits (54%), horticultural crops, poultry (1%), red meat (2%), eggs (2%), and milk (5%).

Nouri stressed that agriculture is the first non-oil sector to achieve targeted economic growth. He reported a 32 percent rise in the value of agricultural exports, alongside a 6 percent decline in imports of agricultural goods. As a result, the sector’s trade deficit narrowed from –$11 billion to –$8 billion, reflecting a $3 billion positive shift.

He added that agriculture’s share of the national economy has grown from 6 percent to 7 percent, underlining its importance despite existing resource limitations.

Discussing future priorities, Nouri said Iran aims to achieve 90 percent self-sufficiency in essential goods and 40 percent in oilseeds by the end of the Seventh Development Plan. Currently, a significant share of tropical fruits, 20 percent of red meat, and 25–30 percent of sugar are imported.

“By the end of the 14th government, we plan to achieve self-sufficiency in sugar, red meat, and tropical fruits — particularly bananas,” he stated, adding that meeting these goals requires adequate financial resources.

He noted that agricultural budget allocations have significantly increased this year compared to last year, which could support the achievement of these targets.

On the issue of water resources and crop planning, Nouri said that before the next farming season, a scientifically based cropping pattern tailored to regional conditions will be announced. This model, designed according to available water resources and domestic as well as export needs, aims to prevent shortages, price hikes, and crop waste.

He urged farmers to comply with the new guidelines, particularly reducing the cultivation of water-intensive crops in water-stressed regions. A dedicated online platform has been launched for farmers and experts to raise concerns or suggest modifications.

Nouri confirmed that the guaranteed purchase price of wheat for the new farming year will be announced by the end of September, allowing farmers to plan accordingly. Committees are currently reviewing expert opinions and farmer feedback to determine a fair price.

Reassuring the public, Nouri emphasized that securing essential goods and ensuring food security remain top government priorities. He explained that basic commodities are procured 6–12 months in advance, ensuring stable supplies despite challenges.

“Thanks to coordinated efforts, essential goods have been adequately stocked, and people can access their food needs without concern,” he said, recalling that even during the hardships of the 12-day war period, the government ensured nationwide food distribution.

“With the current management capacity, there is no cause for concern regarding the supply of essential goods,” he concluded.