Iran’s exports of greenhouse-grown agricultural products increased by 12 per cent in the latest agricultural year, exceeding 770,000 tonnes as producers adopt modern technologies to improve water and energy efficiency. This is reported by
Tehran Times, a TV BRICS partner.
The exports generated approximately US$390 million in foreign currency earnings, according to Iran’s Ministry of Agriculture. The rise highlights the growing role of protected agriculture in Iran’s efforts to manage water shortages, improve productivity and strengthen agricultural exports. Modern cultivation technologies are being used to reduce water consumption, improve energy efficiency and raise the quality of products destined for overseas markets.
Bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers and greenhouse-grown aubergines account for the largest share of exports. Strawberries and other vegetables are also gradually expanding their presence in foreign markets.
Iran is targeting a substantial expansion of greenhouse production under its Seventh National Development Plan. Annual output is currently below 4 million tonnes, while the government has set a target of 10 million tonnes, leaving a gap of roughly 6 million tonnes to be closed through investment, infrastructure development and more advanced agricultural practices.
Officials say the expansion will need to be geographically targeted because water availability and energy infrastructure have become major constraints on agricultural development. New greenhouse projects are therefore expected to prioritise areas with sufficient access to both resources.
The authorities are also calling for a transition from conventional farming methods towards technology-driven agriculture. Research institutions and technology developers are being encouraged to contribute solutions capable of increasing yields.
The export figures also point to untapped potential. With just one-fifth of greenhouse production currently entering export markets, officials believe increasing the export share could generate additional foreign earnings while strengthening Iran’s position in regional agricultural trade.
Iran currently exports agricultural products to more than 80 countries, according to officials, who say stronger trade diplomacy and improvements to infrastructure will be essential to sustaining growth in the sector.