Iran exported 210,000 tons of aquatic products and fisheries products worth $650 million in the Iranian calendar year 1402 (March 21, 2023 - March 20, 2024), marking a substantial increase compared to the previous administration, according to an official.

Abbas Mokhtari, Director General of the Office of Processing Quality Improvement and Aquatic Product Market Development, emphasized the importance of market access in driving fisheries growth.

 

“Under the 13th administration, the number of specialized aquatic product markets in the country increased by 7% from 210 in 2020 to 225 in 2023. Additionally, the number of online aquatic product markets witnessed a remarkable 146% growth, surging from 13 in 2020 to 32 in 2023,” he said.

 

Mokhtari further highlighted the expansion of direct-to-consumer fish sales channels. The number of direct-sale and live fish centers increased by 29% from 156 in 2020 to 202 in 2023.

 

The official said that the fisheries sector has experienced significant value chain development under the current administration. “The number of value chains has grown by 500%, from just one in 2020 to six in 2023. This expansion reflects the sector's commitment to adding value and meeting diverse consumer demands.”

 

The variety of processed seafood products has also increased by 11%, from 18 products in 2020 to 20 in 2023, Mokhtari said.