Iran fishery production expected to hit 206,000 tons

 

An official with Iran Fisheries Organization said the country's fish production is expected to hit 206,000 tons in two years.

“If we double the number of breeding pools in the next two years, we will reach more than 206,000 tons of fishery production, which is a significant number,” according to Head of Shrimp and Marine Aquatic Affairs of Iran Fisheries Organization (IFO) Ghobad Mokarami.

Iran's fish exports are also doing well. They rose by 3% last year to over $310 million. The weight of these exports also jumped 12% to 149,000 tons, a recent report by the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA).

Shrimp was a big seller, making up 32% of the total value at $98.5 million. Russia, the UAE and China were the top buyers, though shrimp sales to these countries did decline somewhat, it added.

Overall, fish exports make up less than 70% of Iran's total exports, with the UAE, China, Russia and Iraq being the main destinations. Iran even imports some fish products, though these imports have grown significantly, IRICA said.

The report highlights Iran's success in aquaculture, saying the country is now a model for others in the region. The UN's food and agriculture agency agrees, praising Iran's role in the industry. With exports reaching new markets and research playing a key role, Iran's fisheries appear well-positioned for the future.