Iraqi appetite fueled Iran agricultural export boom

Iranian farmers and food producers enjoyed a bumper year in
2023, with exports of agricultural and food products surging 22% to $4.3
billion in the first nine months.

This impressive growth reached over 130 countries,
showcasing the diversity of Iran's agricultural sector, according to Rouhollah
Latifi, the spokesperson of the Trade Promotion Commission of Iran’s House of
Industry, Mine and Trade.

The increase was driven by both volume and value, with
exports exceeding six million tons and fetching over $4.3 billion. This marks a
7.2% and 22% increase in volume and value, respectively, compared to the same
period in 2022, he said.

Neighboring Iraq emerged as the top buyer of Iranian
agricultural and horticultural products, importing $1.4 billion worth of goods,
Latifi said.

“The United Arab Emirates (UAE) followed closely behind,
purchasing $531 million worth of fruits, vegetables, and other farm products.
Russia, Pakistan, and Afghanistan also ranked among Iran's key export markets.”

Iraq's hunger for Iranian produce fueled a 22% surge in food
and farm exports, highlighting the growing potential of regional trade
opportunities.

Diversification paid off for Iranian farmers, who reached
over 130 countries with their agricultural and food products, contributing to a
significant increase in both volume and value of exports.

Iran's export boom could pave the way for even stronger
agricultural partnerships with international markets, promoting economic growth
and food security.

The success of these exports demonstrates the resilience and
potential of Iran's agricultural sector, despite ongoing challenges.