Tehran – The Iranian Minister of Agriculture announced a new justice-oriented development plan, merit-based management, and stronger support for producers as key priorities of the ministry.

 

Speaking at a meeting attended by First Vice President Mohammadreza Aref, Gholamreza Nouri said the first justice-based agricultural development document has been drafted, focusing on sustainable use of water and soil resources.

 

He noted that connecting farmers to global markets has prevented product waste, with no cases of disposal reported over the past year. Agricultural exports grew 32%, improving the trade balance from –$11 billion to –$8 billion — a record achievement for the sector.

 

The minister added that over 3 million tons of livestock feed are available at ports and will enter the market shortly after financial settlements with the Central Bank.

 

He also outlined plans for self-sufficiency in sugar, red meat, and tropical fruits (especially bananas) by the end of the government’s term and revealed that nearly one million hectares of land in Russia, Kazakhstan, Tanzania, and Kenya have been allocated for Iranian agricultural projects abroad.

 

Highlighting greenhouse farming as a key strategy, Nouri said it boosts productivity up to sixfold while reducing water use by the same ratio, offering a three-year return on investment and strengthening food security.