Chabahar - Chabahar port city in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchestan province is rapidly strengthening its position as a major hub in Iran’s fisheries sector, fueled by rising production, expanding exports, and growing foreign investment, a report says.

 

According to the report carried by official website of the Ministry of Agriculture, the city’s strategic location on the Gulf of Oman, rich marine biodiversity, and direct access to open waters have made the port a central pillar of economic development along the Makran coast.

 

According to provincial fisheries officials, more than 110 industrial units are now active in Chabahar, involved in fish and shrimp processing, canning, fishmeal production, net weaving, and the construction of fishing vessels, it added.

 

 The city’s marine products are exported mainly to Persian Gulf states, Southeast Asia, China, Sri Lanka, and in limited quantities to EU countries.

 

Chabahar’s fisheries growth has significantly boosted local employment and Iran’s non-oil export revenues. Ongoing modernization efforts - including aquaculture expansion and advanced processing technologies - are further reinforcing its role as a model of a sea-based economy in southeast Iran.

 

The report also highlighted a UNIDO-Japan funded project underway in the port, aimed at improving post-harvest tuna quality, expanding market access, and diversifying value-added products. Additional research partnerships are planned to explore underutilized species and develop high-value goods from fisheries waste to enhance export potential.