Tehran — Iran’s livestock industry has become the country's second most important economic sector after oil, playing a pivotal role in national food security and export revenues, according to senior agricultural officials.

 

Alireza Rafiee-Pour, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Head of the Iran Veterinary Organization, said that over 85% of the food consumed in Iran’s three daily meals comes from animal-based products.

 

He highlighted that the sector, encompassing livestock, poultry, beekeeping, aquaculture, and silkworm farming, represents more than $70 billion in circulating capital and supports the annual production of 18 million tons of animal products, with around 4 million tons exported each year.

 

Rafiee-Pour emphasized Iran’s self-sufficiency and independence in the production of eggs, milk, honey, and aquatic products.

 

He noted that Iran ranks first globally in rainbow trout production, third in poultry, and seventh in honey output, showcasing the country's growing competitiveness in global agricultural markets.

 

The senior official further stressed that the entire chain of production—from farm to domestic market to export—is strictly monitored by the Iran Veterinary Organization to ensure public health and maintain high sanitary standards.

 

"This strategic oversight is critical to protecting our national resources and sustaining Iran’s position in international markets," he concluded.