Iran’s aquaculture sector has generated more than $600 million in export revenues during the first eight months of the current Iranian year (March to November), underscoring the industry’s growing contribution to the country’s non-oil exports.
According to WANA News Agency, Hamzeh Rostampour, Head of the Iran Fisheries Organisation (IFO), announced on the fringes of the National Aquaculture Conference at the Lorestan Chamber of Commerce. The industry had a great year last year, with $681 million in aquaculture exports.
Rostampour said Iran’s fisheries sector continues to expand at a pace well above global averages, with a growth rate exceeding 8 percent, compared with 3 to 4 percent globally. Over 1.5 million tonnes of fish were produced overall last year, and this year is predicted to see even more growth.
He also emphasised increased distant-water fishing performance, pointing out that record catch numbers had been achieved by Iranian vessels operating in accordance with international norms. The technical proficiency of Iranian fisherman is demonstrated by the catches of 160 to 180 tonnes reported by some vessels.
Despite being landlocked, Lorestan Province has become a high-performing aquaculture hub, according to Rostampour, pointing to regional prosperity. More than 3,000 jobs and 17,000 tonnes of additional production capacity are anticipated as a result of a newly inked agreement in the province. He pointed out that because to excellent collaboration between the public and business sectors, Lorestan today produces more than a number of coastal provinces.
More than 55,000 tonnes of shrimp have been gathered from farms around the country so far this year, according to Rostampour, who also stated that Iran is expected to achieve a new national record by year’s end.
He emphasised that aquaculture continues to be a major source of foreign exchange profits, highlighting its strategic significance in Iran’s agri-food industry.
