Reviewing the sector’s performance during the previous crop year, Nouri said on Saturday that agricultural production recorded significant growth despite limited resources, the wartime situation and the pressures of a blockade.
The minister noted that agriculture has fulfilled its role as one of the drivers of the national economy by helping safeguard food security.
According to Nouri, domestic grain corn production tripled and oilseed production doubled. Barley production also increased, which he attributed to the government’s policies and changes in mechanisms for supporting agricultural production.
Nouri said exports should not be viewed solely as a means of earning foreign currency, noting that they could also help balance supply and demand, support producers and improve the management of agricultural markets.
Referring to the impact of hostile actions by the US and the Israeli regime on global food and energy conditions, the minister expressed hope that negotiations would yield results and ease the pressures imposed on Iran’s economy and household livelihoods.
He stressed, however, that if negotiations fail and Iran’s adversaries seek to undermine the Iranian people’s dignity and independence, agricultural officials and food security providers will stand alongside farmers to prevent the country’s food security from being jeopardized by disruptions in the agricultural sector.