The Iranian fish and seafood export market has experienced a surge in the first quarter of the Iranian calendar year, with a 30% increase in value and a 40% increase in volume compared to the same period in 2023.

Record-Breaking Figures

According to Abbas Mokhtari, Director General of the Quality Improvement, Processing and Market Authority of the Iranian Ministry of Agriculture, Iran exported a total of 73,369 tons of fish and seafood products worth USD 121.4 million in the first quarter. This is a significant jump from the 52,282 tons worth USD 93.1 million exported during the same period in 2023.

Iran’s shrimp exports played a notable role in this growth, with sales reaching USD 98.5 million last year, accounting for 32% of the country’s total fish export revenue. The Iranian Fisheries Organization is planning to increase shrimp production to 206,000 tons in the next two years by expanding the number of shrimp ponds.

Key Markets Drive Demand

Iran’s fish and seafood are in high demand in several key markets, including the UAE, China, Russia, and Iraq. The country’s proximity to these markets and its competitive pricing make it an attractive destination for buyers.