Raw agricultural products—such as wheat, barley, rice, corn, cotton, sugar beet, saffron, pistachios, dates, apples, grapes, and vegetables—form the foundation of the food supply chain and provide essential inputs for food and agro-industries.

The production of these crops depends on climate conditions, soil quality, water availability, and agricultural expertise. In Iran, traditional farming methods are still common, though modern technologies such as smart irrigation, stress-resistant crops, and mechanization are gradually being adopted.

Raw agricultural products are a key source of income for rural households and contribute to national food security as well as the supply of raw materials for food and livestock industries.

Iran is a major global supplier of specialty products such as saffron, pistachios, dates, and apples. These items are highly valued in international markets due to their distinctive flavor and quality.

Iran’s competitive advantages include climatic diversity, varied harvesting seasons, affordable labor, and low production costs. These factors provide strong potential for both production and export. However, further improvements are needed in productivity, supply chain efficiency, and waste reduction to maximize long-term competitiveness.