WANA ( Sep 17) – Iran, with extensive date production in its southern and southeastern provinces, ranks second in the world after Egypt. However, industry insiders say the sector faces multiple challenges, including export restrictions, energy shortages, rising input costs, and a newly imposed one-percent export tax—factors that threaten the future of this strategic crop.

 

Rashid Farkhi, head of the National Date Association, highlighted the domestic and export potential of dates on the occasion of National Date Day (September 16), noting: “Around 70% of Iran’s dates are consumed domestically, while 30% are exported, generating $400–500 million annually.”

 

Exports under Pressure

Farkhi stressed that conflicting regulations have undermined trust in target markets. “Any limitation or ban directly harms producers and farmers,” he said.

 

Energy Crisis During Harvest

Electricity shortages at peak harvest season remain a key challenge. Farkhi explained that blackouts in 55°C temperatures not only affect product quality but also disrupt transport to cold storage facilities.

Rising Production Costs

He noted that agricultural inputs have increased faster than inflation, placing heavy pressure on farmers. Farkhi criticized government price-control policies, saying: “The economy isn’t obedient; if it were, we’d be in a better position today.”

 

One-Percent Export Tax: Revenue or Blow to Exports?

A major concern for the sector is the new one-percent export tax. Farkhi described it as a “marginal revenue measure” that will not meaningfully address water issues. “Total agricultural exports are about $5 billion; one percent only brings $20–30 million. This is negligible compared to energy and water costs and will not improve the country’s water situation.”

 

Need for Agricultural Policy Reform

Highlighting the water crisis and the inefficiency of traditional irrigation, Farkhi said: “Water security today is more important than food security. Iran must abandon low-yield farming and move toward industrialized agriculture.” He warned that short-term overseas cultivation and unplanned water transfers pose long-term risks.

 

While dates have significant economic and export potential, structural problems in energy, policy, and global markets could weaken Iran’s position in the sector. Experts argue that only through policy reform and better resource management can the future of this strategic crop be secured.