Agriculture Minister Hails Iran's Economic Reform, Reports No Supply Shortages

Iran’s Agriculture Minister Gholamreza Nouri-Qezeljeh said othat markets have seen no supply shortages since the launch of a major government economic program two months ago, rejecting earlier predictions of deficits.

"There has not been a single day of shortages since the start of the government’s major economic plan," he said, adding that the program had been implemented successfully and market needs had been met, IRNA reported. He said that despite heavy demand, work discipline had been maintained and visible satisfaction was now evident among lower-income groups.

The recent economic reforms represent the strongest support for producers, he said, adding that farmers will now be able to sell their products at fair prices and that price suppression or restrictive administered pricing would end.

Under a new policy approved by the government’s economic team, all foreign currency transactions are now centralized in a single trading hall with a negotiated rate closely aligned with market prices. The policy shifts foreign currency allocation from the beginning of the supply chain to direct subsidy transfers at the consumer end.

Nouri-Qezeljeh said connecting Iran’s production sector to global markets requires higher quality, adding that the future will be defined by competition and that research, education and extension sectors must mobilize fully because producers can only achieve profitability in the new environment through productivity gains.

President Masoud Pezeshkian has announced formation of a specialized government team operating under Articles 127 and 138 of the Constitution to monitor implementation, resolve obstacles and adjust the program as needed. The group includes the ministers of agriculture, industry, mines and trade, economy and welfare, the vice president of the Plan and Budget Organization, the Central Bank governor, the justice minister and other relevant officials. The team reviews data daily, identifies problems and issues corrective decisions. - Iran Daily