According to Citrono, citing Khabar Online, Ahmad Anaraki-Mohammadi, the representative of Rafsanjan and Anar in the Islamic Consultative Assembly, addressed the issues faced by pistachio producers and exporters at the 8th National Pistachio Festival in Rafsanjan. In his speech, he referred to the 250-year history of Rafsanjan’s pistachio orchards and mentioned that although this product has been cultivated with great effort, farmers are currently facing numerous challenges due to a lack of proper planning and necessary knowledge. He emphasized that education in the agricultural sector is a critical issue that has been neglected, and for success to be achieved, farmers need to be equipped with modern knowledge.

Water Shortage and Agricultural Challenges

Anaraki-Mohammadi also highlighted the water crisis, stating that at one time, there were 60,000 agricultural wells in Iran, but now this number has increased to 860,000. He added that until 2011, water flow had increased in many areas, but since then, the flow has decreased, indicating a significant reduction in underground water resources. He stressed that the water crisis is a serious issue, and measures must be taken to conserve and manage water resources. He also mentioned water transfer projects from the Persian Gulf as necessary but emphasized that water conservation, especially in the agricultural sector, which consumes 97% of the country's water, should not be overlooked.

Heat Damage and Power Outages Impacting Pistachio Crops

The representative from Rafsanjan and Anar further addressed the problems caused by climate change and unfavorable conditions, stating that this year, due to a two-month heat dome and frequent power outages, over 53% of the pistachio crop has been lost. This situation has severely impacted farmers, and proper planning is needed to tackle these crises.

Importance of Exports and Competing in Global Markets

Anaraki-Mohammadi noted that 95% of Iran’s pistachios are exported and that pistachios account for a significant portion of agricultural exports. He explained that out of $3.6 billion in agricultural exports, $1.4 billion comes from pistachios. However, due to intense competition with other countries, such as the U.S., which is active in the global pistachio market, Iran must create new markets for pistachio exports. He mentioned Eurasia, Malaysia, Russia, and India as new export destinations and stressed the need to develop new markets to maintain competitiveness.

Production Challenges and Use of Technology

The representative also discussed the challenges related to agricultural technology, explaining that Iran's pistachio orchards operate with minimal technology. He said that without modern technology, no proper trade is taking place, and the products cannot compete in the global market. He also highlighted the importance of bartering to acquire agricultural equipment and called for the introduction of new technologies in this field.

Quality of Pesticides and Fertilizers

Anaraki-Mohammadi addressed the issue of poor-quality pesticides and fertilizers in the market, noting that farmers have used pesticides up to 20 times, but these chemicals have not only failed to eliminate pests but have strengthened and adapted them. He explained that a significant portion of the pesticides and fertilizers available in the market are substandard and produced unregulated, often in makeshift settings, with little oversight.

Aflatoxin Control and Leveraging International Opportunities

He also raised the issue of aflatoxin, stating that despite the possibility of controlling this problem, a lack of adequate training has affected the quality of Iran’s pistachio exports. He recalled a time when Rafsanjan was recognized as a credible export hub but noted that today, due to non-compliance with standards, almost anyone can become an exporter. He also pointed to the potential of using the capacities of member countries in organizations such as Shanghai and BRICS to expand pistachio exports and called for leveraging these opportunities to improve the conditions of farmers.

Fuel and Water Transfer Issues

In conclusion, Anaraki-Mohammadi addressed the issue of fuel and diesel supply for farmers, stating that the government needs to provide more support in this regard. He also mentioned legal issues related to water transfer from different basins and called for reforms to water balance laws, particularly for productive lands with old trees that require irrigation.

Follow our Instagram page for the latest news on Iran’s nuts and dried fruits industry.