Iran Sets New Wheat Price to Bolster Farmer Support and National Self-Sufficiency
In a significant move to support its agricultural sector, Iran has established a new price for wheat for the upcoming season. The decision, announced following a high-level council meeting, has been described as a balanced measure that secures the interests of both farmers and the public.
A Satisfactory Outcome for Farmers
Ataollah Hashemi, Head of the National Wheat Farmers Foundation, confirmed that the newly determined price has been set to the satisfaction of the farming community. “The price set in the council meeting is satisfactory to the farmers, as the interests of both the farmer and the people were taken into account,” Hashemi stated. He further highlighted the collaborative spirit of the meeting, noting positive cooperation from the Minister of Agriculture, the Ministry of Economy, and the Head of the Parliamentary Agriculture Commission.
The official announcement of the specific price is expected to be made shortly by the Minister of Agriculture.
Driving Towards Self-Sufficiency
The new pricing policy is seen as a crucial step toward achieving the nation’s goal of agricultural self-sufficiency. Hashemi expressed optimism, forecasting that “considering the price conditions and insurance support, it is predicted that the self-sufficiency policy will be realized.”
He emphasized that, when combined with existing government support policies, the new guaranteed purchase rate for wheat adequately covers the farmers’ production costs, ensuring the economic viability of wheat cultivation.
Broader Economic Implications
The wheat price is set to have a ripple effect across the agricultural economy. Hashemi revealed that pricing for 31 other agricultural products, which are often benchmarked against the wheat price, will be determined in a council meeting next week.
Furthermore, he called on the Agricultural Bank and other agent banks to facilitate liquidity for farmers. This financial support is deemed essential for providing access to vital inputs and improved seeds. Hashemi stressed that such measures are critical not only for empowering farmers but also for preventing the bankruptcy of seed production companies, thereby strengthening the entire agricultural supply chain.