Iranian Minister Reaffirms Continuation of Preferential Currency for Essential Goods, Highlights Agricultural Progress
In a firm declaration, Iran’s Minister of Agriculture, Gholamreza Nouri Qezeljeh, has confirmed the government’s ongoing commitment to supplying preferential foreign currency for essential goods at the previous, stable rate. This policy is a cornerstone of the administration’s strategy to ensure market stability and support citizens’ livelihoods.
Unwavering Support for Stable Markets
Speaking on Thursday on the sidelines of the Guilan Agricultural Council meeting, Minister Nouri Qezeljeh stated, “The allocation of preferential currency for essential goods continues at the same previous price, and I express this matter with certainty.” This announcement directly addresses and dispels any public speculation regarding potential changes to this critical economic mechanism, reinforcing the government’s focus on maintaining affordability for basic commodities.
A Determined Focus on Agricultural Producers
The Minister’s visit to Guilan province underscored the government’s dedication to the agricultural sector, a vital component of Iran’s economy. Nouri Qezeljeh emphasized the administration’s resolve to support farmers and address challenges they face.
“Effective measures have been taken in the 13th government for farmers,” he noted, adding that these efforts have resulted in tangible improvements. “The selling price and market for agricultural products have changed compared to the past,” indicating a positive shift in market conditions for producers. The Minister also paid tribute to the hard work of farmers, crediting their efforts for driving economic growth and increasing export capabilities, a success he attributed to all agricultural sector stakeholders.
Streamlining Regulations and Provincial Development
During his one-day trip, the Minister also addressed specific operational hurdles. He announced plans to simplify and shorten the permit process for poplar farmers, who require official authorization for harvesting. This move is designed to reduce bureaucratic barriers and facilitate smoother operations for those in the industry.
His itinerary included inspections of key agricultural sites, such as a rice processing unit in Bandar Anzali, a 650-hectare olive grove, and an international olive collection in Aliabad. These visits highlight the strategic importance of Guilan, a province renowned as the nation’s largest producer of high-quality native rice and a significant contributor to the production of tea, olives, and poultry. With 314,000 hectares of farmland and 317,000 people employed in the sector, Guilan’s agricultural health is crucial to national food security and economic prosperity.
This comprehensive approach—combining firm economic policy for essential goods with hands-on support for agricultural development—illustrates the government’s multi-faceted strategy to bolster the nation’s economy and ensure the well-being of its people.