Title: Government Expands Electronic Food Subsidy Program, Adds Red Meat to Essential Goods List
In a significant move to support household food security, the Iranian government has announced an extension and enhancement of its national electronic food subsidy program. The initiative, a key part of the country’s social welfare policy, provides direct assistance to millions of citizens.
Subsidy Extension and New Additions
Marjan Dabiri, the spokesperson for the Electronic Coupon Plan, confirmed that heads of households in the first to seventh income deciles now have until the end of the Iranian month of Aban 1404 (late November 2025) to utilize the fourth phase of their subsidy credits. These credits are designated for the purchase of 12 essential food items.
A notable development in this phase is the official inclusion of red meat to the list of subsidized goods. This addition, alongside other staples like dairy products, legumes, rice, red meat, chicken, and eggs, marks a strategic step to broaden nutritional support for families. The list was recently updated to also include turkey meat, reflecting a responsive approach to public needs.
Financial Allocation and Reach
The subsidy credits were deposited into household accounts in the month of Shahrivar. Households in the first to third income deciles received 500,000 Tomans, while those in the fourth to seventh deciles were allocated 350,000 Tomans. Official reports indicate that as of last week, the credits for over 14.8 million household heads in these seven deciles have been fully utilized, demonstrating the program’s active use.
A Measure for Economic Stability
The expansion of the Electronic Coupon Plan is positioned as a measure to alleviate economic pressures on citizens and stabilize the market for essential commodities. By facilitating access to basic goods, the program aims to directly support the purchasing power of lower and middle-income families. Authorities have emphasized that strengthening oversight of the supply and distribution chain for these goods is a priority to ensure the program’s objectives are fully met.
Looking Ahead: Phase Five
While the current phase four has been extended, public attention is turning to the anticipated fifth phase of the program. Although an official start date has not been announced, preliminary estimates suggest it could commence in the month of Azar 1404 (late 2025). It is expected that the same income deciles will continue to be covered, with the official credit amount to be disclosed by the relevant ministries in due course.
