Rice Imports Top $1b in 5 Months

More than $1 billion worth of rice were imported to Iran during the current Iranian year’s first five months (March 21-Aug. 22), data released by the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration show.
India was the biggest exporter with $583 million worth of exports followed by Pakistan with $350 million, Thailand with $79 million and the UAE with $60 million, IRIB News reported.
According to IRICA, $21.63 million worth of rice were imported to Iran’s free trade zones during the period.
Rice consumption in Iran is currently 3 million tons per year, 70% of which are supplied through domestic production, according to a deputy agriculture minister.