The export of horticultural products is estimated to reach $2 billion in the current Iranian year (started March 21), said deputy minister of Agricultural Jihad, Mohammad-Ali Tahmasebi. “Last [Iranian] year saw a major boost in the export of products such as pistachios, dates, pomegranates, apples, kiwis, raisins, saffron and tea,” IRNA quoted the official as saying. FAO statistics show, in 2012 and 2013, Iranian farmers ranked first in producing pomegranates and third in growing dates. Iran also came 4th and 5th in production of kiwifruit and figs respectively during the period.
