Annual pistachio production expected to double
Estimates indicate that 200,000-210,000 tons of dry pistachios will be produced in Iran during the current Iranian year (started March 21), showing a 100-percent rise compared to the corresponding figure for preceding year.
Jalil Karbakhsh-Ravari, vice president of the Board of Trustees of the Iran Pistachio Association (IPA), told IRNA on Saturday that it’s possible for the country to export $1.5 billion worth of the product annually.
Last year, the country’s pistachio production was about 100,000 tons, of which about 30,000 tons, worth $200 billion, were exported.
The official added that the main reasons for the decrease in pistachio production in the country last year were due to frost damage, heat waves, reduced rainfall, continuous drought, water resource shortages, declining groundwater levels, and a reduction in the quality of groundwater. He also noted that some regulations have hindered exports.
Karbakhsh stated that the major pistachio harvest and the peak of pistachio exports for Iran and other rival countries is around September-October each year.
Currently, the majority of Iran’s pistachios have been harvested, so exports should have taken place before the start of the new calendar year. However, it was expected that Iran would have a more significant and better presence in the global pistachio market, but unfortunately could not fulfill it, said the official.
He added that pistachio cultivation areas are expanding in many provinces of the country, as 27 provinces now having pistachio plantations, and Kerman Province still holds the top position, with 50% of production.
Also, South Khorasan, Khorasan Razavi, Yazd, Semnan, and Fars provinces are among the main producers.
The official added, “According to global statistics, the United States is the top producer and exporter of pistachios, with 680,000 tons of production. Iran is ranked second and third in pistachio production and exports, respectively.
Karbakhsh-Ravari harbored hope that the government will take the necessary steps to facilitate exports of such products, as pistachio exports have been considered the top non-oil export in the country in recent years.