IFO reports 17% growth in national caviar output last year
A senior official at the Iran Fisheries Organization (IFO) reported a 17% growth in Iran's caviar production last year (1403, began on March 20, 2024).
"The country's caviar production increased from 21 tons and 600 kilograms in the year 1402 to 25 tons and 100 kilograms in 1403," said Nasser Karami-Rad, the head of the renovation office at IFO.
Karami-Rad announced the extensive development of sturgeon farming in 22 provinces across the country, adding, "Given the suitable climatic capacities for expanding the industry in the second development phase, targets have been set for producing over 140 tons of caviar and 20,000 tons of sturgeon meat," IRNA reported.
He stated that investment in the sector is highly profitable, noting that investment dashboards for industry development in various provinces have been prepared.
"Last year, sturgeon meat production reached over 6,050 tons, representing approximately 26% growth compared to the year 1402. Additionally, the country's caviar production increased from 21 tons and 600 kilograms (21.6 tons) to over 25 tons and 100 kilograms (25.1 tons), indicating a 17% growth," Karami-Rad noted.
In the export sector, he said, "Over 7.5 tons of caviar were directly exported through customs.”
According to the official, it is estimated that a significant portion of Iran's caviar has also been transported abroad by passengers as personal luggage.
He pointed out that Iran's caviar remains unrivaled in the global market and has its own specific clientele.
Karami-Rad added that the country's capacity for sturgeon production and exports is increasing, and new opportunities for investment in the sector have emerged.