The Saudi Arabian market, recognized as one of the Middle East's largest, has historically been receptive to Iranian agricultural products, particularly fruits, due to their distinct quality and flavors. A recent development saw Iran and Saudi Arabia initiating the formation of a technical committee focused on agriculture. This move, announced during the COP16 conference in Riyadh, aims to facilitate the re-entry of Iranian fruits into Saudi markets.
Iran, being the foremost fruit producer in the region, stands to benefit from this collaboration, especially considering the past presence of its fruits in Saudi Arabia, a country whose climatic conditions limit local fruit cultivation. However, political and economic tensions, alongside sanctions, have previously hindered Iran's export capabilities to Saudi Arabia.
According to Nournews, the establishment of two technical committees, concentrating on agriculture and deforestation, was agreed upon by the agriculture ministers of both nations. Human Fathi, Iran's director-general of international affairs of Agricultural Jihad, highlighted the significance of this engagement, noting it as a landmark in Tehran-Riyadh collaborations. Fathi emphasized the mutual climatic challenges shared by parts of Iran and Saudi Arabia, suggesting that this commonality could foster shared experiences and advancements in agricultural methodologies.
Saudi Arabia's investment in agricultural infrastructure and research has been substantial, positioning the nation as a key player in the sector. Iran, with its robust agricultural capabilities, views this as an opportunity for mutual benefit. Despite previous export challenges, the revival of diplomatic and trade ties, spearheaded by Iran's Minister of Agriculture, has led to the prioritization of forming these technical committees.
The demand for Iranian agricultural products, including citrus fruits, nuts, and saffron, remains high in Saudi Arabia. With the new agreements in place, there's optimism for the resurgence of Iranian exports to the kingdom. Agricultural products, unaffected by sanctions, present a viable avenue for re-establishing trade relations, further bolstered by the potential market among Iranian Hajj pilgrims.
In 2022, Saudi Arabia's agricultural imports totaled approximately $29.4 billion, mirroring Iran's oil revenue. The kingdom's challenges in agriculture, primarily water scarcity and reliance on food imports, underscore the potential for Iranian fruits to meet Saudi demand. With both countries navigating the complexities of modern agriculture and trade relations, the prospects for Iranian fruits, including apples, pistachios, and dates, in Saudi markets look promising.
Source: NOURNEWS