Iran, Turkey strengthen agricultural trade with new feed industry agreement

TURKEY – Iran and Turkey have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cooperation in the livestock, poultry, and aquatic feed industry. 

The agreement was formalized during a meeting hosted by the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey in Ankara, marking a new chapter in bilateral agricultural trade.

Majid Movahed Ghaderi, a board member of the Tehran Chamber of Commerce, expressed optimism about the MoU’s potential impact. 

He projected that the current bilateral trade, valued at US$11.7 billion in 2023, could rise to US$30 billion by the end of the decade, with the agricultural sector contributing an estimated US$5 billion.

Despite geopolitical challenges in the Middle East, agricultural trade between Iran and Turkey has remained robust, witnessing a 30% growth in 2024. 

The latest agreement emphasizes joint investments, mutual marketing efforts, and the exchange of information on feed safety, livestock nutrition, and sustainable agricultural practices.

The Iran-Turkey Agricultural Strategic Committee hailed the agreement as a milestone in strengthening trade relations, stating, “This is a step forward in enhancing strategic agricultural ties and fostering regional trade stability.”

To further facilitate trade, both nations discussed the modernization of border gates and transportation routes. The objective is to improve connectivity between Iran, Turkey, and Central Asia, ensuring the smoother flow of goods and raw materials.

A key focal point of the agreement is the feed industry, expected to drive the future expansion of agricultural trade. 

During the Ankara meeting, the Turkish Feed Industry Association (Türkiyem-Bir) and the Iranian Feed Industry Association signed a cooperation agreement to promote feed trade and development.

Ghaderi highlighted Turkey’s growing demand for aquatic feed and raw materials, calling it a promising opportunity for Iranian producers. 

However, he also acknowledged the challenges facing Iran’s feed industry, which operates at only 30% of its designed capacity due to raw material shortages and economic constraints imposed by Western sanctions.

Despite international sanctions against Iran, Turkish officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining strong trade relations. 

Turkish Agricultural Minister Ibrahim Yumaklı emphasized the strategic importance of Iran-Turkey ties, stating, “Iran is Turkey’s gateway to Asia, and Turkey is Iran’s gateway to Europe. Despite the sanctions, we will not end our economic and trade relations with our neighbor. We are committed to this.”

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