10/10/2019 | Iran

Potatoes are poised to overtake rice as the main staple food in Iran. Economic turmoil and falling imports on the one hand, and water shortages on the other, boosted potato production.

 

 

 

Located in an arid and semi-arid region, Iran enjoys a variety of weather conditions. Rice is grown in several parts of the country, with production reaching 2.2 to 2.3 million tonnes a year, but consumption is around 3 million tonnes, which requires imports.

 

 

 

To gain food self-sufficiency, potato production has been encouraged. Since 2009 an increase of 20% per year has been recorded. Production now regularly reaches 5 million tonnes of potatoes.

 

 

 

In the future, potato production may increase further, while rice production may be penalized by its much higher water requirements.