A conference at the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA) focused on Damask rose and organic medicinal plants.
ICCIMA President Samad Hassanzadeh said Iran’s geography gives it rare advantages in organic, medicinal and aromatic products, but proper policies are needed to create value added.
He warned that international conflicts and attacks have raised costs and concerns, urging reduced tensions and exhibitions. Despite Iran’s saffron dominance, Turkey markets saffron under its own brand, he noted, calling for clear branding of saffron, barberry, jujube and medicinal plants.
Secretary General Abolfazl Roghani Golpayegani said Iran must diversify its income basket, noting weak per capita income despite opportunities.
Mahmoud Tavallaei of the Kashan Chamber urged organic compliance from planting to harvest, contract farming and more value added.
Abolfazl Ehtesham of the National Saffron Council said organic rose water and saffron investment can protect global markets.
Ali Shariati-Moghaddam cited poor processing, packaging and unauthorized pesticides as obstacles.
Dr. Rahmani of the National Standards Organization linked organic farming to food security and sustainable development amid climate change and soil erosion, saying Iran can become a Eurasian exporter, with the 2012 National Organic Mark helping standardize products.
