Officials from the Iran Fisheries Science Research Institute outlined a broad strategy for the current year, while the plan focuses on resilience and sustainability. Leaders also aim to improve fishing practices, aquaculture systems, and processing capabilities to boost efficiency.
Mohammad Seddiq Mortazavi, head of the institute, emphasized coordinated action across multiple agencies, and he noted that these include the Iran Fisheries Organization. In addition, collaboration involves the Environmental Protection Organization and other science authorities, which strengthens policy alignment.
The fisheries research plan targets several national priorities, and these include increasing seafood consumption while protecting ecosystems. At the same time, authorities aim to restore endangered fish stocks and preserve genetic diversity.
Technology plays a central role in the new strategy, as officials plan to introduce artificial intelligence across key research areas. For example, these include breeding, disease control, and sustainable fishing methods, while AI also supports processing.
Mortazavi highlighted the importance of knowledge transfer and education, and researchers will adapt global technologies to local conditions. They will also share findings with producers to improve efficiency and output across the sector.
Nanotechnology and biotechnology will support innovation in fish health and nutrition, and these tools can enhance productivity. As a result, authorities believe such technologies will modernize the sector and improve competitiveness.
Iran’s fisheries industry already plays a major economic role, as it supports many direct and indirect jobs. Moreover, the sector contributes significantly to export revenues, which reinforces its importance.
Production remains concentrated on high-value species, including rainbow trout, common carp, and Pacific whiteleg shrimp. In particular, shrimp farming has shown strong growth in southern coastal regions.
Geography shapes production patterns across the country, as cold-water fish farms operate near mountain ranges. Meanwhile, coastal provinces lead shrimp production, since environmental conditions support large-scale farming.
Export performance continues to improve steadily, while key markets include China, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates. In recent years, revenue from fishery exports has reached strong levels, which reflects rising demand.
Officials have set clear long-term goals for the sector, and total production could reach 1.8 million tons by 2030. At the same time, export targets aim to exceed one billion dollars annually.
Research efforts will also extend to natural resource management, as scientists will study fish stocks in northern waters. If funding becomes available, additional assessments may cover southern seas.
The fisheries research plan reflects a broader economic strategy, as Iran seeks to diversify income sources beyond oil. Furthermore, aquaculture expansion offers strong potential for regional development and job creation.
Experts see this initiative as a turning point for the industry, because advanced technologies could improve productivity. In addition, strong coordination may enhance policy effectiveness and accelerate implementation.
Future progress depends on consistent funding and execution, while authorities plan to equip research stations with modern systems. Continued investment will determine the scale of success.
This fisheries research plan highlights a forward-looking approach, as it combines science and policy to drive growth. Ultimately, the fisheries research plan positions the industry for long-term resilience.