TEHRAN — Iran produces more than 18 million tonnes of livestock products annually, with animal husbandry playing a vital role in the country’s agricultural sector, food security, and economy, officials said.
Hassan Khamisabadi, head of the Animal Science Research Institute of Iran, highlighted that nearly 30% of direct agricultural employment is linked to livestock, contributing over one-third of the sector’s value added. “Animal husbandry is a key driver of domestic production and supports exports and foreign exchange,” he said.
Despite challenges including water shortages, climate change, and reliance on imported inputs, Iran has laid out a roadmap focusing on knowledge-based and climate-smart livestock development.
Modern technologies in breeding, nutrition, and health, alongside smart farm management, are expected to boost productivity and quality, Khamisabadi added.
In September, an Iranian knowledge-based firm reported advances in manure processing, genomics in light livestock breeding, and the establishment of pure genetic nuclei for Roman and Blanche sheep breeds.
The company’s managing director, Ayyoub Laki, said it produces roughly 15,000 tonnes of cow’s milk and 1,500 calves annually, with a flock of 5,000 Roman and Blanche sheep. The firm plays a significant role in Iran’s light livestock industry and food security by delivering strategic products including red meat, milk, and pistachios.