Considering Virtual Water Trade Strategy of Crops and Horticultural Products in Iran

Nowadays, water scarcity due to the climate change and uneven distribution of rainfall in most regions and countries, including Iran, has become a serious concern and the most important obstacle to the country's economic development. Trade, as a means to avoid unnecessary water resources outflow, with a focus on virtual water trade strategy, can play a key role in achieving economic development. This study aims at assessing the virtual water approach in terms of trade in agricultural and horticultural crops. In this regard, the export and the import of each horticultural and agricultural crops in 1393, has been analyzed from the point of virtual water trade theory; Then some strategic recommendations has been presented about optimal management of water resources. Results shows that, in 1393, Iran has traded in the horticultural and agricultural subsectors with crops importing; In essence of this issue it has saved the amount of 9719.35 million cubic meters of domestic water resources which can be used in industry and can make more added values. Moreover, according to the significant contribution of agricultural commodities exchanges in trade, and especially the traditional operating system which then leads to suboptimal use of resources like water, virtual water-based trade can be mentioned as a strategy with an effective role in improving water efficiency and saving resources.