Analysis of the Latest Status of Aquaculture in the Islamic Republic of Iran

Total aquatic production of the Islamic Republic of Iran has increased from 72105 tons in 1978 to 1282475 tons in 2019. In 2018, Iran ranked second in aquatic production in the Middle East and 19th in the world. Aqua culture production increased from 4935 tons in 1978 to 338,000 tons in 2012 and 526747 tons in 2019. From 2012 to 2018 total aquaculture products increased 44%, shrimp culture 371% and sturgeon culture 515%. There are also many potentials in this sector to diversify production, increase foreign exchange, provide food security and increase aquaculture production in the country. During the last five years, Hormozgan provinc (among the coastal provinces) and Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province (among non-coastal provinces) had the best performance in increasing of aquaculture production. On the other hand, in terms of production indices in 2018, Mazandaran province was the best coastal province and Lorestan province was the best in non-coastal provinces. Also, in terms of productivity and employment indices, the best coastal province was Sistan and Baluchestan province and the best non-coastal province was Isfahan province. Growth rate of aquaculture is very high in world. In Iran, growth rate of aquaculture is similar to the world. Investment of the government on aquaculture is necessary for aquaculture growth.