Iran’s Shrimp Farming Industry: A Comprehensive Outlook on Its Past, Present, and Future

By Zeinab Khodaei

Origins and Evolution

Iran’s shrimp farming industry began in the late 1980s, taking its first practical steps in 1993 with just seven farms—six located in Khuzestan and one in Hormozgan. By 1995, the shrimp farming area had reached 182 hectares, signaling a move toward industrial-scale production. Over the next three decades, Iran’s shrimp farming expanded rapidly, increasing to reach 16,600 hectares. Today, shrimp are farmed in coastal provinces including Khuzestan, Bushehr, Hormozgan, Sistan & Baluchestan in south and Golestan province in north of Iran.

From Modest Harvests to Global Exports

In 1995, Iran’s shrimp production stood at a modest 136  MT, compared to 732,000 MT globally. However, by 2024, Iran’s harvest exceeded 45.500 MT, with more than 90% of this output exported to markets such as China, Russia, Europe, Persian Gulf countries, and other neighboring nations. Iran’s 2022 harvest was approximately 4,000 MT less than 2023; this decrease is due to the producers’ focus on sustainable produce and marketplace limitations.

Iranian shrimp is globally recognized for its superior taste and visual quality. According to the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration and the Union of Aquaculture Production and Trade of Iran, in 2021, the industry generated over $150 million by producing more than 57,000 MT and exporting more than 36,000 MT of shrimp. Iran’s shrimp exporting reached 31000, 29500 and 28800 MT in 2022 to 2024 respectively. This trend is caused by a decrease in production, an increase in domestic consumption (from 10 to 25%), and the fluctuations in market faced by the producers and exporters.

A Resilient Industry in the Face of Global Disruptions

Despite the instabilities in the global marketplace, with a 15% decline in global shrimp production due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 (a reduction of approximately 600,000 MT, according to the FAO), Iran has focused on building momentum and resilience by increasing its shrimp produce to up to 20% during the same period, this indicates effective management and operational resilience.

Key Industry Growth Metrics

• Number of Farms:

  From 36 farms in 1995 to 1099 farms in 2025.

• Harvest Volume:

  From 136 MT in 1995 to 60,518 MT in 2021.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

Growth Driven by Private Investment and Infrastructure Expansion

The expansion of shrimp farming complexes in southern provinces and the Gomishan region Golestan province in north reflects increased private sector interest and investment. New hatcheries, shrimp farms, and aquatic feed production facilities are under development. Existing livestock and poultry feed factories are being converted to shrimp and other aquatics feed production, while processing units and cold storage facilities are scaling up to support growing demand.

Although past inconsistencies caused temporary imbalances—such as surplus processing capacity—the rapid pace of farm construction and shrimp production is aligning infrastructure more closely with output.

Risks on the Horizon

The industry’s future is promising, but certain threats remain:

• Disease Outbreaks: Emerging diseases like AHPND, or Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease, could halt progress if not managed effectively.
• Geopolitical Risks: Diplomatic tensions and sanctions could disrupt export channels and financial stability.
• Currency Fluctuations: Changes in foreign exchange rates may impact profitability but will likely have short-term effects. Due to the shrimp industry’s low currency dependency and positive trade balance, it remains profitable even in less favorable currency environments.
• Global Price Drops: A decline in international shrimp prices—like after the 9/11 attacks or covid pandemy—could challenge profitability, though the industry has historically adapted to such shocks.

Sustainability Through Productivity

The continued growth of this industry in Iran is strongly tied to improvements in productivity and management practices. Adoption of modern technologies, theoretical knowledge, and data-driven decision-making has reduced production costs and improved efficiency.

However, as real exchange rates rise—leading to higher costs—those who fail to improve their management systems will likely fall behind. Past experiences with disease outbreaks, natural disasters, global crises (like COVID-19), and political turmoil show that adaptability and innovation are essential for resilience.

National Growth Targets and Global Competition

Ambitious but Achievable Goals

Iran’s Ministry of Agriculture (Iranian Fisheries Organization) has set an ambitious vision for the industry:

• In the Seventh Development Plan, the expansion of infrastructure and the utilization of existing capacities are among the top priorities of the Iranian Fisheries Organization, a direction also welcomed by the private sector.
• Given the available infrastructure, the modern approach of the private sector, and the commitment of the members of the Iranian Aquatic Production and Trade Union to sustainable principles in shrimp farming and to meeting the requirements of global markets, including ASC standards, it is projected that by the final year of the Plan (2028), shrimp production will reach 100,000 tonnes, which in turn generates export revenues of USD 400 million.

Given the current trajectory, these figures are within reach. Yet, as global production surges, competition will intensify. To remain competitive, Iran must:

• Implement efficient and cost-effective production models
• Enhance branding and market positioning
• Establish unified export consortium
• Leverage the distinct taste and quality of Iranian shrimp

2024 Production Snapshot by Province

Conclusion

Iran’s shrimp farming industry has emerged as a dynamic and resilient sector, capable of competing on the global stage. Continued investment in infrastructure, scientific expertise, and sustainable practices along with proactive efforts to brand and consolidate exports can ensure long-term growth and global recognition for Iranian farmed shrimp.