Move adds to mounting logistics challenges causing supply issues and rising prices for fresh produce trade
As conflict with the US and Israel continues, Iran has announced a halt on the exports of “all food and agricultural products”, according to a report from local news agency Tasnim.
The agency, which is said to be associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, shared a government statement in the report noting shipments would be blocked until further notice.
“The government has prioritised the supply of essential goods for the people,” the statement said.
According to the USDA, Iran accounts for around 18 per cent of global pistachio output, 6 per cent of the world’s cherries and 3 per cent of the global production of apples and peaches (including nectarines).
The decision to halt exports adds to mounting logistics difficulties plaguing the region that will see significant impacts to fresh produce supply.
Iran is a significant supplier of fresh fruit to neighbouring countries across the Middle East and Asia, with India one of the leading destinations.
Iran supplied almost 150,000 tonnes of fresh fruit to India in 2025, accounting for than 16 per cent of India’s total fruit imports in 2025, according to Fresh Intelligence analysis of ITC Trademap data. Shipments are dominated by apples, with Iran ranking as India’s largest supplier by value in 2024 (US$95m), according to customs data.
The Indian market has already reported rising prices as shipments have been delayed or halted altogether. According to ETV Bharat, apple prices have increased by Rs30 (US$0.33) to Rs40 (US$0.43) per kilogram. Other industry sources expect further increases of up to 20 per cent if current disruptions continue.
