Iran to import 50,000 tons of potatoes to stabilize prices amid rising food costs

he imported produce will be priced at approximately 30 US cents per kilogram, which is less than half the current market prices. This move aims to alleviate the financial burden on the average Iranian wage earner, whose income is around $150.

According to Akbar Fat’hi, the combination of imported and domestically stored potatoes is expected to lower prices soon. The minister attributes the elevated prices to increased exports and the off-season for local potato production. He indicated that further imports might be necessary if market conditions do not stabilize.

This decision comes amid reports of rising prices for essential food items. Labor activist Faramarz Tofighi, in an interview with ILNA, pointed out the increasing cost of vegetables, including potatoes, making it challenging for workers to purchase basic necessities. Tofighi stated, "The real inflation rate for essential goods is likely above 50-60%," contrasting with the official rate of about 40%.

He further noted that many families might soon be unable to afford red meat monthly, citing escalating prices for bread, meat, dairy, and an 80% surge in egg prices over the last two months.