Delay in Order Registrations May Lead to Increased Prices for Imported Rice

In an interview with the chairman of the Rice Importers Association, Karim Akhavan emphasized the challenges posed by the four-month ban on rice imports, which begins every year at the start of July 22nd during the harvest season. He pointed out two major issues arising from this situation.

Akhavan noted that delays in the allocation of foreign currency for rice importers by the government have disrupted the import process. Traditionally, rice is imported and sold first, with the Central Bank allocating the necessary funds to importers after about six to eight months.

He highlighted that the operation of the Iranian rice market relies heavily on private sector credibility. Due to delays in order registrations, some shipments are stuck in customs. If this continues, it is likely that rice prices will rise in the coming months.

According to the latest directive from the Market Regulation Headquarters dated July 20, all shipments that arrived at customs before the end of July and have registered orders should be cleared. However, this directive has not been implemented, and shipments are still held up in warm port conditions that increase the risk of spoilage, with no action taken to release the goods so far.