Estimated Damage to 350 Rice Containers in Shahid Rajaee Port Fire

Tehran – May 4, 2025 – An estimated 300 to 350 rice containers may have sustained significant damage following a recent fire incident at Shahid Rajaee Port, according to Majidreza Khaki, Secretary General of the Iranian Rice Importers Association.

In an interview with YJC, Khaki stated that over 200,000 tons of rice are currently stockpiled across Iran’s ports, with approximately 120,000 to 130,000 tons stored specifically at Shahid Rajaee Port. The damaged containers, which belong to private sector importers, were reportedly located within the premises of Sina Company.

“Due to the intensity of the fire, a large portion of these rice shipments has effectively become unfit for consumption,” he noted. He also emphasized that final figures are still pending more detailed assessments, and the current damage estimates may change.

Khaki urged the government to take swift and transparent action to evaluate losses and resolve issues related to foreign currency allocation and import registration for the affected shipments. “A clear framework is needed to compensate importers and prevent disruptions in the rice supply chain,” he stressed.

He also highlighted the substantial stockpiles of rice at other ports and land borders, calling for expedited clearance procedures, the renewal of expired import permits, and timely currency allocation to ensure market stability and prevent potential shortages.