Analyzing Iran's Status in the Global Medicinal Plant Trade

Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) have emerged as vital commodities in the global bioeconomy due to their wide-ranging applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and nutraceutical industries. This study analyzes the status of Iran in the international trade of MAPS from ۲۰۰۱ to ۲۰۲۴, drawing on global trends and bilateral trade data. Findings show that while global trade in MAPS has grown steadily, particularly after the COVID-۱۹ pandemic, Iran's export performance has remained relatively stagnant, with a notable decline after ۲۰۱۵. In contrast, imports into Iran increased significantly until ۲۰۱۷, suggesting rising domestic demand and limited local production capacity. Comparative analysis reveals that China and India dominate global exports due to strong value chains and technological infrastructure, while the United States, Germany and China are leading importers. Iran's main export partners include Turkey, Pakistan, and China, whereas imports are sourced primarily from Afghanistan, India, and Turkey. Despite its rich biodiversity and traditional knowledge, Iran faces structural challenges such as weak processing capacity, limited market diversification, and lack of policy integration. The study concludes by emphasizing the need for strategic investment, institutional coordination, and quality certification systems to enhance Iran's competitiveness in the global MAPS market and leverage its bioeconomic potential.

کلیدواژه ها:

Exports ، Imports ، Iran ، Medicinal plants ، Trade analysis