TEHRAN – Iran has the potential and capability to produce three million tons of aquatics annually, the head of Iran Fisheries Organization Shabanali Nezami noted here Saturday.

“Fish farming and the catch are projected to reach 1.6 million tons by 2010-2011 period which is way below the known prospective estimated in a recent study,” he said, adding that the country has mainly been focusing on selling fish while not paying adequate attention to the export of other aquatics.

Nezami also commented that 50% growth in reproduction and release of 300 million fingerlings in the north in contrast to projected 200 million are indicative of ‘scientific planning’ implemented last year. Moreover, 44% increase in catch and reproduction in northern Iran as well as 20-30% growth in the south are the expected figures to achieve this year, he said in conclusion.