TEHRAN – Iran has allocated $1.2 billion in foreign currency over the past two weeks to import basic goods, Agriculture Minister Gholamreza Nouri said, adding that special trade “green lines” have been established, particularly with neighboring countries, to facilitate imports.

Speaking on Wednesday at a meeting of the agricultural subsidy system reform task force, Nouri said supporting the production, distribution and consumption chains of agricultural products and essential goods is being pursued with particular sensitivity by the government and the Ministry of Agriculture.

He said international law prohibits sanctions on food and medicine, noting that while restrictions may target transportation and raise costs, sanctions on people’s food are banned under humanitarian principles.

Nouri added that since the start of the 14th administration, Iran has pursued active economic and agricultural diplomacy, with international engagement in the agricultural sector expanding in recent months, especially after the 12-day conflict.

He said trade green lines, particularly with neighboring countries, have been created to fully utilize import capacities for essential goods.

EF/MA