روند و آینده کشاورزی ارگانیک در ایران و پاکستان

The organic farming (OF) and industries in Iran and Pakistan have seen notable expansion due to rising consumer demand for ecologically friendly food. This growth aligns with a global trend towards OF, which relies on natural processes and inputs to enhance soil fertility and biodiversity. In Iran, the government has shown commitment to advancing OF through legislation and incentives, recognizing its potential to enhance environmental sustainability and food security. Iran's diverse agro-ecological conditions and long agricultural history provide a strong foundation for OF. However, challenges such as insufficient market infrastructure and water scarcity persist. The government has implemented policies to support organic agriculture, including streamlining certification processes and offering financial incentives to farmers. Despite these efforts, the organic sector remains in its infancy, with limited infrastructure for promotion and distribution, and a weak certification program that can hinder market growth and consumer trust. However, more investment in agricultural research, development of crop varieties suited for OF, and expansion of farmer training programs are needed. Iran is also exploring innovative farming methods, such as agroecology and permaculture, to improve sustainability and resilience to climate change.
Similarly, Pakistan's OF movement is gaining momentum with support from both public and private sectors. The country's diverse climate zones allow for a variety of organic crops, and there is growing interest in sustainable farming practices. However, challenges include low farmer awareness, limited access to organic certification, and competition from conventional agriculture. Consumer awareness of environmental and health issues is driving market growth for organic products in Pakistan. Like Iran, Pakistan is adopting modern technologies, such as data-driven decision-making and precision farming tools, to optimize resource use and increase productivity.
The future of OF in Iran and Pakistan looks promising, with significant potential for growth driven by increasing global demand. However, to realize this potential, challenges such as improving market access, enhancing farmer training and developing robust regulatory and certification frameworks must be addressed. There are opportunities for regional cooperation in OF due to their similar agricultural conditions and challenges. Sharing best practices and expertise in sustainable agriculture and water-efficient methods, could benefit both countries. Research collaborations on suitable organic crop varieties could enhance yields and adaptability to changing environmental conditions. Joint efforts in developing market infrastructure and certification processes could also facilitate access to international markets. Despite the potential for collaboration, gaps such as the lack of formal agreements and differences in certification procedures hinder strong partnerships. Internal issues like limited financial resources, poor infrastructure, and low farmer awareness also impede the development of the organic sectors in both nations. Overcoming these barriers will be crucial for leveraging the full potential of OF in Iran and Pakistan to support food security and sustainable agriculture.