Iran faces rising medicine costs and shifting food trends

In Iran, the cost of certain medicines has surged significantly. Ahmad Aryainejad, a member of the Parliament's Health and Treatment Commission, reported that prices for some imported single-ingredient drugs have increased by 3 to 4 times, and in some instances, by as much as 10 to 20 times. These products sometimes end up in the black market. Aryainejad attributed these hikes to sanctions, difficulties importing raw materials, increased shipping costs due to maritime blockades, and challenges in allocating foreign currency and procuring petrochemical materials needed for production.

In the agricultural sector, legume production in Iran is expected to increase by 10 to 15 percent compared to last year due to favorable weather conditions, higher cultivation areas, and improved yields without significant crop pests. Currently, domestic production meets approximately 70 to 75 percent of the country's legume needs. While prices for legumes have decreased compared to the previous year due to increased imports, officials warned that fluctuations in exchange rates could lead to future price increases. The rise in legume consumption is noted as a response to the rising costs of protein-based products.