Customs Data Shows Sharp Decline in Essential Imports

Iranian customs data reveals a significant drop in imports of animal feed, fertilizers, and agricultural inputs since the elimination of the preferential exchange rate on December 2. The loss of the subsidized forex window has made importing basic agricultural commodities three times more expensive overnight. Livestock farmers warn of an impending meat shortage as feed costs become prohibitive. Pharmaceutical importers report similar difficulties, with letters of credit increasingly difficult to secure from sanctioned banks.