FAO and Iran Unite for Groundbreaking Project to Boost Climate-Resilient Agriculture in the Region

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has recently launched a significant initiative aimed at enhancing climate-resilient agriculture in Iran and neighboring countries. This new Regional Technical Cooperation Project focuses on promoting sustainable farming practices for drought-tolerant crops such as quinoa, millets, and soybeans, which are known for their nutritional benefits and resilience against climate change.

The official introduction of this project took place during the National Inception Workshop held in Tehran on 21 October 2025. Approximately 40 participants were present, including representatives from the government, private sectors, research institutions, civil society organizations, specialized associations, farmers, and the food and feed industries. Also in attendance were officials from FAO’s Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific and the FAO Iran Representation.

During the workshop, three product-based stakeholder groups were formed to:

• Discuss the project’s background and objectives.
• Outline expected outcomes and implementation strategies.
• Prioritize activities and finalize the country work plan based on national needs and participant feedback.

Iran, situated in an arid and semi-arid region, is grappling with water scarcity and recurring droughts, which have severely impacted its agricultural systems. With agriculture responsible for nearly 80 percent of total water withdrawals, the sector is particularly vulnerable to climate change effects such as:

• Reduced rainfall
• Higher temperatures
• Accelerated evaporation rates

In response to these challenges, the FAO regional project offers a comprehensive framework for addressing water and climate issues through:

• Agronomic innovations
• Technology transfer
• Institutional strengthening
• Raising awareness about the nutritional and environmental benefits of climate-resilient crops

This project aims to scale up the cultivation of drought-tolerant crops like quinoa, millets, and soybeans within Iran. It will also promote:

• Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
• Participatory Varietal Selection (PVS)
• Farmer Field Schools (FFS)

These initiatives are designed to enhance productivity and sustainability while building national capacity in climate-resilient farming systems and water-efficient practices. Moreover, the project emphasizes fostering partnerships between research institutions, farmers, and private sector actors to ensure the long-term adoption and scaling of successful practices.

By diversifying production systems and improving water productivity, this initiative is aligned with Iran’s broader strategy to adapt its agricultural sector to the shifting climatic conditions. It aims to secure food and nutrition safety for future generations, thereby reinforcing the importance of sustainable agricultural practices in the face of climate change.

Ultimately, the FAO’s Regional Technical Cooperation Project not only addresses immediate agricultural challenges but also lays the groundwork for a resilient agricultural future in Iran and the surrounding region. Through innovative strategies and collaborative efforts, the project promises to enhance food security and promote sustainable agricultural development across the region.