Iran Leads Islamic Nations in Biotechnology Innovation, According to SCImago Rankings
In recent years, Iran has made significant strides in the field of biotechnology, achieving remarkable rankings among Islamic countries and globally. As of 2024, Iran proudly holds the title of the leading nation in biotechnology publications among Islamic countries, according to the latest SCImago report. This achievement underscores the country’s commitment to advancing scientific research and innovation.
According to the SCImago report, Iran published a total of 1,111 biotechnology documents in 2024, elevating its position from second place in 2023 to first among Islamic nations. In a global context, Iran ranks 11th in this vital field. Following Iran are Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Turkey, and Egypt, with respective publications of 1,008, 979, 839, and 802 articles.
The report also highlights a comprehensive analysis of articles published from 1996 to 2024. Over these 28 years, Iran has contributed 15,188 articles in biotechnology, placing it first in the region, while Turkey and Egypt follow with 10,973 and 7,947 articles, respectively. This positions Iran at 15th globally in cumulative biotechnology publications.
When considering all subject areas and categories, Iran ranks second regionally and 17th worldwide, with a total of 75,501 articles published in 2024. In the broader scope, Iran has published 966,118 articles across all disciplines from 1996 to 2024, which earns it the second position in the region and 19th globally.
Biotechnology’s Role in Sustainable Development Goals
Biotechnology is a critical scientific field that significantly contributes to achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). It is estimated that biotechnology holds a 60 percent share of the goals related to life sciences and their applications, both directly and indirectly. This is essential for promoting a healthier, sustainable, and equitable world.
Sustainable development aims to strike a balance between economic growth, social welfare, and environmental protection, ensuring that the needs of the present generation are met without compromising future resources. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, serves as a universal framework for fostering peace and prosperity for both people and the planet. At its core, the agenda comprises 17 sustainable development goals that call for urgent action from all countries, both developed and developing, in a collaborative global effort.
The goals emphasize that the eradication of poverty and other deprivations must be accompanied by strategies that enhance health and education, reduce inequality, and drive economic growth— all while addressing climate change and preserving our oceans and forests. Biotechnology presents innovative solutions to tackle environmental issues and elevate the quality of human life. Key applications include:
- Utilizing diagnostic kits for early disease detection
- Addressing environmental pollution
- Producing non-pesticide pest controls
- Creating effective and affordable medicines and vaccines
- Purifying contaminated water using bacteria to ensure safe drinking water
- Developing biodegradable and eco-friendly packaging
Achieving sustainable goals is not solely the responsibility of governments or corporations; individuals also play a vital role. Smart choices and changes in habits can lead to significant impacts. In laboratory settings, these choices include:
- Separating biological, chemical, and general waste
- Using recyclable and compostable laboratory kits and materials
- Implementing cellular or biocomputational methods instead of animal experiments
- Designing experiments with minimal raw materials and waste generation
In essence, sustainable development means living smarter, not harder, and taking small, actionable steps towards a brighter future.
Iran’s Biotechnology Exports
In the past Iranian year (from March 2024 to March 2025), Iran’s biotechnology sector successfully exported products to 35 countries, an increase from 33 countries the previous year. The pharmaceutical biotechnology industry alone saves approximately two billion dollars in foreign currency annually and accounts for 60 percent of the country’s pharmaceutical exports, as reported by Hossein Amirazodi, the secretary general of the association of pharmaceutical biotechnology producers and exporters.
Amirazodi made these remarks during the 4th International Conference and Exhibition on Iranian Medical Biotech Products and Related Industries (Iran Bio), held from February 4 to 6 at the Olympic Hotel in Tehran. Currently, Iran produces 40 out of 150 pharmaceutical biotechnology products manufactured globally, a milestone achieved over the past 30 years.
The Iran Bio conference aims to showcase the capabilities and potentials of the national biotechnology industries, facilitate information and technology transfer, enhance synergy among researchers and experts, and support domestic manufacturers by expanding market reach and export opportunities.
As Iran continues to lead in biotechnology research and applications, the country not only positions itself as a regional powerhouse but also contributes significantly to global scientific advancements.
