Ban on Iranian Pistachios Benefits California Farmers

According to report by the Associated Press on September 29, 2010, a ban on Iranian pistachios will greatly benefit California pistachio farmers.  President Obama signed a ban on July 1, 2010 as a result of Iran’s nuclear policies. For years, the United States and Iran have been competing for the title of top pistachio producer. This ban is great news to California farmers who grow more than 95% of pistachios in the United States.

In addition to the already established European market, California pistachio producers now have better opportunity in the Asian market. The domestic market, which is worth over $700 million will also be exclusive to U.S pistachio producers.

Pistachios grown in the United States will be packed under various labels and shipped out all over the world. Usually two-thirds of the U.S. crop is sold overseas, and the USDA expects exports to increase 10%  this year. This year, farmers will grow more than 360 million pounds of pistachios and it is expected that by 2017 production will double.