Exempting Flour Industry from Power Cuts Vital for Food Security

The flour industry, a vital pillar in the country’s food supply chain, plays an essential role in food security and economic stability. However, it currently faces multiple challenges including frequent power and water outages, outdated equipment, lack of investment, liquidity shortages, and financial policy issues. These problems threaten both the quality and continuity of flour production.

Engineer Haji Aghazadeh, CEO of Golden Flour Parand, emphasized the urgent need for the industry to be exempted from water and electricity cuts. He noted that recent prolonged water shortages and weekly 45-hour power outages have severely disrupted production and affected product quality. Despite numerous communications with authorities, a stable water supply has not been secured.

He also highlighted financial difficulties due to delayed payments and limited access to low-interest loans for upgrading machinery and improving production efficiency. On a positive note, the quality of wheat in Tehran province is currently acceptable, and efforts are ongoing to meet the demands of millers.

Reflecting on past resilience, the factory successfully maintained flour supply during the recent 12-day war crisis through strong coordination with regional grain authorities. The CEO called for removing restrictive regulations on the flour industry to foster competition and development, benefiting both the sector and the country.