Export of canned products

The canning industry is one of the key sectors in the food industry, thanks to its long shelf life, ease of transportation, and product diversity. These features have given canned goods a special place in global markets. Countries with strong agricultural, livestock, and fisheries capacities can achieve a significant share of the export market by processing these resources into canned products.

Iran, with its diverse climate, abundant natural resources, and skilled labor force, holds substantial potential for exporting canned goods. Iranian canned products have already been exported to neighboring countries as well as some Asian and European markets. However, there is still much room to expand these exports.

In this article, we explore the advantages of exporting canned products, the current export status in Iran, necessary processes and standards, target markets, challenges, and strategies to increase Iran’s share in the global canned food market.

In this regard, Marsat Zahabia Trading Company, with its experience and expertise in international trade, is ready to provide consulting, marketing, and logistics services for exporting canned products to Dubai and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The company offers a reliable and efficient route for entering these markets.

Advantages of Exporting Canned Products

Exporting canned products provides numerous benefits for both producers and the national economy, due to their unique characteristics. Below are the main advantages:

1. Long Shelf Life and Reduced Waste

Canned goods have a significantly longer shelf life compared to fresh products. This helps reduce waste—especially in agriculture—and allows the products to remain sellable in domestic and international markets for extended periods.

2. High Added Value

Processing raw materials into canned products significantly increases their economic value. This added value benefits exporters and strengthens the value chain in both agriculture and industry.

3. Easy Transportation

Canned goods do not require special storage conditions like refrigeration or freezing, which reduces transportation costs and facilitates export to distant or hot climate regions.

4. High Demand in International Markets

In many countries—especially those with high population densities or low food production—ready-to-eat products like canned goods are in high demand. This creates excellent opportunities for Iranian producers to maintain a stable presence in export markets.

5. Product Variety and Production Flexibility

Canned foods come in various forms (meat, chicken, fish, vegetables, legumes, etc.). This variety allows exporters to adapt their production according to the tastes and demands of target markets.

6. Job Creation and Growth of Processing Industries

The growth of canned food exports contributes to the development of processing industries, the creation of new job opportunities, and economic growth in production regions.

Current Status of Canned Food Exports in Iran

Iran, benefiting from rich agricultural resources and a developed food industry, has achieved a notable position in canned food exports in recent years. Reports indicate that about 20% of the country’s canned food production is exported to international markets.

Main Export Destinations

Iranian canned products are exported to many countries. The most important destinations include Iraq, Afghanistan, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Russia. Notably, Iraq is the largest export market, absorbing over 30% of Iran’s canned fish exports.

Challenges and Export Requirements

Despite numerous opportunities, exporting canned goods faces several challenges. These include:Compliance with health and packaging standards of destination countries, Currency exchange rate fluctuations, Issues with the repatriation of export revenues.

Export Process of Canned Products

Exporting canned foods involves several defined steps covering legal, technical, commercial, and logistical aspects. The key steps are as follows:

1.Identifying the Target Market

The first step is to identify a suitable market. Factors like consumer preferences, purchasing power, legal requirements, and demand help select the right market. For instance, Arab countries like Dubai—with their large migrant populations—offer excellent markets for Iranian canned goods.

2.Obtaining Necessary Permits

To export canned products, exporters must acquire: Health certificates, Standard certificates, Veterinary permits (if applicable), Approval from the Food and Drug Administration.

These documents verify product quality and safety and are also essential for customs clearance in the destination country.

3. Packaging and Labeling According to International Standards

Products must be packed in durable and appropriate containers, with labels in the language of the destination country (e.g., Arabic or English for the UAE). Labels should include: Ingredients, Production and expiration dates, Manufacturer name, Net weight, Storage instructions.

4.Signing Sales Contracts and Receiving Prepayments

Once a buyer is selected, a sales contract is signed, outlining terms of payment, transportation methods, standards, and responsibilities. Typically, part of the amount is received in advance.

5.Customs Procedures and Export Declaration

The exporter must register the export declaration in the Integrated Customs System and obtain customs clearance. Customs procedures involve document verification, weighing, and product inspection.

6.Selecting a Shipping Method and Dispatching the Goods

Based on the destination, delivery timeline, and product type, an appropriate shipping method (land, sea, air) is chosen. For exports to Dubai, sea freight in containers via southern Iranian ports like Bandar Abbas is common.

7.Marketing and After-Sales Services

Maintaining a long-term presence in export markets requires engaging with customers and gathering their feedback. Successful companies often have local representatives or collaborate with distribution companies in the target country.

Conclusion

Exporting canned food is a highly profitable economic opportunity for Iranian producers. It contributes to foreign exchange earnings, job creation, and the promotion of national branding. With the high quality of domestic production and the growing demand in regional markets for long-shelf-life food products, Iran can capture a greater share of global markets—especially in the Gulf region.

However, success in exports requires knowledge of legal procedures, international standards, proper packaging, and suitable transport routes. Leveraging the experience and consulting services of professional trading companies is essential for minimizing risks and increasing success rates.

Marsat Zahabia International Trading Company, specialized in import, export, and international logistics, is ready to provide consulting and operational support to producers and traders who wish to enter global markets with confidence. Contact our advisors today for a free consultation to grow or start your international business.