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Abstract
Iran's economy is growing rapidly, exceeding 14 percent in both 1971/72 and 1972/73. Increasing oil production dominates export revenue. Agriculture's share of GNP continues to decline but it still employs the largest share of the labor force. Agricultural exports comprise about 7 percent of total exports and consist mainly of cotton, fruits and nuts, and hides and skins. Major agricultural imports are cereals, especially wheat, fats and oils, sugar, tea, and dairy products. Wheat is the most important food grain. Production fluctuates substantially from year to year depending on the weather and Iran may be either self-sufficient or in need of imports. On occasion, wheat has even been exported. The growth of the livestock sector has been slow, due mainly to severe winters and lack of feed. The land reform program, begun in 1962, is now substantially completed and is expected to stimulate agricultural development. Expanded irrigation facilities and increased productivity are major goals of agricultural development. In addition, efforts are being made to improve Iran's marketing and distribution systems.