Chinese Guide to Iranian Medicinal Plants

Chinese Guide to Iranian Medicinal Plants

A Guide for Chinese Importers to Purchase Iranian Medicinal Plants ( Chinese Guide to Iranian Medicinal Plants )

Iran is one of the leading countries in the production of medicinal plants, cultivating more than 450 species and exporting them to various countries. Over time, the demand for Iranian medicinal plants has increased due to their numerous properties and applications.

In 2003, Iran ranked fifth globally in medicinal plant exports, but due to certain challenges, its ranking has now dropped to 32. This guide provides useful information for Chinese importers seeking to purchase Iranian medicinal plants.

Click here to view and purchase various medicinal plants

In Which Seasons Are Medicinal Plants Harvested?

Medicinal plants play a crucial role in traditional medicine, disease treatment, and health maintenance, which is why many countries seek to import them. One of the most important aspects of their production is the harvesting season. Below is a classification of medicinal plants according to their harvest time :

Iran’s Capacity in Medicinal Plants

• High biodiversity : Over 8,000 plant species, with ~2,500 medicinal ones.

• Excellent quality : Unique climate and fertile soil increase active compounds.

• High-demand products : Saffron, dried damask rose , licorice, cumin, asafoetida , thyme.

• Global position : Top producer of saffron and asafoetida, and a major supplier of licorice.

Advantages of Importing Iranian Medicinal Plants for China

• Meeting high TCM demand : Many Iranian plants are directly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

• Competitive prices : Lower production costs compared to many countries.

• Available in multiple forms : Raw, dried, extracts, essential oils, and plant oils.

• High export standards : Especially for saffron and rose water.

Packaging of Medicinal Plants for Export

Proper packaging protects medicinal plants from contamination, physical damage, and light exposure. International standards (ISO, FDA, PDA) regulate packaging and storage.

Key points include :

• Protective packaging : Must withstand transport, leakage, and tampering.

• Material compatibility : Packaging should not release harmful substances and must comply with health and environmental regulations.

• Trade relationship value : High-quality packaging enhances trust and long-term trade partnerships, especially with Chinese companies.

Role of Organic and HACCP Certifications

HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) and organic certifications are vital throughout the production chain—planting, harvesting, packaging, processing, and distribution. They minimize risks, lower quality-related costs, support ISO compliance, and improve trust with Chinese importers.

Cooperation and Trade with Chinese Importers

China is one of the largest consumers of medicinal plants. Iran exports a wide range of species there, many of which are not domestically significant in Iran but are in demand in China. The website IRCOACH.IR lists over 100 industrial and trade bodies to facilitate such imports and exports.

Steps for Chinese Importers to Purchase Iranian Medicinal Plants

1. Identify reliable suppliers with international export experience.

2. Request samples and conduct quality tests (active compounds, heavy metals, pesticide residues).

3. Negotiate price and payment terms (LC, bank transfer, or installment payments).

4. Sign a formal contract specifying product type, quality, delivery schedule, and customs conditions.

5. Use moisture- and heat-resistant packaging for shipping.

6. Prepare export documents (invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, health certificate).

7. Clear customs in China and register products with import authorities.

Potential Challenges

• Currency exchange fluctuations in Iran.

• Banking issues and international sanctions.

• Quality variations among small suppliers.

• Transportation and logistics limitations.

• Strict Chinese regulations for herbal medicines.

Practical Suggestions for Success

• Work with reputable Iranian exporters instead of buying directly from farmers.

• Focus on plants with strong overlap with TCM (e.g., licorice, asafoetida).

• Conduct independent lab tests in China before large-scale imports.

• Establish long-term supply contracts for stable prices and quality.

• Consider joint investment in processing and packaging within Iran.

Key Factors for Sustainable Trade Relations with Chinese Importers

Compliance with contracts, ISO, HACCP, and organic standards ensures stable long-term trade. Product quality and packaging directly affect business success and importer satisfaction.

Export Rules and Requirements from Iran to China

• Export license from Iran’s Ministry of Agriculture.

• Phytosanitary Certificate : To prevent plant contamination.

• Quality and standard certificates : Especially for sensitive products like saffron.

• Compliance with Chinese import laws : Including brand registration and approvals from CFDA and GACC.

• Bilingual labeling : Persian–Chinese or English–Chinese.

Conclusion

Iran is a leading producer of medicinal plants, cultivating about 400,000 tons annually. China remains the largest importer, with growing demand. Each stage of cultivation, harvest, processing, and distribution must comply with international health and quality standards to secure sustainable trade. For more details on exports and connections with Chinese importers, contact us directly.