Why are sunflower seeds imported?

Why are sunflower seeds imported?

Despite the high production of sunflower seeds in the country, this popular product is imported in high volumes, which has a lower nutritional value than the domestic sample.
According to customs statistics, in the first six months of the year, more than 46,000 tons of sunflower seeds have entered Iran from several countries.
This amount of import of 65.1 million dollars has taken the currency out of the country and its Rial value has been registered more than 198 billion Tomans.
Mustafa Ahmadi, president of the Nuts and Dried Fruits Union, said: It is questionable to import products such as cashew nuts, which can not be produced domestically, but products such as sunflower seeds that are produced domestically are called oilseeds and for lubrication. It is imported into the country and can be seen in nut shops.