Iran orders tighter market oversight and raises strategic reserves

WASHINGTON, United States — TEHRAN — Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref has ordered tighter oversight of domestic markets, citing U.S. President Donald Trump's characterization of economic pressure as part of Washington's strategy. Aref told market monitoring units to act decisively against price increases, short-weight sales and the hoarding of goods, according to Mehr. Under the directive, Iran's Market Regulation Headquarters will begin issuing guidance and pursue legal action when violations continue. Officials did not specify which sectors or goods would be prioritized under the new oversight. Separately, Iran's agriculture minister announced that the ceiling on the country's strategic reserves has been raised. The minister said the buildup of reserves has allowed Iran to maintain supplies of essential goods through months of crisis and embargo pressure. A government media report said war, sanctions, currency volatility, drought and logistical disruptions have pushed food security to one of its toughest tests in recent decades over the past 14 months. Reserves and distribution networks, from animal supply to agricultural inputs and pricing, have come under serious strain, the report added.