An Iranian company plans to create 500 jobs for women in the Tajik southern province of Khatlon at a fruit processing facility.  This was announced by Mahdi Asadullahpour, a representative of the Iranian company Almas-Nerou, during a meeting with Khatlon governor, Davlatali Said, according to Khatlon governor’s office.

The meeting, held on November 19 in Khatlon’s capital, Bokhtar, with other Iranian entrepreneurs in attendance, focused on the region’s opportunities and business environment, particularly in the agrarian sector.

Asadullahpour reportedly expressed the company’s interest in establishing a facility to produce juices and dried fruits.

“We are interested in processing apples, as the climate in Khatlon, according to our research, is ideal for growing high-quality apples and other fruits.  Our enterprise produces seven types of products, and we plan to provide employment for 500 local women,” said the Iranian businessman.

Davlatali Said, for his part, reportedly noted that the area of orchards in Khatlon currently spans 45,000 hectares, and local farmers are capable of supplying the company with the necessary fruit volume.

Discussions with other Iranian entrepreneurs reportedly touched on potential cooperation in dentistry, non-ferrous metals, and agriculture.