Limitations and Production Capacities of Field and Horticultural Crops in Iran

Planning for the agricultural sector requires identifying the limitations and capacities of field crops and horticultural production. Many studies in Iran have considered one or more dimensions of the agricultural sector; however, few studies have simultaneously examined the factors affecting the production of crops and horticultural products. For this study, data was gathered from 30 provinces in Iran during the period 2008-2016. First, PESTEL analysis variables were identified, and the I-Distance method was used to define the weight of each variable. Secondly, the PESTEL analysis dimensions were calculated by combining the variables of each index. Finally, the PESTEL analysis was combined with the econometric model of the spatial 3D panel. The resulting pattern was estimated by taking into account three dimensions, namely, time, province, and type of production (field and horticulture crops). The results showed that the indicator of environment is the most significant factor in the production of agricultural and horticultural products. Also, the investment factor and the supportive policies indicator are the most limiting factors in the production of field crops and horticultural products.