War-torn Iran says it has discovered more than 7.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas in southern Fars province, with about 5.7 trillion cubic feet estimated to be recoverable.

The announcement comes as Tehran faces growing pressure over its ability to export oil.

Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad announced Sunday the discovery of a major natural gas deposit in Fars province, describing it as a significant addition to the country’s national wealth.

The field contains more than 7.5 trillion cubic feet of gas, according to Paknejad. Based on an estimated recovery rate of more than 72%, around 5.7 trillion cubic feet could ultimately be extracted.

Paknejad said the deposit has an important advantage: the gas is classified as “sweet gas”, meaning it contains relatively low levels of sulphur compounds.

“Because the gas is sweet, it helps bring down both development costs and the costs of production and operation,” the minister said.

Iranian authorities did not immediately identify the newly discovered field or provide details on when commercial production could begin.

The discovery comes as Tehran seeks to strengthen its domestic energy resources and expand its ability to meet future gas demand.