Iran Trade Overview: Imports, Exports, Key Partners, and Logistics Infrastructure

Iran Trade Overview: Imports, Exports, Key Partners, and Logistics Infrastructure

Iran, strategically located at the crossroads of Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, plays a vital role in regional and global trade. Despite facing international sanctions and economic challenges, Iran maintains a robust trade network, exporting a diverse range of products and importing essential goods from around the world.

In this blog, we’ll explore Iran’s trade ecosystem—including top trading countries, major import/export products, leading companies, shipping and air cargo services, and the most important ports.

? Iran’s Trade Snapshot

Iran’s economy is heavily reliant on oil and gas exports, but it also boasts strong sectors in agriculture, mining, petrochemicals, automotive, and textiles. The country imports machinery, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods to support its domestic industries and population.

? Top Trading Partners

Iran trades with a mix of Asian, European, and regional countries. Here are some of the most active partners:

? Top Export Destinations

China – Iran’s largest buyer of oil and petrochemicals

United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Re-export hub for Iranian goods

Iraq – Major importer of Iranian food, construction materials, and energy

Turkey – Strong bilateral trade in energy and industrial goods

Afghanistan – Imports Iranian cement, food, and fuel

? Top Import Sources

China – Machinery, electronics, and industrial components

Germany – Pharmaceuticals and medical equipment

India – Rice, tea, and industrial goods

South Korea – Automotive parts and electronics

Russia – Agricultural products and energy cooperation

? Major Export Products

Iran’s exports are diverse, with a strong emphasis on energy and raw materials:

Crude oil and natural gas

Petrochemicals (methanol, polyethylene, urea)

Fruits and nuts (pistachios, dates, saffron)

Cement and construction materials

Steel and minerals

Handicrafts and carpets

? Major Import Products

Iran imports goods to support its industrial base and consumer market:

Machinery and industrial equipment

Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies

Automotive parts and vehicles

Food products (rice, tea, cooking oil)

Electronics and mobile devices

? Leading Iranian Trade Companies

Several companies play a key role in facilitating Iran’s import/export operations:

IMIDRO – Iran’s largest mining and industrial development company

NIOC (National Iranian Oil Company) – Oversees oil exports

IKCO (Iran Khodro) – Automotive exports

MAPNA Group – Engineering and energy projects

Tehran Chamber of Commerce – Trade facilitation and business networking

? Shipping and Air Cargo Services

Iran’s logistics infrastructure includes both maritime and air cargo services to support international trade.

? Major Shipping Companies

IRISL Group (Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines) – Iran’s national shipping carrier

Valfajr Shipping Company – Regional maritime transport

HDS Lines – Container and bulk cargo services

✈️ Air Cargo Services

Iran Air Cargo – National airline’s cargo division

Mahan Air Cargo – Private airline offering international freight

Qeshm Air Cargo – Regional cargo services

⚓ Most Important Ports in Iran

Iran’s ports are vital gateways for trade, especially in the Persian Gulf and Caspian Sea regions:

Port of Bandar Abbas – Largest and busiest port, handling container and bulk cargo

Port of Imam Khomeini – Major oil and petrochemical export hub

Chabahar Port – Strategic port with access to the Indian Ocean, key for trade with India and Afghanistan

Bushehr Port – Regional trade and fishing exports

Bandar Anzali – Caspian Sea port for trade with Russia and Central Asia

? Final Thoughts

Iran’s trade landscape is dynamic and resilient, supported by a network of strategic partners, diverse products, and expanding logistics capabilities. Whether you’re a business looking to import goods, export Iranian products, or explore joint ventures, understanding the trade ecosystem is essential.

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