Iran’s export associations issue 10-point plan to safeguard non-oil exports

Iran’s export associations have issued a 10-point statement calling for measures to protect non-oil exports, stabilize trade policies, ease financial and customs procedures and strengthen the role of the private sector in economic decision-making amid sanctions, financial restrictions and maritime trade disruptions.

The statement was released at the National Conference of Export Associations, held at the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, and outlined priorities for maintaining export markets, meeting contractual obligations and improving the resilience of the country’s foreign trade. The statement said non-oil exports were essential not only for supplying foreign currency but also for sustaining production, preserving employment, supporting businesses and strengthening the national economy. It stressed that safeguarding export capacity required coordinated, long-term policies rather than temporary measures. The first priority was to maintain export flows and protect Iran’s commercial credibility by developing operational plans to manage trade disruptions, rising transport and insurance costs, and difficulties in transferring funds. The associations also called for greater stability and predictability in economic and trade policies, urging authorities to avoid sudden regulatory changes and involve specialized trade associations before adopting rules affecting exporters. Where urgent decisions were unavoidable, transparent communication and measures to limit damage to existing contracts were needed, the statement said. On financial issues, the statement called for a review of foreign-currency obligations, faster resolution of related cases and the development of transparent, legal mechanisms for financing and settling export transactions. It also urged the diversification of transport routes and improvements to port, rail, road, warehousing and border infrastructure to reduce vulnerability to geopolitical risks and maritime disruptions. Another priority was expanding economic diplomacy and targeting new export markets through better market intelligence, stronger links between exporters and foreign buyers, and more effective use of trade agreements, particularly with neighboring countries and regional markets. The statement called for export associations to play a more active and organized role in policymaking, implementing export development programs and evaluating their results. It also urged authorities to reduce transaction costs through electronic services, streamlined procedures, fewer unnecessary permits and improved coordination among government agencies. To strengthen competitiveness, the associations advocated higher-value-added exports, improved product quality and productivity, greater technological capacity and more reliable supplies of energy and production inputs. They said timely deliveries were essential to maintaining the confidence of foreign customers. The plan also called for expanded export insurance and guarantees, improved access to working capital and financing tailored to exporters’ needs, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.