Iran Turkey trade gains momentum as both countries aim to increase bilateral commerce and strengthen economic cooperation. Iranian and Turkish officials recently met to discuss trade growth, infrastructure, and investment opportunities.
During a meeting in Turkey, Iran’s Minister of Industry, Mining, and Trade, Seyed Mohammad Atabak, emphasized removing obstacles that limit Tehran-Ankara trade relations. He announced a $2 billion increase in trade next year, targeting a total of $10 billion.
Omar Bulat, Turkey’s Minister of Trade, highlighted a five percent trade growth this year, bringing the total value to $8 billion. He stressed that Turkey is committed to boosting trade with Iran based on historical and neighborly ties.
Officials focused on improving transport and logistics, particularly rail connectivity. Iran’s Railway CEO, Jabbar-Ali Zakari, highlighted the role of rail transport in reaching a $30 billion trade goal set by both countries’ presidents. They discussed facilitating Turkish freight wagons through Iran and enhancing cross-border rail efficiency.
Both sides also emphasized regional cooperation to strengthen transit routes linking West Asia and Eurasia. Zakari underlined the need for continuous monitoring of freight wagons to increase transparency.
Earlier talks in Tehran focused on tariff reforms to unlock trade potential. Hamed Asgari, deputy of ICCIMA, noted the current trade level is unsatisfactory. He stressed the potential to raise trade to $15-$20 billion annually by addressing tariff barriers and bureaucratic delays.
Iran’s exports to Turkey, valued at $6.8 billion last year, and Turkey’s exports to Iran, valued at $12.4 billion, show a growing economic relationship. Both sides aim to enhance private sector cooperation, particularly in steel, petrochemicals, and energy.
Discussions also covered the establishment of a joint free trade zone and resolving long-delayed investment projects in Iran’s free zones. Officials highlighted the importance of fast approvals and investor satisfaction to attract new investments.
Transport cooperation remains a strategic priority. Iranian and Turkish deputy transport ministers stressed infrastructure improvements across road, rail, maritime, and air networks. Expanding border crossings, railway connectivity, and flights are key steps to support rising trade volumes.
In the agricultural sector, Iran’s Minister of Agriculture Gholamreza Nouri Qezeljeh led a delegation to Turkey to address trade barriers and boost food exports. Modernizing packaging, streamlining export licenses, and stabilizing customs regulations were key recommendations.
Experts believe Iran Turkey trade growth can significantly benefit regional connectivity and economic development. Future meetings are planned to ensure practical solutions, increased cargo capacity, and enhanced private sector collaboration.