Direct Iran–FATF Talks Rekindling Hope for Businesses

TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking at a meeting of the Chamber’s Board of Representatives, Samad Hassanzadeh congratulated Iran’s business associations, unions, and federations on the occasion of National Day of Associations and Social Participation. He underlined the importance of strengthening the role of trade bodies in shaping national economic policy.

Hassanzadeh announced that elections for the heads and deputies of the Chamber’s 20 specialized commissions would be held on August 17 and 18. These commissions, he said, had become effective advisory arms in recent years, contributing through expert panels, conferences, research partnerships, and collaboration with government agencies.

Turning to the economy, Hassanzadeh noted that the latest Shamkh index – an indicator of business activity – showed early signs of recovery in the country’s production sector. However, he stressed that more decisive measures were needed to move beyond stagnation and achieve sustained growth. “Iran–FATF ”

He also pointed to the results of the National Business Environment Survey for spring 2025, which revealed modest improvement compared with late 2024. Still, challenges remain, particularly in unpredictable regulations, raw material price fluctuations, and difficulties in accessing bank financing.

Hassanzadeh urged policymakers to prioritize support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up 90 percent of Iran’s industrial units, employ more than 60 percent of the industrial workforce, and account for nearly 30 percent of non-oil GDP. He argued that SMEs face barriers to financing and bargaining power, calling for targeted support in banking, taxation, customs, and social security.

On the international front, the Chamber chief hailed the resumption of direct talks between Iran and FATF, saying the move could strengthen global confidence in Iran’s financial transparency. He suggested that Iran’s approval of the CFT (Combating the Financing of Terrorism convention) as a complement to the Palermo Convention would mark another step toward improving economic engagement with the world.

Reiterating the Chamber’s position on foreign policy, Hassanzadeh said the institution supports international negotiations and de-escalation efforts, provided they safeguard national interests and security. He warned, however, that Iranian society and businesses must remain vigilant against “psychological operations” orchestrated by adversaries, particularly Israel, which he accused of trying to sow insecurity even during periods of relative calm.”Iran–FATF ”

Highlighting the strategic importance of regional economic connectivity, he noted that stronger geo-economic networks and cross-border cooperation would enhance Iran’s long-term security and prosperity.

“Once again, we stress that one of the best paths out of the country’s current conditions is reliance on economic diplomacy led by the private sector,” Hassanzadeh concluded, reaffirming the Chamber’s readiness to work closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He began his remarks by offering condolences over the recent passing of Mohammadreza Bahrami, a member of the Chamber’s board and vice president of the Kerman Chamber of Commerce, praising him as a dedicated and noble figure in Iran’s business community.