Iran, Armenia Chambers of Commerce Establish Direct Communication Mechanism

TEHRAN (Iran News) The mechanism is designed to enable timely and comprehensive exchange of economic and trade information between the business communities of the two neighboring countries.

Bahraman emphasized that Armenia can be a close partner for Iran, pointing to the shared history and mutual understanding between the nations. He said proposals made by Armenian officials reflect a strong willingness to enhance economic cooperation.

“We see a bright future, and that is why we are investing,” Bahraman noted, adding that Iran has a wide range of products that can be exported to Armenia. He acknowledged that some Iranian producers have not always honored commitments in the past but stressed that closer cooperation between the chambers could help address such challenges.

The Iranian vice president welcomed proposals for greater collaboration and expressed readiness to pursue large-scale joint projects with Armenian partners, including accessing wider regional markets. He described Iran as a wealthy nation with favorable geographic conditions that can serve as an attractive destination for investment.

“Trust is the foundation of trade and economic cooperation,” Bahraman said, inviting the Armenian delegation to visit different Iranian cities to gain first-hand insight into the country’s industrial and production capacities.

Ivanov, in turn, highlighted the importance of strengthening ties, stressing that permanent trade exhibitions could significantly boost bilateral business relations. He noted that despite cultural closeness and mutual trust, the two chambers currently lack sufficient access to each other’s economic data. Establishing a continuous channel of communication, he said, would benefit both sides.

The Armenian deputy also raised concerns about transit challenges faced by Armenian trucks using Iranian routes to reach Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. He explained that delays in customs procedures, often due to limited or slow information exchange, hinder transport efficiency. Closer cooperation, he argued, would allow Armenia to better utilize Iran’s transit capacities and expedite shipments.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both chambers agreed to set up a direct communication mechanism and appointed representatives to oversee its implementation.

Meanwhile later in another meeting, Bahraman proposed the establishment of a joint committee between Iran and Armenia aimed at strengthening border and customs cooperation and streamlining the issuance of certificates of origin.

Bahraman met with the Deputy Chairman of Armenia’s State Revenue Committee, where he highlighted the importance of accelerating cross-border procedures and addressing challenges related to certificate issuance under the free trade agreement between Iran and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

Bahraman suggested forming a four-party joint committee comprising the chambers of commerce and customs authorities of both countries to resolve issues concerning certificates of origin as well as other customs and border-related matters. Such meetings, he said, would also allow Iran to become familiar with Armenia’s border investment initiatives and, if needed, design corresponding measures on the Iranian side.

He underlined that strengthening bilateral ties is essential, as Armenia provides Iran with access to Eurasian markets. “Any transparency in border matters benefits both Iranian and Armenian traders,” Bahraman stressed, adding that Iran opposes unlawful practices and welcomes measures that enhance clarity.

“Resolving the problems faced by economic actors is our priority,” he noted. “Strengthening private sector relations between both sides is the goal we are pursuing, and addressing border issues is a key element of expanding economic cooperation.”

Bahraman invited the Armenian delegation to visit Iran to explore business opportunities and participate in joint events, describing Armenia’s investments in its border region as beneficial to trade flows between the two countries.”Communication Mechanism”

Hamed Asgari, Deputy for International Affairs at the Iran Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of utilizing the Green Corridor mechanism—particularly for the transfer of perishable goods—following Iran’s accession to the EAEU. He underscored the need to establish the required infrastructure to enable this, calling it a priority for Iranian traders.

Asgari noted that Armenia’s customs system is already digitized, which could accelerate data exchange and facilitate the electronic issuance of certificates of origin. “It is essential that documentation in this area be processed on digital platforms,” he said. He added that the proposed joint committee could provide a structured framework for addressing potential disputes and further developing cooperation.

Rafael Ghurkian, Deputy Chairman of Armenia’s State Revenue Committee, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Iran. “Relations between the two countries are expanding daily, and the increased level of cooperation at the border is proof of that,” he said.

He pointed out that Armenia has increased investment in border infrastructure and is working to ease the flow of goods and people. He also noted that a recent tender for the construction of a border road was won by an Iranian company, which he described as encouraging.

“Facilitating border control will be tangible for Iranian traders,” Ghurkian remarked, adding that both legal and infrastructural changes are expected to take effect in 2025. He stressed, however, that Armenia would strictly prevent illegal or unauthorized crossings.”Communication Mechanism”

Ghurkian expressed optimism that these measures would further strengthen bilateral cooperation and help expand economic relations.