Iran Urges Stronger Economic Mobilization to Expand Trade Ties With Japan

TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking at the event, ICCIMA Vice President Payam Bagheri emphasized that the current level of trade between Iran and Japan does not reflect the long-standing diplomatic and cultural relationship shared by the two nations.

“Today more than ever, we need to deepen our international ties. Iran and Japan have nearly a century of formal relations and share many affinities,” Bagheri said. He noted that Iran has significant competitive advantages in sectors such as energy, mining, medical equipment, tourism, handicrafts, and carpet production.

However, he acknowledged that obstacles—particularly those outside the private sector’s control—have hampered growth. “Strengthening this relationship requires mobilizing all arms of the national economy, especially government institutions, to create a favorable environment for private enterprise,” he added.

Bahram Shakouri, Vice President of the Iran–Japan Joint Chamber of Commerce, pointed out that bilateral trade has continued without interruption for over three decades, despite political shifts. He expressed hope that with Japan’s interest in Iran, relations could expand further.

“If the profiteers of sanctions allow, Japan can meet a large share of our technological needs and serve as a key market for Iranian exports,” Shakouri said. He also highlighted the role of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in facilitating collaboration, particularly in bringing modern technologies to Iranian SMEs.

Board member Kamyar Montaser praised Japan’s ability to preserve its traditions while embracing modernity, describing it as a model that offers valuable lessons for Iran.

Meanwhile, fellow board member Hamidreza Nabizadeh reflected on Japan’s post–World War II recovery, crediting its “developmental bureaucratic state” for prioritizing expertise, empowering the private sector, and promoting exports. He lamented that Iran had failed to build deep commercial links with Japan, making trade relations vulnerable to external shocks.

Former Iranian ambassador to Japan Morteza Rahmani-Movahhed noted that trade volumes between the two countries have dwindled to around $100 million since the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal—“a disappointing figure,” he said.

Rahmani highlighted that 97 percent of Japan’s economy is driven by SMEs, with strong government support. He suggested focusing on areas outside the reach of international sanctions, including environmental protection, healthcare, sports, IT, and tourism.

“Japanese companies never fully shut down their offices in Iran, nor abandoned their presence here,” he observed. “If we create a platform for technology and knowledge transfer, with Iranian investors, traders, and engineering firms at the table, Japanese companies will be willing to join. This way, when restrictions ease, cooperation can quickly accelerate.” “Expand Trade”

Ali Masoudi, head of ICCIMA’s ICT Commission, underscored the need for joint training programs and technology-sharing initiatives with Japan. He stressed that while sanctions complicate formal cooperation, determined entrepreneurs will continue to find channels for trade.

“Japan is a global leader in technology. With careful planning for joint events and training courses, we can strengthen cooperation in equipment supply and services,” Masoudi said. “Iran–Japan political relations have always been positive, and businesses on both sides are creative in finding ways to sustain partnerships.” “Expand Trade”

Participants at the Sakura Summit agreed that Iran must take proactive steps to overcome barriers to international commerce. Establishing a business platform between Iran and Japan was widely viewed as a practical first step to deepen engagement, foster trust, and prepare the ground for expanded trade once financial and political constraints ease. “Expand Trade”

The summit concluded with calls for Iran’s government and private sector to work hand in hand, ensuring that the country’s untapped potential—particularly in technology partnerships and SME cooperation—can be realized in its relationship with Japan.