Iran and Tunisia Aim to Strengthen Trade Ties With Direct Flights

TEHRAN (Iran News) During a meeting with the Tunisian Ambassador to Iran, Samad Hassanzadeh highlighted the lack of sufficient information among traders about each other’s economic opportunities as a key barrier to expanding trade. He urged the Tunisian Embassy in Iran to provide updated information on Tunisia’s major economic needs and areas where Iran could fulfill these requirements. According to Hassanzadeh, such information would significantly contribute to fostering private sector collaboration between the two nations.

Hassanzadeh pointed out that the ICCIMA, with its extensive network of chambers across Iran’s 34 provinces, 20 specialized economic commissions, 49 joint chambers, and 250 economic organizations, is committed to enhancing foreign trade. He underscored that strengthening Iran’s international commercial relationships remains a priority for the chamber.

He also detailed the broad capabilities of Iranian private sector firms in various industries, including food processing, petrochemicals, steel, machinery, construction materials, engineering services, railway and tunnel construction, refinery projects, medical services, and agricultural equipment. He particularly stressed the potential for cooperation in greenhouse agriculture, health tourism, and university-level educational services.

Additionally, Hassanzadeh proposed joint production and investment ventures in heavy machinery and tractor manufacturing in Tunisia as a key area for collaboration. He reaffirmed ICCIMA’s commitment to facilitating trade delegations, promoting tourism, and developing economic cooperation to boost the bilateral trade volume.

Tunisian Ambassador to Iran, Imed Al-Rahmouni, echoed the sentiments of enhancing economic relations. He acknowledged that while political ties between Tunisia and Iran are strong, trade relations have yet to reach the same level. Strengthening commercial ties remains a top priority for the Tunisian Embassy in Iran.

The ambassador highlighted the recent visa exemption agreement between Iran and Tunisia, which could lead to increased tourism and business visits. However, he stressed that establishing a direct flight route between Tehran and Tunis is crucial for further enhancing bilateral trade and travel.

Al-Rahmouni also called for the reactivation of the Iran-Tunisia Joint Business Council, which has remained dormant for several years. He stated that efforts are underway to relaunch the council alongside the upcoming Iran-Tunisia Joint Economic Commission meeting. The primary goal is to create a more conducive environment for private sector engagement and investment.

The Tunisian envoy recognized Iran’s advanced capabilities in medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. He announced plans to bring a delegation of Tunisian businesspeople in these sectors to Iran to explore potential partnerships. The ambassador also emphasized the importance of joint investment in producing medications for cancer and cardiovascular diseases, noting that Iranian industries offer high-quality products at competitive prices.

Moreover, Al-Rahmouni noted that numerous trade agreements exist between Iran and Tunisia, but many have not been effectively implemented. He urged both governments to take necessary steps to activate these agreements and facilitate smoother trade transactions.

The ambassador also pointed out that Tunisia has free trade agreements with several African countries, presenting a significant opportunity for Iranian businesses to expand their market reach across the continent. By leveraging Tunisia’s trade networks, Iranian companies could gain a strategic advantage in entering African markets.

Both sides expressed optimism about the future of economic cooperation and committed to taking concrete steps to strengthen trade and investment between Iran and Tunisia. The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to prioritize the establishment of direct flights and the revival of the business council to accelerate commercial activities.