Central Asia’s Growing Demand for Technical Services

TEHRAN (Iran News) In an interview with ILNA, Najafi Arab highlighted Central Asian nations as a key market for Iran’s technical and engineering service exports. “These countries are rebuilding after the Soviet Union’s collapse and are investing heavily in infrastructure—roads, railways, dams, and more. This presents a golden opportunity for Iran,” he said. He noted that Iranian companies, recognized among the world’s top technical service providers, are well-positioned to compete globally but face challenges that require government intervention. “If these obstacles are addressed, Iran could significantly expand its presence in Central Asia,” he added, acknowledging that Iranian firms are already active in the region, though their footprint could grow stronger.

Najafi Arab praised the Ministry of Economy’s recent move to provide bank guarantees for Iranian operations in Iraq, calling it an effective solution. He suggested that tapping into Iran’s financial reserves in Iraq and Qatar could similarly resolve guarantee-related hurdles, facilitating smoother international contracts.

He underscored the broader importance of exporting technical and engineering services, describing them as a cornerstone of Iran’s export strategy. “These services drive significant value, primarily through the expertise of our workforce,” he explained. Unlike traditional goods, technical services rely on intellectual capital, aligning with global trends toward knowledge-based economies where labor’s value-added share is high. “The world is shifting toward brain-driven products and services, and Iran’s technical sector exemplifies this,” he said.

Najafi Arab also outlined the practical benefits of such exports. When an Iranian company secures an overseas project, it brings its workforce and materials from Iran, boosting domestic employment and production. Equipment acquired abroad is later repatriated, enhancing Iran’s internal infrastructure development.

As Central Asia ramps up its demand for technical expertise, Iran’s ability to overcome financial and logistical barriers could cement its role as a regional leader in this high-value sector, potentially reshaping its economic influence beyond its borders.