Ahvaz Proposes Joint Innovation and AI Center With Japan

TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking during the Japanese ambassador’s visit to Khuzestan and in a meeting with senior economic officials, Shahla Amouri said that a strategic cooperation roadmap has been prepared, based on five key areas exempt from sanctions due to their technical, educational, and infrastructural nature.

Amouri highlighted the long-standing commercial relations between Iran and Japan, built on “respect and mutual trust,” noting that this foundation provides strong support for expanding future cooperation.

The Ahvaz Chamber president stated that Khuzestan can utilize Japanese expertise to develop industrial waste management programs and water recycling projects, with Japanese specialists contributing to their technical implementation.

She added that establishing a joint innovation center at the Chamber’s headquarters—focused on artificial intelligence, digital trade, and industrial efficiency—would support skilled workforce development, facilitate technology transfer, and strengthen the competitive edge of Khuzestan’s export-oriented industries.

With a large fleet of Japanese-made machinery already in the province, Amouri said that localizing supply of original spare parts and specialized maintenance services could create a “low-risk market, sheltered from sanctions.”

She further noted that agriculture and food industries present key opportunities, adding that joint investment in greenhouse farming, water-efficient technologies, and low-consumption crop development could enhance product quality and reduce waste.

Regarding logistics, Amouri underlined the importance of using the Arvand Free Zone and Imam Khomeini Port to facilitate Japan’s regional transit operations—especially to maintain access to Gulf markets—calling it a “strategic step” in expanding bilateral ties.

The proposal also includes the creation of a trade intermediary company (SPV) in a third country, enabling barter trade between Khuzestan goods and Japanese equipment while reducing reliance on formal banking systems.

Amouri concluded that these five pillars define the current framework for economic collaboration between Khuzestan and Japan and can lay the foundation for sustainable, effective joint development.