Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said that the three branches of the Iranian government should facilitate investment for production by ensuring capital security in Iran.

TEHRAN - The head of Iran’s Planning and Budget Organization announced the launch of two comprehensive national programs titled "Investment for Production" and "Countering Sanctions," aimed at supporting the country's development and addressing current economic challenges.

TEHRAN - Iran's Shipping Association Secretary, Masoud Palmeh, expressed skepticism about India’s promised $220 million investment in Chabahar Port, stating that reports suggest India has only invested around $25 million to $80 million in the port. He stressed that it’s hard to believe even the lower figure of $25 million, as significant improvements in the port are not visible.

TEHRAN - Iran has lost its former status as Afghanistan’s top trading partner, slipping to fifth place due to an imbalance in trade and growing frustration on the Afghan side over Iran’s lack of interest in Afghan goods. This is according to Alireza Khamehzar, head of the South Khorasan Chamber of Commerce, who emphasized the urgent need to revise Iran’s import regulations, especially regarding agricultural products from Afghanistan.

TEHRAN - In a significant move aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, Iran and Turkmenistan have reached an agreement to launch a trial passenger train service and increase cargo capacity to 400 wagons. The announcement was made by the Iranian Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, upon her return from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

TEHRAN - Iran is set to bolster its maritime trade links with West and Southwest Africa, following a decision by the Africa Committee chaired by the First Vice President, according to Mohammadreza Safari, Acting Director General for Africa at Iran’s Trade Promotion Organization (TPO). This move aims to enhance Iran’s economic footprint on the continent, building on existing shipping routes and trade relationships.

TEHRAN - Oil Minister, Mohsen Paknejad, has described the burning of flare gas as a waste of the country’s natural resources, emphasizing that efforts are underway to address this issue through short- and long-term projects.

TEHRAN - The Iran Steel Producers Association has released data on the country’s steel production for the first 11 months of the Iranian year 1403 (March 21, 2024 – February 19, 2025), reporting a 6.7% decline attributed to ongoing imbalances in the industry.

TEHRAN - The Deputy for International Affairs of the Karaj Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture, Seyed Reza Seyed Aghazadeh, announced the successful hosting of a webinar introducing over 100 investment opportunities in Alborz Province to Chinese investors. The event, attended by representatives from more than 40 Chinese companies, economic officials, and Iran’s consulate in China, marks a significant step toward showcasing Alborz’s potential and attracting foreign investment across diverse economic sectors.

TEHRAN - The Statistical Center of Iran has released the latest producer inflation figures for the month of Bahman (January 21 – February 19, 2025), reporting a monthly inflation rate of 8.4% and a point-to-point inflation rate of 46.5% compared to Bahman of the previous year.