TEHRAN - Iran’s economy wrapped up the fiscal year 1403 (ending March 2025) in a state of recession, dashing hopes of a seasonal rebound typically seen in the lead-up to the Persian New Year. According to the latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data released by the Iran Chamber of Commerce’s Research Center, economic activity declined for the fourth consecutive month in March (Esfand), with major business indicators signaling a deeper contraction.

TEHRAN - Iran is currently facing serious water stress, but national food security will not be compromised if the country continues to implement its comprehensive water roadmap, said Isa Bozorgzadeh, spokesperson for the country’s water industry.

TEHRAN - In a high-level meeting held in Tehran, the President of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA) emphasized the private sector’s readiness to participate in Armenia’s infrastructure development projects. The discussion, held with Armenia’s Ambassador to Iran, also focused on strategies to elevate bilateral trade volume to $3 billion, with the active engagement of both nations' chambers of commerce.

TEHRAN - In a move that could significantly boost Iran’s trade presence in the Persian Gulf region, a senior member of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce announced plans for Bushehr and Dayyer ports to become central export hubs for trade with Arab countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

TEHRAN - Iran is moving forward with plans to establish joint free trade zones with neighboring countries, with Turkey being the top priority, according to Reza Masroor, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council of Free and Special Economic Zones. The move is part of a broader strategy to attract investment and boost regional economic integration.

TEHRAN – In a joint meeting between the Chambers of Commerce from Qazvin and Ilam and several Iraqi provinces, Iraqi representatives underscored their commitment to enhancing economic cooperation with Iran—particularly with Qazvin Province.

TEHRAN - With diplomatic efforts underway between Iran and Oman, former CEO of Iran’s Gas Export Company, Mehran Amirmaeini, stressed the urgent need for Iran to prepare specialized oil negotiation teams. He emphasized that if talks yield positive outcomes, the country must be ready to finalize contracts and launch projects swiftly.

Head of the Chamber of Commerce Samad Hassanzadeh said the indirect Iran-U.S. talks in Oman were a positive step for Iran's economy.

TEHRAN - China significantly increased its crude oil imports from Iran in March 2025, according to traders and analysts, amid rising concerns over potential new U.S. sanctions against Tehran.

TEHRAN - Iran has officially begun the implementation of a gas pressure-boosting project aimed at preventing the migration of natural gas from the South Pars gas field to Qatar. Experts say that with the resolution of international sanctions, Iran could become a major global gas producer and exporter.