Iran-Russia Treaty: Boosting Bilateral Trade for Economic Growth
In a recent interview with Mehr News Agency at the 7th Export Potential Exhibition of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Rasoul Mosayyebi, the CEO of the Iran Trade Center in Russia, discussed the promising potential for enhancing bilateral trade between Iran and Russia. This collaboration aims to significantly improve trade and economic exchanges, which have historically been low.
Mosayyebi highlighted that the Iranian government, in partnership with the Trade Promotion Organization of Iran (TPOI), has taken substantial steps to establish the Iran Trade Center in Russia. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen trade relations and ensure compliance with international rules and regulations.
“As far as Iran-Russia trade relations are concerned, the annual trade turnover between the two countries was less than $1 billion over the past years,” he noted. However, he revealed that Iran’s exports to Russia saw a remarkable increase, reaching approximately $2.7 billion in 2023.
Despite the sanctions imposed on Iran, Mosayyebi asserted that these measures have not hindered trade between the two nations. Instead, he believes that sanctions have opened up new avenues for both countries to enhance their economic activities. He stated, “Sanctions have created more opportunities for the two countries to strengthen their trade and economic activities.”
Moreover, Mosayyebi discussed the Comprehensive 25-Year Strategic Partnership Agreement between Iran and Russia, which is set to commence on May 15, 2025. This agreement aims to eliminate customs tariffs between the two countries, which have historically posed challenges for Iranian exports.
- The high tariff rates imposed by Russia on imported goods have complicated Iran’s access to the lucrative Russian market.
- These tariffs have particularly hindered Iran’s ability to compete with international rivals like China and Turkey, where a 35% tariff rate on imports is common.
Mosayyebi emphasized that the implementation of the Comprehensive Iran-Russia Strategic Partnership Treaty will significantly enhance trade prospects with the Russian Federation, particularly within the context of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) markets. He asserted, “The implementation of the strategic partnership agreement between Iran and Russia will bring about a golden opportunity for the two countries to enhance bilateral trade to a great extent.”
Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about the agreement’s impact on Iran’s exports to Russia. “After one year of implementation of the Comprehensive Iran-Russia Strategic Partnership Agreement, Iran’s exports to the Russian Federation will increase to $10 billion,” Mosayyebi predicted.
This outlook reflects a transformative period for Iran-Russia relations, driven by mutual cooperation and strategic initiatives aimed at overcoming past trade barriers. As both nations work towards maximizing their economic potential, the establishment of trade centers and favorable agreements will play a crucial role in fostering a robust trading environment.
In conclusion, the dialogue surrounding Iran and Russia’s trade relationship reveals a commitment to enhancing economic ties. With significant increases in export figures and the promise of reduced tariffs on the horizon, both countries are poised for a new chapter in their bilateral trade narrative.
Interview by: Morteza Ahmadi, Marzieh Rahmani
