Iran’s Strategic Gateway: Unlocking Economic Potential at Imam Khomeini Port
Imam Khomeini Port, located in the Khuzestan province of Iran, plays a vital role in the country’s maritime infrastructure. Strategically positioned within Mahshahr County on the northern coast of the Persian Gulf, this port is a significant hub for both domestic and international logistics.
Approximately 850 kilometers from Tehran and only 100 kilometers from Ahvaz, Imam Khomeini Port serves as a crucial access point for a variety of cargo types. The Port and Maritime Organization (PMO) emphasizes its importance for national economic development and its facilitation of international trade, particularly in bulk goods, petrochemicals, and containerized shipments.
Capabilities and Advantages of Imam Khomeini Port
Imam Khomeini Port boasts several key capabilities and advantages that enhance its position as a logistics center:
- Multimodal Connectivity: The port provides direct access to the national railway system and major transit routes, which allows for seamless cargo movement throughout Iran and into neighboring countries. Its close proximity to Mahshahr airport further optimizes logistical efficiency.
- Special Economic and Industrial Zones: The port is located near Iran’s largest petrochemical industry special economic zone and the Arvand Free Industrial & Trade Zone. This geographical advantage supports robust industrial and commercial activities.
- Regional and International Trade Hub: Imam Khomeini Port is strategically positioned on essential transit corridors that link Southeast Asia, the Persian Gulf, Iraq, Turkey, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Eastern Europe to Europe. This makes it a pivotal gateway for both regional and international trade.
Port Infrastructure and Capacity
Imam Khomeini Port is equipped with advanced infrastructure capable of accommodating vessels weighing up to 150,000 tons. Key features include:
- A dedicated container terminal with an annual capacity of around 700,000 TEUs.
- The largest grain terminal in Iran by transaction volume, featuring cutting-edge machinery and technology for efficient operations.
Diverse Cargo Handling
The port excels in providing comprehensive cargo services, which include:
- Loading and unloading of liquid and dry bulk cargos.
- Handling of petrochemical products and minerals.
- Management of general and containerized cargos.
Imam Khomeini Port has specialized terminals that cater to containerized goods and grains, featuring facilities such as:
- Cargo stowage
- Grain silos
- Storage tanks for liquid bulk and petrochemical products
Notably, the port accounts for 34% of Iran’s total transit cargo, making it a major transit point for goods traveling between Iran and its neighboring countries in Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe. Its integration with national rail and road networks further enhances its role as a logistics and distribution center.
Investment Opportunities
Imam Khomeini Port presents substantial potential for investment across various sectors, including:
- Factory construction
- Power plants
- Warehouses
- Storage facilities
- Service centers
The Ports and Maritime Organization of Iran (PMO) actively supports investors by providing clear steps, dedicated packages, and regulatory guidance, fostering a conducive environment for investment.
Impressive Cargo Throughput Statistics
In the last Iranian fiscal year ending in March 2025, Imam Khomeini Port achieved a total cargo throughput of over 48 million tons, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 1%, as reported by port authorities. Containerized cargo operations experienced a remarkable 30% increase, with 87,611 TEUs handled during the 12-month period. This growth highlights the port’s efficiency and rising container traffic.
Moreover, Imam Khomeini Port is responsible for 70% of Iran’s total unloading, storing, and distribution of basic commodities, solidifying its status as the country’s primary logistics gateway for strategic imports.
In conclusion, the strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and diverse capabilities of Imam Khomeini Port make it a cornerstone of Iran’s maritime trade and logistics. Its role in regional and international trade, coupled with significant investment opportunities, positions it as an essential player in the global economy.
