PMO to Drive Investment and Boost Maritime Development Initiatives

In a significant move to enhance maritime transport, Saeed Rasouli, the Deputy Minister of Roads and Urban Development and Acting Head of the Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO), recently visited northern ports during the early days of the new year, following the Iranian calendar starting on March 21st. His emphasis on strategic policies for capacity expansion and increased investment aims to facilitate economic activities and transform the maritime sector.

These initiatives are designed to bring about procedural reforms and foster synergy among executive bodies. In his New Year’s message, Rasouli highlighted the essential role of maritime-oriented development and large-scale investments in achieving vital economic objectives.

Amirabad Port: Expanding Capacity and Enhancing Transit

During his visit to Amirabad Port, Rasouli made an important announcement regarding the port’s capacity. The capacity is set to increase from 7.5 million tons to 10 million tons, which will significantly boost its operational effectiveness.

He underscored the critical role of the port’s rail infrastructure in enhancing goods transit, stating that this is crucial for improving overall logistics. In line with the theme of “Investment for Production,” Rasouli outlined plans to streamline the investment process in the country’s ports, aligning with three strategic pillars:

• Maritime Economy
• Transit
• Logistics Management

Regional Meetings to Foster Cooperation

Rasouli also pointed to the recent meetings of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) among Caspian Sea littoral states. He revealed plans for future bilateral and multilateral meetings aimed at expanding port activities and fostering economic cooperation in the region.

He emphasized the importance of accelerating project implementation and minimizing investment barriers by supporting private-sector investors.

Supporting the Private Sector in Fereydunkenar Port

During his visit to Fereydunkenar Port, Rasouli reiterated that strong support for investors remains a core policy of the PMO. He highlighted the port’s potential in fuel storage, grain handling, and mechanized equipment.

Rasouli stressed the necessity of holding specialized meetings with investors to eliminate obstacles and optimize existing facilities. He stated that supporting investment and reducing excessive bureaucracy are among the PMO’s top priorities.

Additionally, he announced plans to revise contracts and economic models to ensure they are aligned with the country’s evolving economic landscape.

Nowshahr Port: High Capacity for Cargo Handling

In the early days of Spring 2025, Rasouli visited Nowshahr Port and reaffirmed the critical need for maritime-oriented development to enhance both export and import capabilities.

According to Rasouli, Nowshahr Port has demonstrated a positive performance in cargo handling over the past two years. He assured that further capacity increases would be achieved through necessary infrastructure enhancements.

He described the revision of investment regulations and procedures as a fundamental step toward revitalizing the port. Rasouli insisted that existing barriers to investment should be swiftly removed to facilitate growth.

Facilitation: The Key to Port Development

Summarizing the PMO’s new policies, Rasouli prioritized private sector support, emphasizing the need for the PMO to eliminate investment obstacles. This approach is essential for paving the way for industrial growth and national economic development.

Concluding his remarks, Rasouli stated that transport and logistics are the driving forces behind the country’s economy. He expressed optimism that the new year would see real facilitation in port activities and greater participation from the private sector.

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