Iran exported $13.37 billion worth of non-oil goods to its 15 neighboring countries during the first eight months of the current Iranian year (March 20-Nov. 20), more than $8.57 billion of which went to Arab states, according to the director general for Arab and African affairs with the Trade Promotion Organization of Iran.
“Iraq and the UAE were Iran’s first and second export destinations from among its neighbors. Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain came ninth, 10th, 11th and 14th,” Farzad Piltan was quoted as saying by IRNA.
The official added that no exports, or imports, were made to and from Saudi Arabia during the period under review.
According to the official, due to the proximity of Arab countries to Iran, suitable port facilities, cost-effective marketing and lower expenses of taking part in exhibitions and other commercial events, as well as cultural, religious and linguistic commonalities, TPO aims to expand trade with Arab countries in the region.
Overall Trade at $44.6b
Iran’s non-oil foreign trade hit 97.7 million tons worth $44.6 billion in the eight months leading to Nov. 20.
According to Mehdi Mirashrafi, the head of Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration, exports accounted for 75 million tons worth $21.5 billion and imports constituted 21.8 million tons worth $23.1 billion.
“Compared with the corresponding period of last year (March 21-Nov. 21, 2019), exports registered a 14% and 19% decline in weight and value respectively. Imports saw a respective 1% and 18% decline in weight and value year-on-year,” he was quoted as saying by IRNA.
Imports of essential goods accounted for 15.2 million tons (70%) of total imports.