Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has called on government and supervisory bodies to avoid placing obstacles in the way of the private sector.
Speaking at a meeting with a large group of Iranian entrepreneurs and private sector operators in Tehran on Wednesday, the Supreme Leader stressed that importing products similar to domestically produced goods is detrimental to workers and producers. He warned that such practices ultimately undermine domestic investors, leaving them vulnerable to foreign competition.
Reflecting on the progress of the private sector in recent years, Ayatollah Khamenei highlighted five meetings he has held with economic activists over the past few years. In 2019, amid the peak of sanctions and mounting threats, he referred to producers and entrepreneurs as the "frontline commanders of the economic war" and called for an increase in production. Subsequent meetings have shown that the private sector has been advancing in its efforts to enhance its strength and creativity, he noted.
This year, Ayatollah Khamenei observed, it became clear that economic activists, with their practical experience, are focusing on expanding production and boosting investment.
Additionally, the Supreme Leader commented on his visit to an exhibition in Tehran on Tuesday, which showcased achievements of the private sector. He emphasized that, despite facing pressure, sanctions, and threats, the private sector has made significant progress.
He concluded by stating that the country's forward momentum should be regarded as a great divine blessing that should be appreciated.