Iran’s Chamber of Commerce president says that boosting exports in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector is a strategic necessity for Iran to overcome economic bottlenecks and reduce reliance on traditional oil and raw material exports.
Speaking at the “ICT Export Conference” in Tehran, attended by economic and industry experts, Samad Hassanzadeh, head of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, said the country’s economy, strained by external pressures and sanctions, requires a shift towards knowledge-based exports.
“In a situation where our economy is facing external pressures and the limitations caused by sanctions, relying on raw materials and traditional exports no longer meets the needs of our country. ICT exports are a strategic necessity to pass through economic bottlenecks and to enter the knowledge-based economy,” Hassanzadeh said.
He highlighted Iran’s advantages, including a pool of young, talented, and motivated workforce, prominent ICT specialists, and knowledge-based startups with export potential. He also cited lower production costs compared to regional countries as an edge for Iran to secure a foothold in international markets.
“We believe that with proper planning in the export of products and services, especially in the ICT sector, we can achieve sustainable foreign currency revenues,” Hassanzadeh noted.
Challenging the notion that ICT exports are an exclusive domain of developed countries, Hassanzadeh said regional demand for software services and artificial intelligence solutions presents Iran with an opportunity to become a technology partner for neighboring countries.
“The idea that only advanced economies can be key players in ICT exports is a misconception. Given the region’s need for software and AI services, we can position ourselves as a technology partner for these countries,” he added.
Hassanzadeh emphasized that the Iranian Chamber of Commerce is committed to facilitating the entry of ICT companies into international markets, adding, “We firmly believe the future belongs to technology and artificial intelligence.”