President of Iran Chamber of Commerce and Australia’s ambassador to Tehran met on Sunday to discuss expanding trade in non-sanctioned goods and exploring alternative financial mechanisms to circumvent banking restrictions.
Samad Hassanzadeh, president of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture, acknowledged that US sanctions have hindered bilateral trade but stressed that alternative methods exist to sustain commercial ties.
"We can overcome sanctions by using alternative financial mechanisms. Both sides need to reach a mutual understanding, and the Australian embassy can play a key role in facilitating this," Hassanzadeh said.
He emphasized the potential of Iranian exports, including food products, building materials, medical equipment, and dried fruits, citing their competitive pricing and high quality as advantages for the Australian market.
Australian Ambassador Ian McConville reaffirmed his country’s interest in deepening economic ties with Iran, particularly through collaboration with the Iran Chamber of Commerce and the Iran-Australia Joint Chamber.
He referred to visits to several Iranian cities, including Shiraz, Yazd, Isfahan, and Kashan, noting that Iranian carpets always leave a lasting impression.
He added that while bilateral trade remains at a reasonable level, there is room for growth in non-sanctioned sectors.
A significant volume of Australian meat is exported to Iran, and Iranian non-sanctioned goods also enter Australia, the ambassador said, calling for these exchanges to be further expanded.
McConville acknowledged that banking sanctions remain a major challenge to trade growth but expressed hope that continued dialogue could help mitigate these obstacles.