Iran’s Exports to France: Key Products and Trade Insights

Opportunities and Challenges of Iran’s Exports to France: A Review of Trade Statistics and Key Export Items

In recent years, Iran’s exports to France have seen notable growth. According to a report by the Iranian Embassy in France, in the 12-month period ending in November 2024, Iran’s exports to France increased by 12%, reaching €46 million. Meanwhile, Iran’s imports from France dropped by 7.4%, down to €261 million.

Despite this growth, Iran's trade balance with France remains negative, standing at €215 million in favor of France. Currently, Iran ranks 104th among France’s trade partners, listed as the 87th largest customer and 124th supplier.

Iran’s exports to France mainly include food products (19.8%), agricultural goods (16.3%), and pharmaceuticals (14.8%). On the other hand, Iran's imports from France are primarily composed of pharmaceuticals (29.5%), medical equipment (21.3%), and chemicals (13.3%).

These figures indicate promising opportunities for expanding the export of high-quality Iranian goods to France. By adhering to international standards and aligning with the needs of the French market, Iran can increase its share in this European destination.

List of Iran’s Key Export Products to France

Understanding the target market’s needs is essential for success in international trade. European countries, including France, have specific demands for goods that Iran is well-equipped to produce with high quality. Recognizing these needs can be a determining factor in selecting the most suitable export items, ensuring profitability for traders and exporters.

Below is a list of Iran’s most important export items to France:

Saffron

Iranian saffron is one of the country’s most renowned and valuable agricultural products, with a strong fanbase in European markets, especially in France. Professional and attractive packaging plays a crucial role in the successful export of saffron, adding considerable value.

Handwoven Persian Carpets

Traditional Iranian carpets have long been appreciated in European markets. Their high quality, artistic designs, and rich colors contribute to their popularity in France. Selecting the right designs and sizes based on European tastes can significantly boost sales.

Iranian Pistachios

Iranian pistachios are among the most recognized nuts globally, and France is a key customer. As with saffron, maintaining quality standards and using appealing packaging are vital for successful pistachio exports.

Cast Iron Products

Cast iron items produced in Iran serve various industrial applications in France and are considered valuable industrial exports. These products can be exported in different volumes, depending on market demand.

Varied Flooring Products

Iranian flooring products come in diverse designs, colors, and materials, making them suitable for the French market. Quality, innovative design, and competitive pricing are key success factors.

Polyethylene and Antisera

Industrial and pharmaceutical raw materials like polyethylene and antisera also feature on Iran’s export list to France. These items have good export potential if international standards are met.

Cocoa Butter and Plant/Animal-Based Fats

These edible products are widely used in the food and cosmetic industries. When supplied with high quality and proper packaging, they have strong market potential in France.

Seedless Grapes (Fresh or Dried as Raisins)

Iran is a leading global producer of grapes. Exporting fresh grapes or processed forms like raisins is a viable opportunity in the French market.

Shrimp

Iranian seafood, especially shrimp, is highly regarded for its quality and has strong export potential to Europe. Iranian shrimp already has a niche market in France.

Sugarcane and Molasses

Sugarcane and its derivatives, such as molasses, are also part of Iran’s export portfolio and have applications in both the food and chemical industries in France.

Iranian Rice and Agricultural Seeds

Iranian rice, known for its unique aroma and flavor, appeals to niche markets in Europe. Additionally, high-quality agricultural seeds are gaining attention in France’s farming sector.

The Role of the Abrisham Road International Platform in Expanding Iran’s Exports to France

In developing Iran’s exports to international markets, leveraging modern digital tools and smart commercial platforms has become essential. The Abrisham Road International Platform, Iran’s first specialized B2B export platform, plays a vital role in facilitating international trade and improving Iranian exporters’ access to target markets.

This platform offers services such as multilingual product showcases, direct connections between Iranian producers and French importers, market analysis, business consulting, and support with packaging, branding, and meeting European standards. These features help strengthen the presence of Iranian goods in the French market.

Through a transparent and intelligent interface, the Abrisham Road platform helps Iranian traders reduce intermediary costs and commercial risks while marketing products such as saffron, pistachios, handmade carpets, seafood, and industrial goods.

Moreover, the platform offers updated market reports on France, customs regulation updates, and access to European importer databases, making the export journey easier for Iranian businesses and manufacturers.

Considering the recent growth in exports to France and the existing opportunities in this market, platforms like Abrisham Road can be a key enabler in achieving targeted, sustainable, and profitable export development for Iran.

Key Takeaways and Recommendations

Despite the current trade deficit, the upward trend in Iran’s exports to France and the decline in imports signal untapped potential for enhancing bilateral trade. Products like saffron, handwoven carpets, pistachios, as well as agricultural and industrial goods, enjoy competitive advantages due to their high quality and adaptability to French market demands.

Focusing on international standards, improving packaging, and adopting digital tools like the Abrisham Road platform can play a crucial role in boosting Iran’s market share in France. With a smart and strategic approach, targeted exports to France could become a powerful driver for Iran’s non-oil economic growth and sustainable development.