Despite political tensions, Iran continues to export select high-quality goods like carpets, saffron, and handicrafts to...
Iran’s Export Growth Through Abrisham Road
Trade Relations Between Iran and China + Iran's Export Statistics to China Growth of Bilateral Trade
Over the past two decades, trade relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the People's Republic of China have seen significant growth, making China one of Iran's main economic partners. These collaborations encompass the trade of goods, infrastructure investments, energy, technology, and even financial and banking cooperation.
China’s Importance in Iran’s Foreign Trade
China has consistently been one of the largest buyers of Iranian crude oil. Even during periods of heavy Western economic sanctions against Iran, China maintained its trade relations with Tehran. Beyond oil, Iran also exports petrochemicals, minerals, carpets, dried fruits, and various agricultural products to China.
Iran-China Trade Statistics in Recent Years According to official reports:
- In 2023, total trade between Iran and China reached $14.6 billion.
- Of this amount, China’s imports from Iran amounted to $4.58 billion.
- This figure represents a 27% decrease compared to the previous year.
During the first five months of 2024:
- Iran's exports to China were estimated at approximately $1.8 billion,
- Which marks a 5% decrease compared to the same period in 2023.
Reasons Behind the Decline in Iran’s Exports to China
Several key factors have contributed to the drop in exports:
- Economic sanctions and banking restrictions have disrupted payments and logistics.
- Global price fluctuations in oil and gas, which directly affect the value of Iran’s exports.
- Tough competition from other exporters in China’s market, especially in energy and petrochemical sectors.
- Domestic economic instability in Iran and logistical challenges due to outdated infrastructure.
Iran's Key Export Products to China
China is one of the largest export destinations for Iranian goods, and the variety of exported items is expanding. Below are the main export categories along with their features:
1. Crude Oil and Gas Condensates
Description:Crude oil, condensates, and petroleum products remain Iran’s primary exports to China.
Technical Specifications:
- API gravity varies based on the oil field (e.g., heavy vs. light crude)
- Sulfur content differs by source Uses: Refining and fuel production, petrochemicals
2. Petrochemical Products
Description: Includes polymers, methanol, urea, ammonia, polyethylene, polypropylene, and other derivatives.
Technical Specifications:
Industrial and export-grade
- Complies with international standards like ASTM, ISO
- Uses:Plastics manufacturing, agriculture (fertilizers), construction, packaging
3. Minerals and Metals
Description: Iron ore, copper concentrate, lead, zinc, chromite, manganese
Technical Specifications:
- Various purities (e.g., 58%-65% Fe for iron ore)
- Particle size (fine, powder, or granulated)
- Uses: Steel production, metal smelting, construction
4. Pistachios and Dried Fruits
Description: Pistachios (Akbari, Fandoghi, Kalleh Ghouchi), raisins, dates, almonds
Technical Specifications:
- Export-grade, naturally dried
- Health standards compliant (controlled aflatoxin)
- Uses: Direct consumption, sweets and nut-based industries
5. Handwoven Persian Carpets
Description: Luxurious silk and wool carpets mainly from Tabriz, Qom, Kashan, and Naeen
Technical Specifications:
- High knot density (around 1200 knots and above)
- Natural dyes and traditional designs
- Uses: Interior decoration, cultural investment
6. Agricultural Products
Description:Saffron, apples, grapes, dried herbs, garlic, onions, watermelons
Technical Specifications:
- Organic or semi-organic
- Export-standard packaging (MAP, vacuum-packed)
Uses: Direct consumption, food processing industries
The Role of the Abrisham Road International Platform in Enhancing Exports to China
(The first specialized B2B platform for Iran-China trade)
The Abrisham Road International Platform plays a crucial role in facilitating, accelerating, and developing the export of Iranian products to China's vast market. As the first dedicated B2B platform between Iran and China, it utilizes modern technology, an extensive trader network, and international standards to create a reliable and efficient connection between Iranian producers and Chinese importers.
Advantages of the Abrisham Road Platform for Iranian Exporters
Direct Access to Verified Chinese Buyers
Iranian producers and exporters can directly showcase their products to Chinese importers, wholesalers, and sales agents without intermediaries.
Global Standard Product Listings
All product information is translated and formatted according to Chinese market requirements and presented on a professional multilingual platform. This includes technical specs, pricing, certifications, images, and packaging details.
Participation in Virtual and Physical Exhibitions
By taking part in international trade fairs and organizing exclusive B2B events, the platform creates real negotiation and sales opportunities.
Full Logistical and Financial Support
From international shipping and customs clearance to banking and legal consultations, the platform offers a comprehensive export support system through its network of partners.
Continuous and Transparent Communication with the Target Market
With messaging tools, order notifications, Chinese market insights, and ongoing consultancy, Iranian sellers stay in constant touch with Chinese buyers.
Impact on Iran’s Export Sector
So far, the Abrisham Road Platform has played a key role in promoting and exporting dozens of products including petrochemicals, dried fruits, carpets, saffron, fresh fruits, dates, and minerals to the Chinese market. Aimed at strengthening Iran’s non-oil exports, it also reduces international marketing costs and enhances the visibility of the “Made in Iran” brand in East Asia.
Conclusion
Considering China’s vast market potential and its increasing need for diverse imports, establishing reliable and professional export infrastructure is crucial for Iranian businesses. As the first specialized B2B platform between Iran and China, the Abrisham Road International Platform has taken effective steps toward boosting non-oil exports, eliminating costly intermediaries, and enhancing transparency and security in international trade.
This platform has not only simplified the export process for Iranian producers but also created sustainable economic growth opportunities by directly linking to China’s trade network. Supporting such initiatives can lead to smart development in Iran’s foreign trade and elevate the global standing of Iranian products.