Australian Ambassador to Iran has stated that a growing number of Australian tradesmen and investors are eager to collaborate with Iranian businesses, highlighting the untapped potential for economic cooperation between the two countries.
During a meeting with Younes Zhaeleh, Chairman of the Tabriz Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, the ambassador emphasized that Australia and Iran enjoy strong complementarities in several sectors, including agriculture, mining, medical services, and education.
Growing Opportunities Across Trade, Startups, and Education
The ambassador underscored the significant potential for joint initiatives between Iranian startups, universities, and their Australian counterparts. She noted that Iran’s young, educated workforce represents a major asset for deepening international cooperation.
She went on to highlight that Australia’s economy is largely driven by the private sector, with the government playing a limited role. With low customs tariffs in Australia, she added, there is considerable space to identify new avenues for mutual trade.
Addressing connectivity, the ambassador stated that Australia has fully resumed regular flights after the COVID-19 pandemic. She noted that Australian businesses are already very active in the UAE, exporting numerous goods to Dubai that are subsequently re-exported to global markets.
Commenting on Iran’s current economic challenges, she expressed regret about the sanctions imposed on the Iranian people. She reiterated that food and medicine are not subject to sanctions, pointing out that agriculture and healthcare represent two key sectors in which Australia and Iran can continue to strengthen trade.
Highlighting Iran’s strategic location, she described the country as an important commercial hub in the region. The ambassador emphasized the potential of Chabahar Port as a gateway for importing goods into Iran and re-exporting them to neighboring countries.
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East Azarbaijan Highlights Investment Potential
In response, Younes Zhaeleh stressed that East Azarbaijan Province possesses strong industrial and agricultural capacities attractive to foreign investors. He noted the long-standing history of trade between Tabriz and Australia—particularly in carpet exports from Tabriz and wool imports from Australia.
Zhaeleh also pointed out that the current level of bilateral trade remains far below potential, expressing hope that cooperation between Australia and East Azarbaijan will expand meaningfully in the coming years.
He further emphasized that Iran is one of the most advantageous countries in the region for foreign investment, citing:
- Low energy prices
- Minimal taxes
- Tax exemptions for foreign investors
- Abundant skilled manpower
- Strong governmental support for international investment
Both sides concluded the meeting with optimism, recognizing the considerable room for growth in trade relations between Iran and Australia.
