Tehran Chamber of Commerce Urges Government to Scrap Currency Assignment Pacts for Neighboring Countries
According to the Economic Desk of Webangah News Agency, Tehran Chamber of Commerce President Najafi Arab has called for abolishing currency assignment agreements for exports to Iran’s neighboring countries, including Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eurasia. Speaking at a ceremony marking Tehran Design Week on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, Najafi emphasized that removing these financial restrictions could stimulate $12 billion in additional regional exports while helping meet Iran’s $70 billion foreign currency needs.
Najafi argued that aligning export currency rates with free market values would incentivize exporters to repatriate foreign currency earnings more willingly. He highlighted the potential of zero-tariff agreements with neighboring nations to revitalize trade, noting Iran’s access to a 400 million-person regional market that requires product designs tailored to local consumer preferences.
The chamber president stressed that improved product design matching regional tastes – particularly in furniture and consumer goods – could significantly boost export growth. He praised Tehran Design Week as an initiative that bridges designers with manufacturers, noting its positive impact on urban businesses and the furniture industry’s 13,000-strong global designer network.
Hassan Ahmadian, head of Iran’s Furniture Producers and Exporters Union, reported that the annual design event has fostered unprecedented collaboration between creators and manufacturers since 2024. The initiative has reportedly revitalized historical sites, boosted visitor engagement, and created lasting economic value through improved product designs that resonate with international consumers.
