12 Effective Tips for Doing Business in Iran

By: Eric Nelson Posted on Fri, 08-05-2020

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Many global companies, foreign governments and Iranian are hoping to see an increase in investment in Iran after declaring the nuclear deal and relief in sanctions. Despite the sanctions deal many global banks left Iran and have not returned. This has made many companies uncertain about Iran's business capacity. Nevertheless having a weak economy, political problems and the ongoing effects of sanctions, Iran is still a lucrative market in the emerging business world.

Iran is one of the most oil-rich countries in the middle east, its tourism side has great potential and pressure to its political uncertainty is on the decline. Iranian like to use foreign-made products regardless of US sanctions and weak economies.  If you want to expand your business to Iran, the following tips can help. In addition, if you need help in business translation, Mars Translation can help by providing fast, accurate and consistent Farsi translation services.

Let’s take a look at some helpful tips for making your business successful in Iran.

Complete Your Homework

Iran is a potential market with lots of opportunities but still, with the removal of some sanctions, it is considered a challenging and composite market in which you can do business. An obscure and uninformed law, weak marketable framework and chances of exploitation suggests that you need to study the Iranian market before penetrating it.

Knowhow Of the Market

If you want to enter the Iranian market you need to have an understanding of their business environment, culture, legal and commercial laws, and people. By knowing these things about Iran's culture you can minimize the hurdles which you might face in Iran.

Build Strong Networking with Local Partners

If you want to start your business in Iran,  you should build strong networking because as a foreign investor or businessman you need to know about the local authorities, logistics, and other professional business requirements. It will solve many of your business matters and you will be able to have a successful business venture in Iran.

Be Conscious In The Beginning 

Iranian are very difficult people to negotiate with. Even at the start of a negotiation, they can ask for favors in incentives so you need to start with a slow pace in the market and be very vigilant in testing the market and your business partner. The proverb ‘Haste makes waste’ holds true here. Don’t hurry, take your time with every single step and if you are going for a joint venture, do some background check and research about the prospective partner.

Maintain Your Focus

After the removal of sanctions, many foreign companies are showing interest in the potential Iranian market. You are required to pay attention to value propositions to have a competitive advantage in the market. Furthermore, you must stay focused on how you can make your place in the niche market and cater to the needs and wants of the target audience. 

Legal Help Required For Export Controls and Lasting Sanctions

The removal of UN sanctions will not eradicate the requirement for foreign companies to be conscious while dealing with potential Iranian investors and clients. New sanctions have limited trade with Iran in some of the industries like ballistic missiles, nuclear arms, and dangerous arm weapons. Moreover, the sale of dual-use items is not allowed to be exported but under certain control. For this purpose, you need to get permission from the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade. It is advised to take legal assistance to overcome the impact of autonomous UN sanctions.

Dealing With Banking Channels

The abolition of US financial and banking sanctions regarding non-US banks have enabled the trade between foreign countries and Iran. Before penetrating Iran and making any commitments, you are required to consult your bank. The financial laws and regulations can freeze your assets so you should be aware of whom you are doing business with and make sure no sanction is imposed by the UN security council.

Relationship With Other Exporters

Foreign companies who are also doing business in other gulf markets should be aware of the fact that how doing business in the Iranian market can have an impact on their present business partner.

Revising Policies and Ensure Compliance

A revised compliance policy is very important in establishing a business venture in Iran. Foreign investors and companies should make sure that policies are adhered to with the assistance of a corporate lawyer.

Have a Market Data

If you want to enter the Iranian market, you should know about macroeconomic indicators of your target market. You need to have data on population growth, inflation and GDP growth to penetrate the Iranian market effectively.

Connecting with the Right Local Partner

You can show your local presence in Iranian territory through local distributors. Many foreign companies are using the Dubai model in which they use local partners in the UAE to connect with Iranian distributors.

Recovering Brand Equity

Customers have very vague views regarding illegal foreign goods in Iran. You should be ready to prevent your business from grey market trade and reproduction of products in Iran. Otherwise, you might face problems regarding pricing. 

Wrapping Up

If you are planning to expand your business to Iran, you need to pay special attention to detail and craft business strategy carefully by keeping in mind the above-mentioned points. Moreover, effective business communication is very important for your success in foreign markets. Miscommunication can have a havoc on your business and it will destroy your global image. Knowing the importance of business communication, Mars Translation is providing you with Professional Persian Translation Services according to your business requirements.