Iran’s Trade Landscape: A Deep Dive into Exports and Imports

Iran’s engagement in global trade is nuanced, shaped by its rich natural resources and complex geopolitical landscape. Among the more than 100 countries that maintain trade relations with Iran, China stands out as the largest export partner. This relationship underscores the strategic alliances that have formed despite international sanctions and economic pressures.

China: Iran’s Primary Export Partner

In the fiscal year leading up to October 2025, China imported over $14 billion worth of goods from Iran. This figure, reported by Trade Data Monitor and grounded in data from the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration, highlights China’s significant role in supporting Iran’s economy. The products exchanged largely align with Iran’s vast natural resources, contributing to the economic interdependence that has taken form.

China’s sustained investment in Iranian exports speaks volumes about the ongoing strategic cooperation between the two nations. Whether driven by energy needs or political objectives, this partnership showcases the power dynamics at play in international trade.

The Second Player: Iraq

Following China, Iraq emerges as a key player in Iran’s trade landscape, receiving $10.5 billion in goods from its neighbor. This relationship is rooted in geographical proximity as well as historical connections, leading to a robust flow of products across their shared border. Such exchanges often reflect not only commerce but also a mutual understanding and respect for regional stability, with both countries benefitting from cooperation.

Other Notable Trade Partners

In addition to China and Iraq, Iran’s trading network includes the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Turkey. The latter has seen its imports from Iran surge significantly, jumping from $4.7 billion in 2024 to $7.3 billion in 2025. This remarkable increase indicates a strengthening economic bond, perhaps driven by Turkey’s need for energy supplies and other resources. The broader implications of these dynamics are worth considering, especially given the geopolitical tensions in the region.

Key Exports: Fuel and Beyond

Iran is internationally recognized for its oil production, ranking as one of the world’s largest oil exporters. Unsurprisingly, nearly all of its top 10 exports are fuel-related, underscoring the centrality of energy resources to Iran’s economy. This focus on oil and gas shapes not just export numbers but also influences international negotiations and partnerships.

Beyond hydrocarbons, Iran also exports various food products, including pistachios, tomatoes, and other agricultural goods. These items contribute to its foreign trade portfolio, yet they remain overshadowed by the prominence of fuel-related commodities.

The Import Side: A Dependence on Staples

Conversely, Iran’s import profile tells a different story. Food constitutes about a third of its imports, highlighting a compelling reliance on foreign staples. Essential items such as corn, rice, sunflower seeds, oils, and soybeans constitute a significant percentage of what Iran brings in from other countries, underlining domestic agricultural challenges.

Gold: A Precious Import

Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of Iran’s import landscape is its voracious appetite for gold. Over the same 12-month period leading to October, Iran imported $6.7 billion worth of gold—a striking increase from $4.8 billion the previous year. This growing trend not only reflects an effort to bolster reserves amidst economic volatility but also suggests a complex interplay between local and international financial strategies.

Economic Implications

The intricate web of exports and imports in Iran reveals a country striving to navigate an ever-shifting global economy. The relationships formed with major partners like China, Iraq, and Turkey are vital to sustaining not only trade but also political alliances. As Iran continues to adapt to changing circumstances, its export strategies will likely evolve, while import dependencies will necessitate careful management.

By examining these details, we gain a deeper understanding of how Iran maneuvers within the challenging terrain of international trade and economic survival.