Iran Expo 2025 is breaking records

Sectors of interest include food products, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment as well as steel and mining

- Marion Smith

The 7th edition of the Iran Expo 2025 in Tehran was attended by 3100 traders from 111 countries, presenting a different image of Iran to the world.

This event went beyond being just a trade exhibition; it symbolised real synergy between the government and the private sector for the development of non-oil exports.

Last year, 2400 traders and merchants from 94 countries participated in the exhibition, and domestic companies had the opportunity to secure their spots in the lead-up to the event.

For the 2025 Expo, which ran from 27 April to 2 May, because of unprecedented interest from domestic companies starting in late last year, more than 1 200 top export-oriented firms registered to participate across six product categories. But space constraints meant only about 800 companies were accommodated, leaving roughly 400 export companies unable to attend.

On the other hand, more than 4 300 traders and merchants confirmed their registration to attend the exhibition. Given the limited hotel capacity in Tehran, invitations were sent to more than 3 000 traders and merchants, the majority of whom arrived in Tehran, making traders from 111 countries guests of this exhibition.

The confirmed participation of 36 ministers — including those of trade, commerce and industry — alongside 24 deputy ministers, 30 presidents of chambers of commerce, and 98 heads of specialised trade associations, all leading high-ranking delegations to Tehran, is itself a testament to the significance and credibility of this exhibition.

Many of these delegations arrived with the goal of signing contracts. The nature and scale of this year’s reception, compared to the previous year, and the keen interest shown in collaborating with Iran, indicates a growing demand for Iranian goods in the global trade arena.