Tehran [Iran], May 1 (ANI): Mobarakeh Steel Group, the largest steel producer in the Middle East, has called upon the Indian government to provide market access for Iranian companies within the rapidly expanding Indian economy, which is currently the world’s fastest-growing major market.
In an exclusive interview with ANI during the Iran Expo, Abouzar Alvandi, Export Head for Far East and Middle Asia at Mobarakeh Steel Group, emphasized the potential mutual benefits of bilateral cooperation.
“India is the world’s second-largest steel producer and is undergoing significant infrastructure development. We respectfully urge the Indian government to offer Iranian companies a modest share of the steel import market,” Alvandi stated.
He further remarked, “We are neighboring countries, and this cooperation can benefit both sides. We are not seeking a dominant share—only the opportunity to export steel or other essential goods to meet the needs of the Indian people. This access would enable us to sustain our operations despite the ongoing international sanctions on Iran. In particular, we are requesting permission to export semi-finished products such as steel slabs to India.”
Mobarakeh Steel Group, based in Iran, is the largest steel producer in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and is recognized globally as the leading manufacturer of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI). The company accounts for over 50 percent of Iran’s total steel production, serving key industries including automotive manufacturing, construction, consumer appliances, and packaging.
Alvandi highlighted the crippling effects of U.S. and European Union sanctions on Iranian exporters. “Due to these sanctions, we face major hurdles in executing financial transactions, especially through the SWIFT network. Consequently, we are frequently compelled to rely on third-party intermediaries for exports, as direct buyers often fear repercussions, including being blacklisted by the United States,” he explained.
He also underscored the logistical difficulties plaguing Iranian exporters. “Maritime shipping is a particular challenge. Very few shipping companies are willing to operate with Iranian firms or dock at Iranian ports, which significantly obstructs our supply chain operations,” he noted.
Commenting on the significance of the Iran Expo, Alvandi remarked, “Events like these are essential for Iranian companies to exhibit their capabilities and explore international market opportunities, particularly in neighboring countries. This is the seventh edition of the Iran Expo, and it serves as a critical platform for building connections between Iranian exporters and global importers.”
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