A senior Iranian official has called for a fundamental shift in Iran’s approach to Africa, arguing that expanded trade will require practical, results-oriented economic diplomacy rather than symbolic visits and preliminary talks.
Masoumeh Aghapour, Adviser to the President for Economic Cooperation, made the remarks at the second course of the Iran-Africa Chamber of Commerce, an initiative aimed at preparing younger Iranians for international trade. She said success in African markets depends on coordination among the government, private sector, and academic institutions, with each taking a clear share of responsibility.
“Success in African markets will not be achieved by increasing the number of trips and signing memoranda of understanding,” Aghapour said. Instead, she stressed the need for real projects, capable companies, operational contracts, and a new generation of international trade professionals.
She described Africa not simply as a market for Iranian goods but as a strategic horizon for Iran’s economy and a platform for young people to engage in global trade. The continent’s young population, growing consumption, and developing markets, she said, require a long-term strategy rather than isolated, case-by-case interactions.
Aghapour also emphasized that entering African markets demands detailed knowledge of local regulations, risks, supply chains, banking and foreign-exchange systems, and distribution networks. Iranian exporters, she said, must study consumer preferences and tailor products accordingly.
She called for specialized training in African trade that combines theoretical instruction with hands-on experience in negotiation, marketing, partner identification, and contract implementation. Cooperation should not be limited to traditional goods, she added; Iranian technology and knowledge-based firms and specialized service providers should also be positioned for African markets, with trade planning centered on matching Iranian capabilities to real local needs.
