Iran sees 37% rise in vehicle imports over four-month period
Over $313 million worth of cars cleared by customs; thousands more await entry as Tehran eases restrictions to boost competition
TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran’s vehicle imports surged by 37% in the four months ending July 22, driven by government policies aimed at increasing market competition and stabilizing car prices, according to the latest data from the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA).
IRICA chief Foroud Asgari said on Sunday that customs authorities had cleared 14,287 brand-new vehicles during the April–July period, marking a significant year-on-year increase.
The value of imported vehicles also rose sharply, jumping nearly 50% compared to the same period last year to reach $313 million.
Asgari noted that between 10,000 and 13,000 additional vehicles—mostly new models—are currently awaiting customs clearance at the southern ports of Shahid Rajaee and Bahonar, indicating continued momentum in the auto import sector.
While IRICA did not release a detailed breakdown of vehicle types imported during the period, earlier reports suggest that most of the shipments consist of passenger cars, including electric vehicles (EVs) that benefit from reduced import duties under current regulations.
Despite recent legislation aimed at facilitating the import of second-hand vehicles, IRICA confirmed that no used cars were registered for entry during the four-month span.
Iran, which has a well-established domestic automotive industry, produced approximately 1.335 million vehicles in the year ending March 2024, ranking it as the 16th largest car producer globally. However, domestic demand appears to be shifting amid rising prices for local models.
In response, the Iranian government has eased import restrictions in recent months, a move intended to curb inflation in the auto market and enhance consumer choice.
Media reports indicate that interest in domestic brands has declined, particularly after two of the country’s top manufacturers raised their prices, prompting more consumers to consider imported alternatives.
The current uptick in imports reflects both policy shifts and changing consumer preferences in a market long dominated by local automakers.
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