Jafar Jamili, Acting Director General for the Department of Business Development and Associations Affairs at MRUD, said Iran handled close to 20 million tonnes of transit cargo in 2024. About 88% moved by road and 12% by rail. A large share involved petroleum products transported from Iraq’s Kurdistan region to southern Iranian ports for export to Persian Gulf countries.

Road and Rail Infrastructure Plans

Jamili noted that 70% of the Seventh Plan’s target is expected to move via roads and 30% by rail. He emphasised the need for upgraded highways, expanded rail links, smart border facilities and streamlined trade processes to meet the target.

Geopolitical and Regional Context

Global shipping challenges in the Strait of Hormuz, Bab al-Mandeb and Suez Canal, alongside the Russia–Ukraine conflict, have increased demand for overland corridors. Iran is working to strengthen regional links, including the North–South and East–West routes, while engaging in international corridors such as INSTC, CPEC–ITI and TRACECA.
Jamili confirmed that a National Transit Headquarters has been established under the Seventh Development Plan, with a draft National Transit Document under preparation. He also highlighted the role of universities in developing transport studies and guiding long-term policy.