Aref urges concerted efforts to restore Iranian textiles to top standing
In a meeting with the board of directors of the Iran Textile Industries Association, Vice President Mohammadreza Aref emphasized the need to restore Iran’s textile industry to its former position as a leading exporter of high-quality goods in the international market.
This meeting marked the first in a series of engagements with the industry leaders and private sector representatives aimed at supporting and revitalizing this key sector.
Aref described the textile industry as one of Iran’s oldest and most traditional industries, noting that despite its significant potential for job creation and contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP), it has been neglected in recent years. He announced plans to modernize and rebuild the industry with the help of stakeholders.
Reflecting on privatization efforts in the early 2000s, Aref acknowledged that mutual commitments between the government and the textile industry were not fully realized, leading to Iran falling behind global and regional competitors. He stressed that the government is now seriously committed to reviving the industry and ensuring it regains its competitive edge.
“The textile industry must be revitalized, and the government will actively support this sector,” Aref said. “Countries that entered the textile industry after Iran have surpassed us. We must fulfill past commitments and restore Iran’s textiles to their former status as a top exporter of premium goods.”
Aref highlighted the cultural significance of the textile industry, stating that it should not be replaced but rather prioritized. He also pointed to the promising export market in the Eurasian region, emphasizing the need for Iran to remain competitive in a globalized economy.
“Neighboring countries operate in a competitive environment, and imposing import restrictions is unsustainable. We must prepare to meet domestic and regional demands,” he said.
The veep called for regulated fabric imports, particularly in free trade zones, and stressed the importance of providing foreign currency for the import of new machinery to modernize the industry. He also emphasized the need to revise tariffs and import duties to support the sector.
Aref reiterated the government’s commitment to improving quality, marketing, and self-sufficiency in the textile industry. He expressed optimism about the industry’s recovery, noting that Iranian clothing has gained a strong foothold in domestic and regional markets.
“If the government deems import restrictions necessary, it will take appropriate measures to support the industry,” he added.
During the meeting, members of the Textile Industries Association outlined challenges related to currency policies, import restrictions, supply chain issues, raw material shortages, and customs and tariff problems. They also presented proposals to address such issues.
This meeting was part of a broader initiative to support the private sector in line with the directives of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, following his visit to the Pioneers of Progress Exhibition.
Visiting Defense Ministry exhibition
On Wednesday, Aref visited the Defense Ministry’s exhibition on national defense development cooperation.
He was briefed on the ministry’s latest achievements in oil, gas, petrochemicals, health, medical equipment, transportation, electricity, clean energy, storage, construction, mining, information technology, artificial intelligence, and food security.
Aref praised the ministry for organizing the exhibition, calling it an opportunity to showcase progress in national self-reliance and food security. He highlighted the ministry’s accomplishments in industrial sectors, communications, artificial intelligence, and food security, particularly in reducing dependence on imported oil.
“We are pursuing self-sufficiency in all sectors, especially defense, but we are not seeking war. We will defend our country and provide the necessary equipment,” Aref said.
On Iran’s peaceful nuclear activities, Aref emphasized that the country is committed to using nuclear technology for peaceful purposes in line with a religious decree prohibiting the development of nuclear weapons. He reiterated that Iran’s strategy in this area is clear and consistent.
Regarding a potential meeting between the presidents of Iran and the United States, Aref stated that while such a meeting is not impossible, it is not currently on Iran’s agenda.
Aref also addressed economic reforms, highlighting the government’s focus on resolving livelihood issues through structural reforms and short-term measures, such as livelihood packages for vulnerable groups. He noted progress in reducing inflation and achieving economic growth.
On currency exchange rates, Aref explained that the government’s strategy is to unify exchange rates, which has led to a more balanced market. He expressed confidence that stability in the currency market would eventually influence the free market.
The VP also discussed Iran’s international trade strategy, emphasizing the importance of strengthening ties with neighboring countries, Muslim nations, and Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) members. He expressed hope for Iran’s permanent membership in the EAEU and the implementation of a free trade agreement with the union.
Aref highlighted infrastructure projects, such as the North-South and East-West transport corridors, and the development of railway lines like Basra-Shalamcheh and Chabahar-Zahedan, as key to enhancing regional trade and cooperation.
On privatization, Aref affirmed that it is a government strategy and a legal obligation but stressed that it must be carried out in a way that preserves jobs and boosts production.