IMF forecasts Iran’s economy to grow 3.6% in 2027
The International Monetary Fund expects Iran’s economy to return to growth in 2027, expanding by 3.6% after a projected contraction of 7.6% in 2026, according to a report cited by Tasnim news agency.
The IMF’s World Economic Outlook also forecasts a slowdown in inflation next year, with the rate expected to fall to 42% in 2027 from 78.6% in 2026.
Iran’s current account balance is projected to move from a deficit equivalent to 1.2% of gross domestic product in 2026 to a surplus of 1.2% of GDP in 2027, the report said.
The fund also expects a slight improvement in the labor market, forecasting Iran’s unemployment rate to decline to 9% in 2027 from 9.2% this year.
The projections point to an improvement in Iran’s key economic indicators next year, despite US efforts to maintain sanctions against the country, according to the report.
The country, already under decades of Western sanctions over its nuclear activities, has faced a new wave of US sanctions on its aviation sector. Iran’s southern ports remain under a US naval blockade imposed by President Donald Trump in mid-April, aimed at pressuring Tehran into an agreement after a 40-day US-Israeli war that began in late February.