IRICA Authorizes Aprin Dry Port for Iran's Vehicle Imports

Iran’s customs administration has designated the Aprin dry port in Tehran Province as an authorized customs point for vehicle imports, following a request by the national railway company, IRICA said.

Under an agreement signed between railway representatives and customs officials, vehicles can now be cleared at Aprin, IRNA reported. Subject to approval by IRICA’s legal deputy, combined rail-road transport from the largest dry port in the Middle East will also be allowed.

The port is located in Eslamshahr and sits at a key junction of transport corridors. Officials said it could play a promising role in future trade flows and has the potential to become a major regional logistics hub.

Iran has a large domestic car industry capable of meeting rising domestic demand. Local automotive companies produced 1.335 million vehicles in the calendar year ending March 2024, making Iran the 16th largest car producer globally.

However, in recent months, the government has introduced laws to ease import restrictions, aiming to lower prices and increase competition in the market. Local media reports suggest that demand for domestic brands has slowed after two leading manufacturers raised their prices. - Iran Daily