A joint meeting of economic actors was held at the Iran Chamber of Commerce with the presence of Dr. Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. In this session, Dr. Roghani, President of the Syndicate, President of the Industry Commission of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, and Advisor to the President of the Chamber, presented the views and concerns of economic actors.
At the beginning of his speech, while welcoming Dr. Larijani, he considered his presence among economic activists a clear message of the importance of the private sector and the national economy, expressing hope that the measures taken by senior officials would lead to improvement in the state of industry and the economy.
Dr. Roghani emphasized:
“Our intention is not to present a negative view, but the reality is that sanctions have created serious problems for the economy. Many small and medium-sized enterprises are in critical condition, resembling patients kept in intensive care units.”
He continued:
“The recent 12-day war also inflicted serious damage on industry. Many businesses lost their markets and job opportunities disappeared. While these problems can be solved, bureaucracy and the complex procedures of executive bodies appear to stand in the way of resolving them.”
The President of the Industry Commission of the Iran Chamber of Commerce stressed the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country’s economy:
“Over 90% of industrial employment is provided by SMEs. Although their share in GDP may not be very large, their role in employment is decisive. Neglecting this sector could lead to widespread unemployment, and the army of unemployed could become a threat to national security.”
He underlined:
“These enterprises face serious challenges in financing, access to foreign exchange, markets, economic diplomacy, and raw material supply. In such conditions, any political or economic shock—like the recent 12-day war—hits them the hardest.”
Dr. Roghani cited examples from various industries:
“In the textile sector, about 10% of the country’s employment exists, and nearly 90% of these enterprises are SMEs. Yet, the phenomenon of smuggling has broken the back of this industry, and it seems there is no strong determination to combat it.”
He added that sectors such as tourism and healthcare also have high potential for job creation and foreign currency generation, and can play a significant role in the country’s economic development.
The Syndicate President further emphasized the need to review economic policies:
“Saving industry and the country requires prudence. Full implementation of Article 44 of the Constitution and strengthening the private sector is a serious obligation. Experience has shown that in times of crisis, it is the private sector that has saved the economy.”
He remarked:
“The bread and livelihood of the people are tied to the performance of the private sector. Therefore, we must strengthen this sector so that the country does not suffer serious harm from every political or economic shock.”
In another part of his speech, Dr. Roghani referred to the necessity of resolving international disputes:
“The economy cannot grow without security. With access to a potential market of 700 million people in neighboring regions, we have a great opportunity for development. But without security and stable relations, we cannot benefit from this capacity.”
Addressing Dr. Larijani, he said:
“You have assumed responsibility at a very sensitive juncture. The decisions you and other officials make today can change the destiny of the country. History will judge today’s performance.”
The Advisor to the President of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, stressing the importance of economic transparency and fighting rent-seeking, added:
“Entrepreneurs in the country support a transparent, rent-free economy and demand an environment where the private sector can play its real role.”
In conclusion, Dr. Roghani emphasized the necessity of negotiation and constructive engagement with the world:
“As history has shown, one cannot remain in conflict with all adversaries forever. Conditions for negotiation must be created while preserving dignity, independence, and national interests. This can be a major step toward resolving economic problems and creating stability in the country.”