Iran prepares free-trade zone on Iraq border for operations

Iran is preparing to complete infrastructure work at the Qasr-e Shirin Free Trade and Industrial Zone along its border with Iraq. The zone covers more than 7,220 hectares between the Pirvizhan and Khosravi official border crossings. The area is intended to connect Iranian markets with the Kurdistan Region and the rest of Iraq through a 186-kilometre border stretch. Plans also call for linking the zone to the logistics network, expanding its boundaries to include Qasr-e Shirin city centre, and establishing a single trade centre for export, import and transit operations. Zone executive director Reza Kabadamehr said the project aims to attract large and specialised automotive companies and increase commercial activity in the free zone. The first phase approved 22 companies in May, while a second tender phase to select companies authorised to import vehicles is scheduled for September. Project management is working to demarcate the regulatory boundary and establish basic infrastructure, which officials consider prerequisites for commercial and customs operations. Authorities are seeking to make the zone a principal route for trade with Iraq and create employment opportunities in the border region.