As part of its ongoing series of sector-specific meetings with members, the Iran-Germany Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a group of executives and representatives from the food industry. The meeting was attended by Kasra Emam-Saffari, Deputy Managing Director of the Chamber, and focused on examining the challenges facing businesses in the sector, exchanging views on ways to strengthen cooperation, and identifying new opportunities to expand trade relations between Iran and Germany.
At the beginning of the meeting, Germany’s position as Iran’s first and largest trading partner within the European Union was highlighted, along with the significant potential for cooperation in the food industry. The food sector is an important area of trade between the two countries. Despite Germany’s considerable food import market, Iran’s share remains limited at around 0.03 percent. This highlights the significant potential for expanding exports and strengthening the presence of Iranian companies in the German market.
During the meeting, representatives of the food industry also raised their main concerns and challenges. Banking difficulties and existing restrictions on financial transfer channels were among the key issues discussed. Chamber members emphasized the need for the Chamber to play a more effective role as a bridge between Iranian and German business communities and to help establish mechanisms that can facilitate trade and financial transactions.
Another topic discussed was the potential of Iranians and Iranian economists living in Germany. With their familiarity with the economic and business environments of both countries, they can play an important role in connecting business communities and identifying new opportunities for cooperation. Participants also called for the organization of training programs and the provision of information on the standards and requirements of the German and European Union markets.
Kasra Emam-Saffari, Deputy Managing Director of the Iran-Germany Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted the Chamber’s efforts to strengthen engagement with its members, stating: “The Chamber is working to facilitate members’ access to the services and information they need so that each member can make the most of the available opportunities and potential.”
He also emphasized the importance of providing specialized services to members and creating an effective platform for networking and cooperation among business stakeholders. Regarding company due diligence and credit assessment, Emam-Saffari noted that the Chamber has consistently sought to provide members with the necessary services and information in this area, contributing to greater confidence and facilitating business relations between Iranian and German companies.
At the conclusion of the meeting, participants emphasized the importance of continuing sector-specific meetings with representatives of the food industry, strengthening communication among members, identifying areas of cooperation, and turning the proposals discussed into practical solutions.
It was also agreed that the issues and proposals raised during the meeting would be taken into consideration in the Chamber’s future planning, with the aim of supporting businesses in the food industry and further developing trade and business cooperation between Iran and Germany.
