Exports to Iran double in three years

S. Jamaldeen in Tehran

Sri Lanka's exports to Iran has recorded a steady increase both in terms of value and quantity, with exports doubling between 2004 and 2007 while exports in 2007 recorded an increase of 140% in value over the previous year.

The total value of exports to Iran in 2004 was US$ 57.9 Million, which doubled to US$ 117.2 Million in 2007. The value of total exports in 2006 was US$ 84.1 Million.

Tea remains the main export comprising of US$ 107 Million or Rs. 11.8 Billion out of a total export of US$ 117 Million or Rs. 12.9 Billion.

Other products include coconut products, fiberboard, trailers and accessories. The quantity of tea exported to Iran in 2004 was 20,390 Metric Tons, valued at Rs.5,396 Million, while in 2005, it rose to 24,948 M.T. valued at Rs.6,835 Million and rising further in 2006 to 28,100 M.T.

valued at Rs. 7,957 Million and topping 32,223 M.T. in 2007 earning Rs. 11,839 Million.

Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Iran Mr. M. M. Zuhair, disclosed these figures when addressing a delegation of the Sri Lanka Iran Business Council headed by Mr.Nihreer Junaid, President of the Council.

The Ambassador urged the Business Council to take additional measures to promote Sri Lankan exports, particularly a large number of products with ample capacity for exports such as rubber and rubber products, garments, coconut products, such as oil, powder, coir products and other products such as activated carbon, charcoal, fiber, spices and gems.

He told the Council, that according to unofficial figures, another US$ 50 Million worth of Sri Lanka tea comes annually in to Iran brought in unofficially from the UAE.

He said the Council must be vigilant to encourage official imports of tea, while supporting the Chambers and traders who wish to enhance trade ties with Sri Lanka.