Iran is significantly reducing the time required for customs clearance as part of a national programme to simplify foreign trade procedures. The average clearance period has fallen from 143 hours to 73 hours, cutting the waiting time by almost half and bringing the country close to its three-day target set by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance.
According to Hassan Alidousti, acting deputy for planning and international affairs at Iran Customs, the improvement has been driven by several measures, including expanding the share of low-risk goods processed through the green path, strengthening risk assessment systems, introducing digital technologies and updating customs procedures.
The risk management system allows authorities to classify shipments according to their level of risk and apply appropriate controls to each consignment, as reported by Tehran Times, a TV BRICS partner. This approach helps reduce unnecessary inspections while maintaining oversight of goods entering the country.
Iran is also working to improve cooperation between agencies involved in border procedures. More than 20 government bodies participate in trade and border management processes, meaning that delays can occur at different stages and are not always linked directly to customs operations.
To address this issue, authorities are developing coordinated border management mechanisms and promoting seamless transport solutions. These measures are designed to improve interaction between agencies, reduce repeated checks and ensure smoother movement of goods from entry points to final destinations.
Priority is being given to essential goods, including grain, livestock feed, edible oils, medicines and medical equipment. These categories are included in the green path system and receive faster processing. Currently, around 4.5–4.6 million tonnes of essential goods are undergoing customs clearance at ports and border points, with livestock inputs, edible oils and oilseeds accounting for a significant share of the volume.
Officials note that customs clearance times also depend on factors beyond customs procedures, including the issuance of permits, transport availability and foreign currency allocation. The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance is therefore coordinating with the Central Bank of Iran and other relevant institutions to address these issues.
Iranian customs authorities expect further improvements as digital procedures replace manual operations and more shipments become eligible for simplified clearance through the green path. The reforms are aimed at reducing delays at entry points, improving trade flows and creating more efficient conditions for businesses involved in international commerce.