If you are thinking of starting an import business or looking for a way to reduce your procurement costs, importing goods from China to Iran is one of the best and least risky options. This lucrative path that thousands of Iranian businessmen have taken is now explained to you step by step in this comprehensive guide. From the reasons why China is attractive to the complete import processes and required documents, everything is here.
📌 It is time to step into the world of international trade right now; just stay with us until the end of this article.
Why import from China? Competitive advantages of Chinese goods for the Iranian market
As the world’s factory, China has been the main supplier of many consumer, industrial and technological goods for many years to various countries, including Iran. But why are Iranian businessmen so interested in importing from China?
Diversity and competitive prices
One of the most important reasons is the low price of Chinese products compared to similar products in other countries. This allows the importer to buy at a lower price and have a higher profit margin.
A huge variety of products
From toys to car parts, industrial equipment, home appliances and clothing, every product you can imagine is produced in China. This unparalleled variety gives importers more choice.
Flexibility in negotiating with manufacturers
Chinese companies are usually very flexible and are willing to negotiate payment terms, packaging, minimum order quantities and even proprietary brands.
The existence of advanced transportation infrastructure
Ports, shipping lines, and international shipping agency offices in China has made the process of transporting goods faster and easier for Iranian businessmen.
Familiarity with the step-by-step steps of importing goods from China to Iran
Although importing from China is attractive, you must be fully familiar with its steps to succeed in this path. Below, we explain the basic steps of importing in simple and practical language:
Choosing the right product
Researching the Iranian market to identify high-demand goods is the first step. This step will help you choose a product that not only has a good sales market but also brings you a good profit.
Finding a reliable supplier
You can contact reliable manufacturers through platforms such as Alibaba or Chinese trade fairs. Be sure to prioritize checking sales records, buyer reviews, and contract terms.
Receiving a proforma invoice
After determining the product, price, quantity, and shipping terms, the supplier issues a proforma invoice. This document is necessary for registering an official order in the Iranian Trade System.
Registering an order in the comprehensive Iranian Trade System
At this stage, you must enter the information about the desired product in the Trade System and obtain the necessary permits. Sometimes, you also need to obtain permits from the Standards Organization, the Ministry of Health, or the Ministry of Industry.
Payment and conclusion of a transportation contract
Upon confirming the order, you must pay the specified amount through a reputable exchange office or bank. Then, a transportation contract is concluded with a forwarding or international transportation company.
Transportation and entry of goods into Iranian customs
After loading and issuing shipping documents, the goods arrive at Iranian customs. At this stage, your documents are reviewed and the clearance process begins.
Clearance of goods and payment of customs duties
After reviewing the documents, evaluating the goods, and paying customs duties, the goods are cleared and delivered to you.
Choosing the right goods for import; What products from China are most profitable?
One of the most profitable aspects of importing is choosing the goods wisely. But what goods from China are most profitable for the Iranian market?
Electronic products and gadgets
From Bluetooth hands-free to CCTV cameras, these categories of goods are always in high demand and have high profits.
Small household appliances
Items such as tea makers, mixers, cordless vacuum cleaners, and other small kitchen appliances are always of interest to Iranian buyers.
Fashionable clothing and accessories
Seasonal clothing, bags and shoes, and accessories for women and men, especially if they have a personalized brand, have a good market.
Industrial and workshop tools
Iranian industrial, construction, and manufacturing workshops always need Chinese tools, as these goods are more affordable than domestic counterparts.
Stationery and toys
One of the least competitive but most in-demand markets in Iran is the Chinese toy and stationery market, especially during the reopening of schools.
Documents required for importing from China; What documents should you prepare?
The import process is almost impossible without complete documents. In this section, we will review the list of documents required to import goods from China to Iran:
Document TypeApplication DescriptionProforma InvoiceProforma invoice from the seller for registering an official orderCommercial InvoiceTax document for purchasing goodsPacking ListExact specifications of the weight and number of items in each packageBill of Lading / Airway BillA shipping document issued by an international shipping companyCertificate of OriginA document indicating the country of manufacture of the goodsStandard certificate (if required) for goods subject to mandatory standardsRequired permits (health, quarantine, energy)Depending on the type of goods, specific permits may be required from different ministries
Types of methods of transporting goods from China to Iran
Comparison of air, sea and rail transportation with the advantages and disadvantages of each method
When your order is ready to be shipped, it is time to choose a transportation method. This decision depends on several factors, including the weight and volume of the item, delivery time, and of course, your budget. Let’s take a look at the more common