Foreign Investors Find a Secure Path: Iran Opens Gateway for Gold, Silver, and Platinum

The Cabinet of Ministers, following a joint proposal by the Ministry of Economy and the Central Bank, adopted a five-article decree under the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Act (FIPPA). The move provides a new legal and operational framework for the management and protection of foreign capital in Iran’s precious metals market.

Key Provisions of the Resolution

Streamlined Entry of Gold: Investors may now bring gold into Iran in the form of standard bullion, up to the amount specified in their foreign investment license. Importantly, this process is exempt from prior order registration, though customs procedures remain mandatory. Valuation will be based on internationally recognized sources, with investors receiving official customs clearance certificates.

Transparent Sale Mechanism: Imported gold must be delivered, listed, and traded through Iran’s Currency and Gold Exchange Center or the Iran Mercantile Exchange. Proceeds from sales will be converted into rials and deposited directly into the account of the host enterprise or project owner, ensuring clarity and secure fund flow.

Profit Repatriation Rules: Foreign investors will be permitted to repatriate profits and returns after a minimum of one year from the initial deployment of their capital. Such transfers require approval from the Foreign Investment Board and the Minister of Economy, in compliance with Articles 12 and 17 of the 2002 FIPPA law.

Regulatory Alignment for Past Investments: The decree also covers investors who previously entered Iran with cash or gold bullion and sold outside official exchanges. Their past operations will now be aligned with the new framework, ensuring regulatory consistency and legal protection.

By codifying transparent procedures and profit transfer mechanisms, the Iranian government is signaling its intention to attract and safeguard foreign capital in the precious metals sector. Analysts note that the resolution reduces entry barriers, provides clear legal guarantees, and enhances predictability for international firms seeking exposure to Iran’s lucrative gold and commodity markets.

The policy is expected to boost foreign inflows into Iran’s bullion trade, expand industrial applications of precious metals, and strengthen overall economic activity. For international investors, the measure offers a secure, law-backed gateway to participate in one of the region’s most promising emerging markets.