Trade relations between Finland and Iran to strengthen

Finland and Iran have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, which is the first step in efforts to facilitate the financing of Finnish companies’ export projects.

For Finland, the memorandum was signed by Executive Vice President Jussi Haarasilta of Finnvera. The signing ceremony took place during the visit to Iran by the President of the Republic Sauli Niinistö.

Haarasilta anticipates that Finnish companies will gradually have better export opportunities to Iran.

“Following the dismantling of economic sanctions, Finnvera has already provided guarantees for trade with Iran. For us to be able to contribute to the financing of increasingly large business deals, both Finland and Iran must show strong commitment. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding is an important step on this path. For this we are glad. Finnvera’s mission is to promote the exports of both small and large Finnish enterprises and to secure a competitive export financing system.”

Haarasilta sees export opportunities for Finnish companies in several industries.

“Cleantech, the bioeconomy and mining technology are good examples of industries important to Iranians where Finns have solid expertise. Infrastructure projects also have potential for Finland,” he assesses.

Haarasilta points out, however, that monetary transactions with Iran still involve challenges.

“An export company planning to do business in Iran should contact the bank and Finnvera as early as possible,” he stresses.

Additional information:
Jussi Haarasilta, tel. +358 29 460 2601

Photo: The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Tehran by Jussi Haarasilta (Finnvera) and Mohammad Khazaee (Organization for Investment, Economic and Technical Assistance of Iran).

Photo credit: Juhani Kandell/Office of the President of the Republic